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Most Wanted Gamecube Games For Nintendo Switch 2

Gamecube was recently introduced as a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive feature for Nintendo Switch Online, meaning you can now access a small selection of Gamecube games on your Switch 2. The Gamecube library is full of great games, and today I want to run down my most wanted Gamecube games that Nintendo could add to Nintendo Classics.

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So far we have Wind Waker, F-Zero GX and Soul Caliber 2 – all very good games, but Nintendo has a great catalogue to choose from. We’re also getting Mario Strikers in the not too distant future, which will be a nice addtion, however, let’s get into what else Nintendo could add to their Gamecube selection on Nintendo Classics.

WarioWare Inc Mega Party Games

If you’ve never tried a WarioWare game, WarioWare, Inc.: Mega Party Games! is the perfect introduction. The concept is simple but addictive: Wario, now reimagined as a quirky, over-the-top game developer, unleashes a barrage of over 200 “microgames”—fast-paced, bite-sized challenges you must complete in just a few seconds. These microgames come at you in rapid, random succession and span everything from nostalgic NES-style Zelda and Mario moments to offbeat anime gags (with plenty of nose-picking thrown in). While often brushed off as a GameCube port of the original GBA title, Mega Party Games! brings something crucial to the table: a brilliantly fun multiplayer mode. It remains the gold standard for WarioWare multiplayer, with the Wii’s WarioWare: Smooth Moves close behind.

Luigi’s Mansion

The original Luigi’s Mansion struck a perfect balance between spooky atmosphere and lighthearted charm, thanks in large part to its hilariously frightened hero, Luigi. Its ghost-hunting gameplay offered a satisfying and engaging loop, making it clear why Luigi’s eerie adventure has grown into a lasting and beloved franchise.

Metroid Prime 2: Echoes

Metroid Prime 2: Echoes expands on the haunting 3D worlds introduced in the original Metroid Prime, continuing Samus’s journey in first-person on a mysterious new planet divided by light and shadow—evoking strong Link to the Past vibes. Most notably, Echoes introduced Samus’s fiercest adversary yet: a dark, mirror version of herself known as Dark Samus. The sequel also broadened the series’ universe, offering players a deeper glimpse into the Federation and challenging Samus with alien threats beyond just Metroids and Space Pirates, all within a richly diverse and captivating world.

Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance

Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance marked the series’ debut on a home console in the West, blending intricate 3D maps with stunning 2D artwork and detailed character portraits. Its missions offered a wide variety of tactical challenges, from stealthy prison escapes to intense castle sieges. Unlike many other entries that focused on noble lords, Path of Radiance told the story through the eyes of Ike, a bold and straightforward mercenary caught in a complex war. The game’s narrative thoughtfully tackled themes like prejudice between humans and the shape-shifting laguz, political intrigue, wartime propaganda, and even slavery. Plus, players could carry their progress over to the Wii sequel, Radiant Dawn, giving their army a powerful head start in the next chapter of the saga.

Mario Kart: Double Dash!!

Mario Kart: Double Dash has firmly established itself as the ultimate couch co-op experience by introducing a brand-new way to race—with two players sharing control of a single kart.

With one player focused solely on using items both offensively and defensively from the passenger seat, the driver can concentrate on speed and timing, swapping positions strategically to make the most of each character’s unique items. Beyond its innovative two-person mechanic, Double Dash is packed with unforgettable tracks that keep players coming back, especially the chaotic, endlessly replayable Baby Park.

Star Wars Rogue Squadron 2: Rogue Leader

Rogue Squadron 2 was unquestionably the graphical highlight of the GameCube at launch and still stands as one of the system’s most visually impressive titles. It builds on everything that made the original N64 Star Wars game great, cranking up both the intensity and visual detail. Playing through the opening Death Star mission feels as close as you can get to stepping right into a Star Wars film.

Super Mario Sunshine

A well-deserved break from the Mushroom Kingdom takes Mario to a vibrant tropical paradise, where familiar foes get quirky twists (hello, gooey Piranha Plants) and new gameplay shines thanks to F.L.U.D.D. More than just a character, F.L.U.D.D is a backpack Mario wears—a mix of water gun and jetpack—that completely changes the way you play. It opens up fresh possibilities for creative combat and platforming, making Super Mario Sunshine the perfect blend of classic Mario fun and innovative new mechanics. Learning to master F.L.U.D.D also makes the few levels without it feel especially tough—and a refreshing challenge for platforming purists. From Blooper surfing to exploring theme parks, Sunshine delivers a memorable, joyful experience from start to finish. It’s one of the franchise’s best entries and remains a blast to play today—especially now that it’s available on Switch through the Super Mario 3D All-Stars collection.

Animal Crossing

This relaxed, low-pressure town simulator, filled with talking animal neighbors, customizable furniture, and wardrobe options, instantly won over players of all ages on the Nintendo GameCube. It marked the beginning of Animal Crossing’s rise to becoming one of the most beloved and recognizable gaming franchises worldwide. Meanwhile, skeptics used to more action-packed games often asked, “But what do you actually DO in Animal Crossing?” The answer: not much—and that’s exactly the point. Animal Crossing never punishes or pressures you (except for the occasional scolding from Mr. Resetti). Instead, it gently encourages you to fish, decorate your home and town, and simply unwind at your own pace. It’s a charming experience—even if it’s 2:00 AM in-game, everyone’s asleep, and your character is still shaking trees for loose change like a true night owl.

The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess

Twilight Princess took a darker, more mature turn for the Zelda series, both in its visuals and storytelling. Packed with cinematic flair, it boasts some of the most creative dungeons and bosses in the franchise. The standout feature—Link’s ability to fight and explore in wolf form—is made even better by Midna, his witty and unforgettable companion, who easily ranks as one of the greatest sidekicks in gaming history.

Super Smash Bros. Melee

For many fans, Super Smash Bros. Melee stands as the ultimate entry in the Smash Bros. series—and it’s easy to see why. Melee has a distinct feel that sets it apart from every other game in the franchise. Characters move with a satisfying weight, a wealth of advanced techniques reshapes gameplay at the highest levels, and some fighters simply shine more in their Melee versions. Regardless of how it stacks up against other Smash Bros. titles, there’s no denying that Melee remains one of the most influential fighting games ever released on the system.

Let me know what you think in the comments and what other gamecube games you want to see! 

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