Nintendo will be adding GameCube to its lineup of classic consoles available through Switch Online.
The only issue is that it'll be exclusive to Expansion Pass subscribers on Nintendo Switch 2.
A few weeks ago, we brought you the rumour that GameCube games could be heading to Switch Online and now we have official confirmation – Nintendo will be adding emulation as part of the Expansion Pass.
However, before you get too excited, only those with a new [Nintendo Switch 2](https://www.t3.com/us/tag/nintendo-switch-2) will be able to play them.
We're not sure exactly why that is – maybe the more powerful processor is needed to render the games more accurately, but then I've been able to play upscaled GameCube titles on a Raspberry Pi 4 for years, so who knows?
Still, it's great that we're getting to replay some true classics at last.
Announced during the [Nintendo Switch 2 Direct presentation](https://www.t3.com/tech/gaming/how-to-watch-the-nintendo-switch-2-direct-and-what-to-expect), the service will launch with several much-requested releases, including _The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker_, _Soul Calibur II_, _F-Zero GX_, _Super Mario Sunshin_e, Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance, _Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness_, _Super Mario Strikers_, _Chibi-Robo_, _Luigi’s Mansion_, and _Pokémon Colosseum_.
There will also be a recreated, wireless version of the classic Nintendo GameCube controller that'll also include the Chat button that's needed to use the Switch 2's new community features.
That will launch the same day as the Nintendo Switch 2 – 5 June 2025 – but is not needed to play the new library of games. You'll be able to use the Joy-Cons or new Pro Controller, as you'll be able to map the controls to whichever buttons you want.
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
Hopefully, we'll get a whole host of other GameCube classics rapidly – _1080° Avalanche_ and _Wave Race: Blue Storm_ would be next on my list. Oh, and _Star Wars Rogue Squadron II_: _Rogue Leader_ wouldn't go amiss – that's notoriously difficult to emulate.