The Return of GameCube Classics on Nintendo Switch: Why Wario World Is Leading a New Wave of Nostalgia
GameCube Revival: Why 2025 Is the Year of Retro Comebacks
Nintendo has tapped into nostalgia for years, but 2025 marks a major shift: full GameCube classics are finally joining Nintendo Switch Online, and Wario World is the headliner. Long rumoured and frequently requested by fans, GameCube titles have been one of the most notable gaps in the Switch’s retro catalogue. Their arrival not only satisfies long-standing player demand but also positions Nintendo to bridge generations of players as the Switch winds down and the Switch 2 era rises.
With Wario World making the jump to the Nintendo Switch Online library, fans are hopeful this signals a steady pipeline of GameCube greats — from Super Mario Sunshine to F-Zero GX to the beloved Metroid Prime series. Nintendo rarely moves without intention, and choosing Wario World as the first major GameCube revival suggests a strategic combination of charm, nostalgia, and accessibility.
Why Wario World Is the Perfect GameCube Title to Bring Back
Released in 2003, Wario World was always considered the quirky cousin of Nintendo platformers. It combined beat-’em-up action, puzzle elements, and Wario’s signature greedy personality, making it one of the era’s most distinct Nintendo titles. Unlike the sprawling platformers of its time, Wario World excelled in short bursts of chaotic, treasure-filled fun — which happens to fit perfectly with today’s handheld-heavy gaming habits.
The Switch’s portability gives Wario World new life. Its bite-sized levels make it ideal for short sessions, while its unique tone offers something fresh for younger players discovering Wario for the first time. For older gamers, it’s a welcome return to one of the GameCube’s hidden gems.
How GameCube Titles Enhance the Nintendo Switch Library
The arrival of GameCube classics marks a major milestone in Nintendo’s approach to digital preservation. Until now, many GameCube titles have been difficult to access legally, with physical copies becoming increasingly rare. Bringing these games to Switch Online offers:
• Modern accessibility: No need for old hardware or expensive used games.
• Preservation of Nintendo history: Key titles can reach new demographics.
• Expanded value for NSO subscribers: More generations = better subscription incentives.
• Cross-generational play: Parents can now show their GameCube favourites to their children.
GameCube titles also fill the gap between 2D classics and the Wii era, rounding out the Switch Online ecosystem and positioning Nintendo as one of the strongest digital archivists among major gaming companies.
What Other GameCube Titles Players Are Hoping to See Next
Nintendo hasn’t confirmed the full list, but fans are already buzzing with predictions. Most-requested classics include:
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The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker
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Super Mario Sunshine
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Luigi’s Mansion
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Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door
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Metroid Prime
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Animal Crossing (the original)
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F-Zero GX
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Mario Kart: Double Dash!!
If Wario World is the test case and subscriber engagement is high, it’s almost certain Nintendo will open the floodgates.
Why This Matters for the Future of Switch and Switch 2
With Switch 2 expected to emphasise backward compatibility, Nintendo is laying groundwork early. Getting players emotionally reconnected with older titles boosts interest in future remasters, rereleases, and enhanced ports on new hardware.
Nostalgia is powerful — but nostalgia done well is an unbeatable business strategy.
