Nintendo’s upcomingSwitch 2revealed a lot of exciting features at the most recent Nintendo Direct event. A brand-newMario Kartentry, GameChat with screen-sharing, and Nintendo-exclusive FromSoftware title brought the excitement for the console to even greater heights. Even better, the wait for theSwitch 2isn’t going to be much longer, as a June 5 release date has been locked in.
There are a lot of exciting games coming to the Switch 2. From massive hits likeCyberpunk 2077andSplit Fictionto the tease ofHollow Knight: Silksongpotentially releasing this year, the Switch 2’s early roster is shaping up to be strong. All of these game announcements were exciting enough, but for longtime Nintendo fans, the surprising return of some GameCube classics could make the Switch 2 a truly special console for a lot of gamers.
Nintendo’s Switch 2 Embraces the Nostalgic Days of the GameCube
Kirby Air Riders Marks the Return of a Beloved Racing Title
It’s been over20 years sinceKirby Air Ridecame to the GameCube. The blocky console was a bold and fun approach to a new product that many gamers look back on with nostalgia.Kirby Air Ridebrought some fun-filled racing to the console, and the reveal of a sequel caught a lot of longtime Nintendo lovers by surprise. Even better, this marks the firstKirbygame that Masahiro Sakurai has directed since, signaling a long-awaited return to the franchise.
Those who look back on the GameCube days with fondness may not see a full-blown revival of the console, but the impending arrival ofKirby Air Ridersis an exciting return for an iconic title. The GameCube-based announcements didn’t stop there, though. The Switch 2 is adding an extensive GameCube catalog in addition toKirby Air Riders.
Kirby Air Ridershas yet to lock in a release date, but it’s currently on track to launch later this year.
GameCube is Coming to Nintendo Switch Online
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members will be able to accessa library of GameCube titlesin Nintendo Classics. Some of the GameCube’s best titles will be playable once more, marking an exciting time to be a longtime Nintendo lover. The upcoming release of this GameCube roster is now probably one of the strongest reasons to consider a Nintendo Switch Online subscription.
On top of this list of games, Nintendo has confirmed that select titles will have in-game options that enhance the nostalgic vibes, like a retro screen filter and widescreen. Leading up to the Nintendo Direct showcase, one of the biggest questions waswhich games would the Switch 2 offer. Many were expecting exciting launch titles, but the return of beloved hits served as an extra dose of surprise.
For those looking for an even bigger kick of nostalgia, Nintendo has also announced a wireless Switch 2-compatible GameCube controller.
The Switch 2’s GameCube Offerings Are One of the Console’s Strongest Features
Nintendo had a lot of great announcements up its sleeve, although some reveals at the Direct have been more well-received than others. Choices like makingthe Switch 2’s tech demoa paid-for product left fans frustrated, while compelling exclusives likeMario Mart WorldandDonkey Kong Bananzaserved as silver linings.
The GameCube offerings on Nintendo Switch Online are a pleasant surprise. Asthe launch of the Switch 2draws closer, it will be interesting to see how many gamers choose to purchase one because of their love for the GameCube’s heyday.
