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Super Mario Sunshine Joins Nintendo Switch Online GameCube Library
Super Mario Sunshine arrives on the Nintendo Switch Online GameCube library on August 13. Discover details about the release, requirements, and new Virtual Boy updates.
Table of Contents
Nintendo has announced that the GameCube classic Super Mario Sunshine will be added to the Nintendo GameCube - Nintendo Classics library on August 13, 2026. This highly anticipated addition comes after last year's reveal that GameCube titles would be available for Switch 2 owners.
Which Membership Do You Need?
- Console: Only playable on Nintendo Switch 2 (not available on Switch 1)
- Membership: Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack tier required
- Price: Expansion Pack is 49.99 USD per year, standard NSO is 19.99 USD per year
The Expansion Pack membership also gives you access to GameCube, Game Boy Advance, N64, Virtual Boy, and Sega Mega Drive libraries, plus DLC and Switch 2 upgrades for select major Nintendo games.
This Version Differs from 3D All-Stars
This release is pure emulation and does not include the visual enhancements found in the Super Mario 3D All-Stars collection. The trailer being shown entirely in 4:3 aspect ratio confirms this. Interestingly, since 3D All-Stars is no longer available, Switch 1 owners technically had access to a more polished version for the past six years, while Switch 2 players are now getting a more original, unrefined experience.
About the Game
Super Mario Sunshine was released exclusively for GameCube in 2002 as the second 3D entry in the series after Super Mario 64. Mario is accused of polluting Isle Delfino during his vacation and must clean up the island using the FLUDD water device. The game sold over five million copies at launch and scored 92 on Metacritic. While this is lower compared to other 3D Mario titles, it was still one of the best games of 2002.
Other Updates Coming the Same Day
- D-Hopper and Zero Racers will arrive in the Virtual Boy library on August 4, accessible on both NSO tiers (Switch and Switch 2)
- Zero Racers is an F-Zero inspired game, completed in 1996 but never released due to the Virtual Boy's commercial failure
- A new screen color filter customization feature will also be added to the Virtual Boy app on the same day
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play Super Mario Sunshine on Switch 1?
No, this version is exclusive to Switch 2. Switch 1 users cannot access the GameCube library.
Can I play with a standard NSO membership?
No, GameCube titles are only included with the Expansion Pack membership. The standard NSO plan is not sufficient.
Do I need the Expansion Pack to play D-Hopper and Zero Racers?
No, these two Virtual Boy games are available to both standard NSO and Expansion Pack members.
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