Nintendo is expanding its retro library on Nintendo Switch Online in August 2026, bringing Super Mario Sunshine to the GameCube collection on Nintendo Switch 2 alongside two previously unreleased Virtual Boy games, new Mario Paint and Mario Kart icons, and fresh additions to the Classic NES and Game Boy catalogues.
Super Mario Sunshine Leads the GameCube Library Expansion
Nintendo is expanding its growing GameCube library on Nintendo Switch Online. Initially launched for the GameCube in 2002, the tropical adventure sends Mario to Isle Delfino for what was supposed to be a relaxing vacation. Instead, players find themselves framed for covering the island in graffiti by Bowser Jr.
To clean up the mess, players rely on the iconic F.L.U.D.D. water-powered backpack. The gadget introduced distinct movement mechanics to the series, including hovering, jet-powered boosts, and high-speed water dashes. While the game was initially divisive upon its original release due to its unique mechanics and increased difficulty, it has since evolved into a fan favorite and is widely regarded as one of the strongest entries in the franchise.
The title also introduced Bowser Jr. alongside recurring franchise characters like Petey Piranha, Piantas, Cataquacks, and Toadsworth. Aside from a limited release in the 2020 Super Mario 3D All-Stars collection, the GameCube classic has been largely unavailable on modern hardware. Subscribers will be able to play the title starting August 13, 2026, though access requires a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, which is currently exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2.
Unreleased Virtual Boy Classics Make Their Debut
In addition to the GameCube arrival, Nintendo is introducing two previously unreleased Virtual Boy games to the service on August 4, 2026. Originally developed for Nintendo’s ill-fated handheld before being canceled, both D-Hopper and Zero Racers will be playable for the first time.
Zero Racers takes place ten years before the turn of the 30th century in a world where humanity has been forced to live underground and lost access to certain emotions. Players compete in machines on interconnected square ducts, maintaining a specified lap rank and finishing in the top three to advance. Racers can also collect RAPID by flying through Rapid Marks to trigger temporary speed boosts.
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In D-Hopper, players work to reclaim Prince Dorin’s kingdom after prime minister Lexer stages a rebellion in Celestia. After falling deep underground and being rescued by fairies, Prince Dorin must seek out four missing spirits from Faeron. Locating all four spirits allows the prince to transform into a dragon wielding special techniques. To enter the realm of stereoscopic 3D for these Virtual Boy titles, players must slide their console into a dedicated accessory modeled after the original hardware or constructed as a simpler cardboard model, as detailed on Nintendo’s official site.
Fresh Profile Icons and Retro Catalogues
Retro fans can also unlock new profile icons across two classic titles. Throughout August, giving members access to five designs for Mario Paint and six for Mario Kart: Super Circuit. Each icon costs 10 Platinum Points on My Nintendo and requires users to boot up each respective game on their app to unlock them. These icons will remain available until September 7, 2026.
These additions arrive alongside a massive library of classic games across multiple generations. Meanwhile, the Expansion Pack tier opens access to N64, Game Boy Advance, Sega Mega Drive, and Virtual Boy software.
Subscription Tiers and Pricing Options
Access to these retro tiers depends on the chosen membership level. The standard subscription provides cloud saves, game trials, and access to NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries. Upgrading to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack tier unlocks N64, Game Boy Advance, Sega Mega Drive, Virtual Boy games, and select DLC content.
Annual pricing varies by region. In Canada, an annual subscription to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack is available for $69.99, while a 12-month Family Membership supporting up to eight accounts costs $99.99.
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