Super Mario Sunshine arrives on Switch 2

Mario’s Sunshine Lands on Switch 2, Bringing Classic Fun Back to Life

The nostalgia factor just hit a new high for Nintendo fans. After years of anticipation, the beloved platformer Super Mario Sunshine has finally made its way into the Nintendo Switch Online GameCube Classics collection available on the Switch 2 console. While this addition was one of the slower entries from the initial wave of announced GameCube games, it is a massive win for the gaming community.

Super Mario Sunshine isn’t just another entry; it holds a special place in the franchise history. It stands as the second major 3D platformer following the legendary Super Mario 64, cementing its status as a fan favorite thanks to its unique setting and vibrant, chaotic mechanics. Although some players might find the camera controls a little demanding, the sheer joy of exploring Sunshine remains unmatched.

This latest addition is part of an unfolding history of classics being brought to the modern era. Nintendo has been slowly rolling out the initial GameCube line-up, and now with Sunshine joining the party, the collection is growing. Titles like Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance, Soul Calibur 2, Luigi’s Mansion, and Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness have already joined the party. The collection is now nearing completion.

However, one major title from that original list remains elusive: Pokémon Colosseum. While fans are eagerly awaiting its arrival, the rollout has been quite gradual. With such a slow pace, it is possible this highly anticipated game might not arrive until 2027.

For those who want to dive into the history of GameCube gaming immediately, there’s still a way in. Although the full collection resides on the Switch 2, players can still experience Super Mario Sunshine on their original Switch console. This is made possible through the release of Super Mario 3D All Stars, a limited-time offering that is now available on the second-hand market.

Whether you choose to explore the rich history via the next-gen Switch 2 or revisit Sunshine on an older system, the adventure continues. It’s a testament to Nintendo’s commitment to bringing these classic titles—and their vibrant memories—to new generations of players.