Nintendo just dropped a bombshell during its latest "Pokémon Presents" livestream: "Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness" is officially hitting the Nintendo Switch 2's GameCube library next month! It's joining the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription service, exclusively for Switch 2 players.
Originally launched on the Nintendo GameCube back on August 4, 2005, this title is a spin-off RPG in the Pokémon series. It's set in the Orre region, sharing its world with "Pokémon Colosseum." Players are tasked with battling Shadow Pokémon – creatures corrupted by dark forces – and using a "Snag Machine" to capture them, then working to purify their hearts. There are a whopping 83 Shadow Pokémon to snag and save throughout the game!
Interestingly, "Pokémon Colosseum," which was previously teased alongside "XD" for the service, wasn't mentioned in this latest livestream. However, Nintendo has confirmed that more GameCube classics are still on the way, including fan-favorites like "Super Mario Sunshine," though specific release dates are still under wraps.
Assuming no other titles jump the queue, "Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness" will be the ninth GameCube title to hit the Switch Online library. To dive into these GameCube gems, you'll need a subscription to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. This tier also grants access to Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Mega Drive games, with annual memberships starting at $49.99.