Wario World Joins Nintendo Switch Online: GameCube Classic Finally Returns After 22 Years

Image via Nintendo/Treasure

Nintendo has officially announced that Wario World is now part of the expanding selection of retro games available via Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. This marks the game's first re-release since its initial launch in 2003 on the Nintendo GameCube.

The fan-loved action platformer was added to the service today, making it the seventh GameCube title available on the Switch 2 for Expansion Pack members. For longtime Nintendo fans, this update represents a significant milestone, bringing back one of Wario's most distinctive experiences with fresh life.

A Long-Awaited Comeback for a GameCube Cult Classic

Created by the famous game studio Treasure, which made popular games such as Gunstar Heroes, Ikaruga, and Radiant Silvergun, Wario World combines beat-'em-up fighting with 3D platforming. The game's story centers around Wario as he fights the Black Jewel, a dark gem that has stolen his treasure and taken over his castle. Players get to explore four unique worlds:

• Excitement Central

• Spooktastic World

• Thrillsville

• Sparkle Land

As Wario travels through the game, he needs to save 40 Spritelings. The number of Spritelings he rescues determines which of the game's six endings the player gets. The more Spritelings Wario saves, the more impressive and larger his rebuilt castle becomes.

A Game Praised for Fun, Criticised for Length

When it first came out, Wario World got good reviews for its creative gameplay, fun fights, and the usual charm that Treasure games are known for. But some critics also mentioned that the game was too short, comparing it to "a platforming version of Luigi's Mansion."

Even though it's not very long, the game has stayed popular for twenty years, which makes this new release a nice treat for people who miss the old days and also for those playing it for the first time.

Current Lineup: All GameCube Games on Switch Online

With Wario World’s arrival, Nintendo Switch Online’s GameCube library now includes:

• Chibi-Robo

• F-Zero GX

• The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker

• Luigi’s Mansion

• Soulcalibur II

• Super Mario Strikers

• Wario World

These titles are available exclusively for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members using the Switch 2.

A Promising Sign for Future GameCube Releases

Nintendo's ongoing efforts to grow its GameCube library show a clear dedication to keeping classic titles available. As fan interest keeps rising, the return of Wario World could be the beginning of more cherished GameCube games coming to Nintendo Switch Online in the near future.