Xbox Series X just got playable Nintendo GameCube games before Switch

Nintendo GameCube games can now be played on Xbox consoles before they’re available on the Nintendo Switch 2.

Ask nearly any Nintendo Switch fan and they’ll tell you how long they’ve waited for Nintendo GameCube games to be available on the system, and not just the odd remaster like Metroid Prime; I'm talking the full library.

Fortunately, their wish was granted as GameCube games will be launching on Nintendo Switch Online alongside the Nintendo Switch 2.

Before then though, it might surprise you to learn Nintendo GameCube games are actually playable on current-gen Xbox consoles, but obviously not through official means.

This is, of course, possible though modding as Xbox consoles are surprisingly receptive to various emulators much like a PC. It makes sense as modern consoles are slowly turning into PCs anyway.

The Dolphin via RetroArch emulator can now be installed onto your Xbox console, allowing you to play loads of GameCube games like The Legend Of Zelda: The Wind Waker, Super Mario Sunshine, and Metroid Prime and its sequel.

Be warned though, while the act of emulation itself is not illegal, downloading ROMs for these games falls under piracy, and to get around this, you’ll need to legally own the games you’re wanting to play.

You should also be wary of the impact emulation could have on your Xbox console, as while Xbox Series Xs are powerful pieces of hardware, they’re obviously not designed with emulators in mind, so play at your own risk.

Modding your Xbox while it’s online too can result in a ban to your account, so that’s another thing to consider.

To play Nintendo GameCube games on a modern console without any fuss, you’ll want to wait until the Nintendo Switch 2 drops in June, provided you have an active subscription to Nintendo Switch Online.