Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness Returns to Nintendo GameCube – Nintendo Classics in July

Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness, the cult-favorite RPG originally launched on the Nintendo GameCube in 2005, is officially making its return.

The Pokémon Company International revealed during today’s Pokémon Presents showcase that the game will be available through the Nintendo GameCube – Nintendo Classics platform starting next month.

This notable announcement brings one of the franchise’s beloved entries back into the spotlight, inviting both longtime fans and newcomers to experience its unique story and gameplay on modern hardware. Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness was first released by The Pokémon Company and developed in collaboration with Genius Sonority.

The title became well known for its darker narrative, introducing Shadow Pokémon and the Cipher organization, setting it apart from the mainline Pokémon series on handheld systems.

The game’s unique mechanics, memorable story, and faithful translation of 3D Pokémon battles to the home console helped cement its status as a classic among Pokémon enthusiasts. In today’s official presentation, representatives from The Pokémon Company International highlighted the enduring fan demand for Gale of Darkness, stating that bringing this adventure to Nintendo GameCube – Nintendo Classics is a way to honor the game’s legacy and make it accessible for new generations.

One spokesperson conveyed that the company is committed to "preserving classic Pokémon experiences and allowing a broader audience to enjoy them once more." This re-release is also significant for game preservation efforts, as physical copies of Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness have become rare and increasingly expensive on secondary markets.

Making the title available through Nintendo Classics addresses long-standing calls from the community for better access to historic Pokémon games. The new launch will be available exclusively via the Nintendo GameCube – Nintendo Classics platform, with additional details—such as pricing and download instructions—to be revealed closer to release.

This follows recent trends where Nintendo has brought classic favorites to newer systems via subscription or digital storefronts, further enriching the Nintendo Switch and related ecosystems. Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness holds a special place in the franchise's history.

As the roster of classic Pokémon titles available on modern platforms continues to grow, this announcement underscores The Pokémon Company’s dedication to its legacy.

Fans eager to relive Cipher’s sinister plot and purify Shadow Pokémon on the Nintendo GameCube – Nintendo Classics can mark their calendars for the game’s highly anticipated arrival next month.

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