Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness, the much-loved Nintendo GameCube classic, is officially set to launch on Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) in March 2026.
The news was revealed during today's Pokémon Presents presentation, confirming the game's return as part of Nintendo's continued commitment to bringing legacy titles to their latest hardware platforms. Originally released in 2005 for the GameCube, Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness developed a strong cult following over the past two decades.
The RPG, known for its darker narrative and unique mechanics, expanded upon features introduced in its predecessor, Pokémon Colosseum.
While contemporaneous critics noted the game's reuse of certain elements from Colosseum, fans praised Pokémon XD for weaving these into a more traditional Pokémon adventure, complete with extensive story progression and classic RPG elements. With the upcoming addition to the Nintendo Switch Online library, Pokémon XD marks a significant milestone.
It's one of the first GameCube-era Pokémon titles making the transition to the Switch family of systems, highlighting Nintendo's dedication to preserving and celebrating its gaming legacy.
As the Switch 2 approaches, the inclusion of Pokémon XD continues to expand the reach of retro gaming to a new generation and long-time fans alike. Nintendo has not specified an exact release date beyond the March 2026 window.
This adheres to the company's usual pattern, as Nintendo frequently rolls out new NSO library additions without advance notice.
Players should stay tuned to official Nintendo channels and the eShop for further updates on the launch. Since its original debut, Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness has been highly requested by fans for re-release on modern platforms.
Its addition to Nintendo Switch Online ensures both veterans and new audiences can experience the title's distinctive story, Shadow Pokémon battle system, and signature visuals—now enhanced by modern hardware capabilities. This announcement follows other major Pokémon-related news, including updates for upcoming releases such as Pokémon Winds and Waves, as well as new collectibles from Japan's Pokémon Center for the 30th anniversary celebration.
The expanded presence of Pokémon and classic Nintendo titles on the Switch platform demonstrates a robust strategy, providing value both to nostalgic players and the franchise's growing audience. For the latest updates on Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness, Nintendo Switch Online offerings, and more Nintendo news, follow our coverage as the March 2026 launch approaches.
The news was revealed during today's Pokémon Presents presentation, confirming the game's return as part of Nintendo's continued commitment to bringing legacy titles to their latest hardware platforms. Originally released in 2005 for the GameCube, Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness developed a strong cult following over the past two decades.
The RPG, known for its darker narrative and unique mechanics, expanded upon features introduced in its predecessor, Pokémon Colosseum.
While contemporaneous critics noted the game's reuse of certain elements from Colosseum, fans praised Pokémon XD for weaving these into a more traditional Pokémon adventure, complete with extensive story progression and classic RPG elements. With the upcoming addition to the Nintendo Switch Online library, Pokémon XD marks a significant milestone.
It's one of the first GameCube-era Pokémon titles making the transition to the Switch family of systems, highlighting Nintendo's dedication to preserving and celebrating its gaming legacy.
As the Switch 2 approaches, the inclusion of Pokémon XD continues to expand the reach of retro gaming to a new generation and long-time fans alike. Nintendo has not specified an exact release date beyond the March 2026 window.
This adheres to the company's usual pattern, as Nintendo frequently rolls out new NSO library additions without advance notice.
Players should stay tuned to official Nintendo channels and the eShop for further updates on the launch. Since its original debut, Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness has been highly requested by fans for re-release on modern platforms.
Its addition to Nintendo Switch Online ensures both veterans and new audiences can experience the title's distinctive story, Shadow Pokémon battle system, and signature visuals—now enhanced by modern hardware capabilities. This announcement follows other major Pokémon-related news, including updates for upcoming releases such as Pokémon Winds and Waves, as well as new collectibles from Japan's Pokémon Center for the 30th anniversary celebration.
The expanded presence of Pokémon and classic Nintendo titles on the Switch platform demonstrates a robust strategy, providing value both to nostalgic players and the franchise's growing audience. For the latest updates on Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness, Nintendo Switch Online offerings, and more Nintendo news, follow our coverage as the March 2026 launch approaches.
