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Super Mario Sunshine is now available at no additional game-purchase cost to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members who use a Nintendo Switch 2. Nintendo announced the release on August 13, 2026, through the Nintendo GameCube – Nintendo Classics library.
The offer is not available on the original Nintendo Switch, Switch OLED Model, or Switch Lite. It also is not included with the standard Nintendo Switch Online plan. “Free” refers only to the game download for eligible members; the paid Expansion Pack membership is still required.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Super Mario Sunshine (Renewed) | $74.26 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Super Mario 3D All-Stars - Nintendo Switch | $114.45 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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Super Mario Sunshine (Gamecube) (Pre-Played - Game Only) | $64.93 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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Super Mario Sunshine | $49.97 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
Super Mario 3D All-Stars - Nintendo Switch (Renewed) | $133.94 | Buy on Amazon |
What the free Super Mario download includes
The release is Super Mario Sunshine, the GameCube platformer, delivered through Nintendo GameCube – Nintendo Classics. Eligible members can install and play it without buying the game separately. Access remains tied to an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership and a Nintendo Switch 2 system.
Who is eligible
| Requirement | What Nintendo requires |
|---|---|
| Console | Nintendo Switch 2 |
| Membership | Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack |
| Game purchase | No additional purchase for an eligible member |
| Library | Nintendo GameCube – Nintendo Classics |
| Region | Availability and release timing can vary; check the local Nintendo eShop |
A standard Nintendo Switch Online subscription includes Nintendo Classics from NES, Super NES, and Game Boy, but it does not unlock the GameCube catalog. The Expansion Pack adds Nintendo 64, SEGA Genesis, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo GameCube, and Virtual Boy libraries. Nintendo identifies the GameCube library as exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2.
#1 Best Overall
- Disc only. Original case and manual not included. Will come packaged in a generic case.
- This renewed game has been cleaned, tested, and shows minimal wear.
How to download Super Mario Sunshine
- Sign in on a Nintendo Switch 2 with an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership.
- Open Nintendo eShop from the HOME Menu.
- Find the Nintendo Classics library and select Free Download. This opens the relevant game-library page.
- Open Nintendo GameCube – Nintendo Classics after installation.
- Select Super Mario Sunshine and launch it from the library.
If the game does not appear, verify that the console is a Switch 2, the signed-in Nintendo Account has the Expansion Pack entitlement, and the eShop country is the one where the membership was purchased. Nintendo’s access instructions use the Free Download button to reach the library page rather than treating the title as a separately purchased eShop game.
Why a regular Switch cannot access the GameCube release
Nintendo’s support information separates the classic-game catalogs by membership and hardware. NES, Super NES, and Game Boy titles are available through the standard membership, while GameCube titles are part of the Expansion Pack catalog and require Nintendo Switch 2. Owning the original Switch version of a console or subscribing to the standard tier therefore does not meet the requirements for this release.
Rank #2
- Discover (or rediscover) three of Mario’s most memorable adventures all in one package—available on the Nintendo Switch system
- Take these three adventures on the go with the Nintendo Switch system’s handheld or tabletop mode
- Jump into paintings to collect Power Stars and save Princess Peach in the Super Mario 64 game
- Spray away paint-like goop with the help of your water-spouting friend, FLUDD, in the Super Mario Sunshine game
- Travel from planet to planet and power up Rosalina’s Comet Observatory in the Super Mario Galaxy game—motion controls and a two-player Co-Star mode included
Regional availability and timing
Nintendo’s August 13, 2026 announcement establishes the release, but Nintendo advises users to check their local eShop because classic-game schedules can differ by region. The listing shown in one country may appear on a different date, or with different availability, in another. Nintendo Australia’s August 2026 magazine also identifies Super Mario Sunshine as a Nintendo Switch 2 release for Expansion Pack members, providing a separate regional confirmation.
What “free” costs
There is no one-time purchase price for Super Mario Sunshine when the eligibility conditions are met. The cost is the recurring Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership, plus the Nintendo Switch 2 hardware if you do not already own it. Nintendo’s announcement does not state a new standalone purchase price for the GameCube version, and no separate controller or accessory is required.
Rank #3
- When Mario, Peach, and an entourage of Peach's loyal Toad friends set out for a tropical vacation on lovely Isle Delfino, they're in store for much more than a relaxing holiday. A mustachioed maniac has mucked up the entire island, and Mario is accused of committing the crime. Armed with a hi-tech water cannon called FLUDD (Flash Liquidizer Ultra Dousing Device), Mario sets out to clean the island, clear his name, and solve the mystery of the villainous vandal. With new enemies, moves, and
Quick decision guide
- Already have a Switch 2 and Expansion Pack? Open Nintendo eShop and use Free Download to access the GameCube library.
- Have a Switch 2 but only standard Nintendo Switch Online? Upgrade to Expansion Pack before expecting GameCube access.
- Have an older Switch model? This GameCube release is not supported on that hardware; a Switch 2 is required.
- See no listing in eShop? Check your local region’s release timing and confirm the Nintendo Account carrying the membership is signed in.
The Bottom Line
Bottom line: Super Mario Sunshine is included at no extra game-purchase cost for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members playing on Nintendo Switch 2. A standard subscription or an older Switch model is not enough, and local eShop timing may differ.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Does not come with original case or manuals; game cartridge only
- Discover (or rediscover) three of Mario’s most memorable adventures all in one package—available on the Nintendo Switch system
- Take these three adventures on the go with the Nintendo Switch system’s handheld or tabletop mode
- Jump into paintings to collect Power Stars and save Princess Peach in the Super Mario 64 game
- Spray away paint-like goop with the help of your water-spouting friend, FLUDD, in the Super Mario Sunshine game
Rank #4
- Play as Mario and use your water cannon to clean the graffiti and fight back against angry villagers
- Climb walls, run across rooftops, and jump like never before as you wash off the scribbles on walls,
- Explore the massive island setting, completing tasks, and getting clues
- Collect the gold coins and new Sunshine Coins to finish the level and build up the points you need t
- Then get to the bottom of the mystery and find out who's been impersonating Mario!
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
