Super Mario Strikers — known as Mario Smash Football in Europe — arrives on the Nintendo Switch 2's Nintendo Switch Online GameCube lineup next week. It marks the first addition to the library since the Switch 2 launched earlier this month.
Nintendo Switch Online is the subscription service powering Nintendo's hybrid console, delivering online multiplayer and access to a vast catalog of classic games. Subscribers can enjoy titles spanning four decades of Nintendo history, including NES, SNES, Game Boy, Nintendo 64, and the recently added GameCube collection. A complimentary seven-day trial offers newcomers a chance to experience the service.
The current GameCube selection features The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-Zero GX, and Soulcalibur 2. Upcoming additions reportedly include Super Mario Sunshine, Luigi's Mansion, Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness, and other favorites.
"Prepare for high-octane soccer action as Mario and crew bring their signature chaos to the pitch," Nintendo announced. "This enhanced version of the 2005 GameCube classic maintains its blistering pace while introducing newcomers to its strategic Super Strike mechanic - a powerful shot worth two goals. Master the simple-yet-deep controls and experience classic Mario sports mayhem with shells, mushrooms, and more power-ups. Available exclusively for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers on Nintendo Switch 2!"
IGN originally scored Super Mario Strikers as "Good" upon its 2008 release — our review noted: "Nintendo reinvents soccer gaming with Super Mario Strikers, delivering a uniquely chaotic take on the sport unlike anything before."
For ultimate throwback sessions, Nintendo offers an officially licensed GameCube controller replica that perfectly complements these classic experiences.
The Nintendo Switch 2 continues its strong launch momentum with 3.5 million units sold, though recent sales data reveals varied performance for third-party titles compared to Nintendo's own releases.
In IGN's Nintendo Switch 2 review (7/10), we concluded: "While delivering essential upgrades for longtime Switch owners, this iterative sequel ultimately feels more like catching up than innovating — akin to receiving a necessary but predictable smartphone upgrade after years of waiting."
