Super Mario Sunshine will join the Nintendo GameCube – Nintendo Classics catalog on August 13, 2026. The update will be preceded on August 4 by D-HOPPER and ZERO RACERS entering the Virtual Boy – Nintendo Classics app. The three additions expand the historical selection available to Nintendo Switch Online members, with Mario’s platforming adventure serving as the month’s biggest release alongside two returning Virtual Boy titles.
Originally released for GameCube in 2002, Super Mario Sunshine was the second main 3D entry in the series after Super Mario 64. The story sends Mario, Peach, and the Toads to Isle Delfino for a vacation, only for a figure resembling Mario to cover the island in toxic goop. Mistaken for the culprit, Mario is ordered to clean the island and recover the missing Shine Sprites.
The adventure is defined by FLUDD, a water-powered device used to clear pollution, fight enemies, uncover secrets, and expand Mario’s movement options. Its different nozzles allow him to hover, move quickly across surfaces, and reach otherwise inaccessible areas. Progression offers some freedom in how missions are approached across Delfino Plaza and seven main locations, while Yoshi returns as a rideable companion whose abilities change depending on the fruit he eats.
Super Mario Sunshine previously returned on Switch in 2020 as part of Super Mario 3D All-Stars, alongside Super Mario 64 and Super Mario Galaxy. Its Nintendo Classics release now provides another route back to Isle Delfino, arriving in the same month as D-HOPPER and ZERO RACERS for the separate Virtual Boy collection.
