Get ready to dust off your overalls and sharpen your garlic breath, because Nintendo just dropped a bombshell for Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers: Wario World, the beloved GameCube gem, is now available to play! But here's where it gets exciting: this isn't just any port—it's Wario's only 3D platformer, developed by the legendary Japanese studio Treasure, the masterminds behind classics like Gunstar Heroes and Sin and Punishment. Originally released in 2003, Wario World lets you unleash the greedy anti-hero on a quest for vengeance against a cursed black jewel that's stolen his treasure and warped his castle. Along the way, you'll smash enemies, collect coins, rescue Spritelings, and master Wario's signature moves like the Wild Swing-Ding and Piledriver—moves that double as both attacks and trap-clearing tools. And this is the part most people miss: Wario World isn’t just a mindless romp; it’s a cleverly designed platformer that rewards exploration and skill. Japan got the same treat this week, and with screenshots from Nintendo’s Japanese website, it’s clear this release is a love letter to GameCube nostalgia. Since launching the GameCube ‘Nintendo Classics’ service in June, Nintendo has been on a roll, adding fan favorites like Super Mario Strikers, Luigi’s Mansion, and Chibi-Robo to the library, joining the likes of F-Zero GX and The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker. But here’s where it gets controversial: while the lineup is impressive, some fans are already debating which titles should come next. Nintendo has teased Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance and Pokémon Colosseum, but what about Metroid Prime or Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door? Is Nintendo moving fast enough to satisfy fans, or are they holding back the big hitters? Let us know in the comments—did you play Wario World back in the GameCube days, or are you diving in for the first time on Switch? Either way, this release is a reminder of why Wario’s garlic-fueled antics remain timeless. Liam Doolan, a seasoned gaming journalist with over 15 years of experience, brings you this update, blending his passion for iconic characters with a keen eye for what makes gaming great. Follow him on Bluesky for more insights and join the conversation!
