Nobody saw it coming. On December 11, 2025, Nintendo of America released a trailer without fanfare revealing that Wario Worldcult GameCube game, was now available on Nintendo Switch 2 via Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. And no, it’s not a paid remaster: it’s a free bonus, immediately accessible to subscribers.
This practice, known as “shadow drops”becomes a Nintendo specialty for creating surprise. And in this specific case, it works wonderfully. The game, originally released in 2003, returns in a version faithful to the original, at no additional cost. A strategy which considerably strengthens the appeal of the NSO subscription.
A little-known classic, but loved by fans
Upon its release, Wario World was not unanimous. Deemed too short, too different from the Mario universe, it was received lukewarmly. However, he has managed to conquer a loyal fan base who see in him a refreshing UFO from the Nintendo catalog.
On Reddit, the reactions were not long in coming. User Cutcutman explains: “This game is vastly underrated and one of the best platformers on the GameCube. I know many love Warioland, but this is my favorite Wario game and I would love to see a sequel!”
Another player, Nayko214, agrees: “A really underrated game. Could be better, but still had fun. Glad it’s here. Now make a new one!” The return of the title could well revive interest around the Wario license and give Nintendo ideas for the future.
A short lifespan which becomes an advantage
At the time, the main criticism against Wario World was its lifespan of approximately 5 hours. A major flaw when you had to buy the full price game.
But today, as part of a subscriptionthis brevity becomes an asset. The experience is consumed quickly, like a fun break between two longer games. Dynamic, intense, the title offers a rhythmic adventure, ideal for a weekend or a free evening. As the source article sums it up perfectly:
“Don’t expect a 40-hour epic. Instead, expect an afternoon of pure chaos, and you’ll come away completely satisfied.”
How to play Wario World for free on Switch 2
For the curious who wish to test this classic, here is the procedure to follow:
- Have an active subscription Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack
- Launch the application GameCube on Switch 2
- Select Wario World in the list, then click on “Download”
And that’s it. No additional purchase is required. This gift could well be just the beginning, Nintendo seeming to test the reception of players before deploying other surprises from the GameCube catalog.