Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness is among the nine GameCube games available on Nintendo Switch 2 through Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, Pokémon Colosseum is on the way

Big news for Pokémon fans and collectors alike! Nintendo has just confirmed that Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness is among the initial nine GameCube titles launching on the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, accessible via the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. Even more thrilling, Pokémon Colosseum has been teased as 'on the way,' promising a full dose of these beloved Gen III spin-off RPGs for a new generation of players and nostalgic veterans.

What This Means for Collectors

This announcement sends ripples through the Pokémon TCG collecting community. The reintroduction of Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness and Pokémon Colosseum on a modern console is poised to ignite a surge of interest in the Pokémon from these iconic GameCube titles.

Expect to see renewed demand for cards featuring fan-favorite Pokémon prominent in these games, particularly those from the EX Series era (2003-2007) – think sets like EX Ruby & Sapphire, EX Sandstorm, EX Dragon, EX Team Magma vs Team Aqua, and EX Hidden Legends. Key Pokémon like Lugia, Snorlax, Zapdos, and Articuno, which played significant roles as Shadow Pokémon in XD, could see increased attention. The unique concept of 'Shadow Pokémon' itself might spark interest in cards depicting these Pokémon, or even in any promotional material related to the GameCube games.

Collectors who remember these games fondly might be inspired to revisit their old binders, searching for cards that resonate with their gameplay experience. Similarly, a new wave of players discovering these titles for the first time on the Switch 2 could develop an appreciation for the TCG cards featuring these Pokémon, driving up demand for both raw and graded specimens. This is a prime example of how video game releases directly influence the TCG market, creating new opportunities for collectors and investors.

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