2001
NINTENDO

GAMECUBE

MESA
GAMECUBE

📜 History & Legacy

The Nintendo GameCube, released in 2001, marked Nintendo's entry into the sixth generation of video game consoles, competing against the Sony PlayStation 2 and the Microsoft Xbox. Departing from cartridges, the GameCube utilized a proprietary miniDVD format for its games. Its distinctive cube-like design and vibrant color options, particularly the Indigo and Jet Black models, made it instantly recognizable. Despite not achieving the same sales success as its predecessor, the Nintendo 64, the GameCube is fondly remembered for its innovative controller design, robust first-party titles, and strong support for multiplayer experiences.

While the GameCube lacked online functionality at launch, several games, such as Phantasy Star Online Episode I & II, later incorporated online play. The console boasted impressive graphical capabilities for its time, delivering visually stunning games like Metroid Prime and Resident Evil 4. Although the PlayStation 2 dominated the market share, the GameCube carved out a niche for itself with its focus on high-quality, exclusive titles and remains a beloved console among Nintendo fans for its unique charm and memorable gaming experiences. The console also included ports for broadband and modem adapters, enabling online multiplayer in supported games.

The GameCube's legacy lives on through its memorable games, innovative controller, and distinctive design. It is remembered as a console that prioritized quality over quantity, delivering a library of titles that continue to be enjoyed by gamers today. The console's controller design, with its unique button layout and ergonomic feel, has influenced subsequent Nintendo controllers and continues to be praised for its comfort and precision.

⚙️ Specifications

  • CPU: IBM PowerPC "Gekko" 485 MHz
  • GPU: ATI "Flipper" 162 MHz
  • RAM: 24 MB MoSys 1T-SRAM, 16 MB DRAM
  • Storage: Proprietary miniDVD (1.5 GB)
  • Media: GameCube Game Disc

🎮 Top 10 Games

  • The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker
  • Metroid Prime
  • Super Smash Bros. Melee
  • Resident Evil 4
  • Mario Kart: Double Dash!!
  • Super Mario Sunshine
  • Animal Crossing
  • Pikmin
  • Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door
  • Eternal Darkness: Sanity's Requiem

🎥 Video Review

💡 Curiosities

  • ? Did you know the GameCube's controller ports were also compatible with the Nintendo 64 controller, via an adapter?
  • ? The GameCube had a built-in modem/broadband adapter port, but it was rarely utilized compared to its competitors.
  • ? The GameCube's miniDVD format was chosen primarily to combat piracy.
  • ? Early GameCube prototypes were shaped like a simple, purple box.
  • ? The GameCube was originally codenamed "Dolphin".
  • ? Nintendo partnered with Panasonic to release a GameCube/DVD player hybrid called the Q, but it was only available in Japan.
  • ? The Game Boy Player allowed Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance games to be played on the GameCube.
  • ? The GameCube's controller was designed to be comfortable for both left-handed and right-handed players.
  • ? The GameCube's startup sound is actually a musical representation of the Nintendo logo.
  • ? The GameCube's memory cards came in a variety of sizes, with the largest officially supported being 59 blocks.