Launched 2001 (JP Sep 14, NA Nov 18), 2002 (EU/UK May 3), Nintendo’s compact cube brought fast-loading 8 cm optical discs, four controller ports, and a focus on silky 60 fps gameplay. Powered by the IBM “Gekko” PowerPC CPU and ATI “Flipper” GPU, it delivered vibrant 480p visuals (with early models offering Digital AV Out), plus quality-of-life delights like the WaveBird wireless pad, Memory Card saves and Broadband/Modem Adapter support.
A stellar first-party and partner lineup defines the system: Super Smash Bros. Melee, Metroid Prime (and Echoes), The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, Super Mario Sunshine, Pikmin, F-Zero GX, Luigi’s Mansion, Animal Crossing, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door, Mario Kart: Double Dash!!, Eternal Darkness, Star Wars Rogue Leader, and Resident Evil 4. Beloved for its durable design (hello, carry handle), iconic Indigo colorway, and deep library, the GameCube is a must-have for retro collectors and Nintendo fans alike.
