Ah, the Nintendo GameCube! It may have been overshadowed by other consoles in its time, but for many of us, it holds a special place in our hearts. Whether you’re reminiscing about the joy of playing with friends in the same room or going on vast adventures alone, the GameCube delivered unforgettable experiences. Today, I’m excited to share the top 10 must-play GameCube games that everyone should experience at least once. Let's push that satisfying power button and Z while booting up the GameCube.
When the GameCube hit the market in 2001, it introduced a unique blend of fun, innovation, and nostalgia. Its compact design and handle made it a "portable" option, and the built-in 4 controller ports made it an attractive option for sleepovers and parties. More than just a pretty package, it boasted a fantastic library of exclusive titles that are still celebrated today, along with some fantastic third-party games that should never be forgotten.
While the cel-shaded approach to graphics initially met criticism from fans, the game's art style has aged like wine. While Wind Waker is visually one of the most appealing must-play GameCube games, it also manages to deliver on the classic Zelda formula. After Ocarina of Time and Majora's Mask, the series had quite a pair of shoes to fill. Without a doubt, Wind Waker will provide anyone with a fresh and exciting experience on their first play-through, and continuing discovery in replay-ability. As one could expect with the soundtracks from the Zelda series, the sounds of Wind Waker will have you on the edge of your seat in tense situations and give you butterflies while adventuring.
I remember being so excited for Wind Waker to be released. I was old enough to know I loved Legend of Zelda, and young enough to not care about cel-shaded graphics, so I was the perfect demographic. There really isn't another feeling that equates to the feeling you get for setting sail on the great sea for the first time.
Melee has a cult following for a reason. Widely accepted to be the best Smash Bros, Melee provides a fluid and fast-paced platform to pit their favorite Nintendo characters against each other. With multiple game modes and a large amount of unlockable content, Super Smash Bros. Melee is a game that will keep you occupied for as long as you let it. Take part in epic brawls with friends or complete the challenges and conquer the Adventure mode.
I can't put into words how much time I have spent playing Smash with friends. The stages were exhilarating, and getting into a brawl on the edge of a platform while another fight is happening behind you and it's getting closer is a beautiful, anxiety-inducing experience that nobody should have to forego.
Metroid Prime was met with slight skepticism when announced because the Metroidvania gameplay style is beloved by fans and it wasn't clear how that would translate to a 3D space without becoming linear. Nintendo nailed its execution and provided players with a game that far exceeded their expectations.
This game came at a perfect time in my life. I had just gotten into the series by playing Metroid Fusion and Metroid Zero Mission. When I finally got my hands on a copy of Metroid Prime, I don't think I opened the disc tray on my GameCube until it was finished.
Like water? Have we got an island for you. While Super Mario Sunshine didn't quite deliver on its expectations, the beautiful graphics and amusing gameplay made it a staple on game shelves everywhere.
You have to remember that before the sixth generation of game consoles, water didn't look that convincing. Playing with water like this, even if it is a pretty glorified tech demo, brought me hours of fun. I think the FLUDD device worked great with introducing a new way to navigate 3D levels with Mario.
What can be said about Animal Crossing that hasn't already been said? While originally developed for the Nintendo 64, Animal Crossing was released to the GameCube and provided players with a well-received break from fast-paced gameplay. Explore and build upon your own virtual community and make friends you can never forget.
Animal Crossing, to me, was a groundbreaking experience as most kids at the time's explanation of what the perfect video game would be was "A game where you can do everything." While you can't exactly do everything, you can have fun meeting new friends and even playing retro Nintendo games within Animal Crossing. Amazing.
Luigi finally gets his flowers in this unique entry to the Mario universe. Take control of Luigi and rescue Mario for once while exploring a haunted mansion. An incredibly fun blend of humor and childlike spookiness makes Luigi's Mansion one of the top must-play GameCube games.
While the horror aspect was a little too young for me at the time, it wasn't completely absent. My favorite memories with Luigi's Mansion are the quirky little things like the Game Boy Horror.
F-Zero GX delivers a unique racing game in 3D space that will test your skill every step of the way. Fans haven't been rallying for a new 3D F-Zero game since GX's release recreationally. This game is nothing short of addicting.
Fingers crossed we get another F-Zero. Growing up, I loved racing games and always thought that I wouldn't like a fantasy-style racing game like F-Zero. That was until I played it all night at a birthday party and begged my mother for a copy.
In the dictionary, right next to the word "Charming" is the cover of Pikmin. A light real-time strategy game without the clutter will have you excited to discover what Pikmin can do and how fun it can be to solve puzzles and take down bosses.
The reason I love Pikmin so much is because of its simplicity. The idea is simple: certain Pikmin do certain things, and you have to fix your rocket ship. Even so, the gameplay seems much more complex and satisfying.
Four Swords is a wonderful game to break out at a party. It's all the things you love about Zelda in a fun 2D art style with friends and without the grind. This title is a bit more arcade-y than other entries in the series, but it creates its own charm and addictive gameplay.
I actually didn't experience Four Swords until quite recently as I always assumed I would never find a group of friends who would want to play. It wasn't until about a year ago I found out you could play the GameCube version alone, and while not as fun as I imagine it would be with friends, it still blew me away.
What a shame we didn't get a traditional Final Fantasy entry on the GameCube. No worries, though, as Crystal Chronicles is an incredible addition to the Final Fantasy universe and is a great way to have multiplayer fun. Chronicles offers inspiring dungeons and overworlds and fantastic music to fuel the adventure.
Even though the art style for this entry wasn't my favorite, the vibrant world leaves nothing to the imagination, and teaming up for some dungeons in multiplayer mode was hours of fun on a rainy day or hangout session.
These ten must-play GameCube games are not just classics; they represent a unique era in gaming that many of us cherish. Each title offers a distinct experience that reflects the creativity and innovation of its time.
Whether you’re looking to relive old memories or dive into a new gaming adventure, these games are sure to provide enjoyment and nostalgia. So, dust off that GameCube (or fire up your emulator) and experience these gems for yourself!
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