
2001
AU Release
17 May 2002
AU Launch Price
$399 AUD
~$740 today
Units Sold
22M
Processor
IBM PowerPC Gecko (485 MHz)
Memory
40 MB (24 MB main + 16 MB audio)
Storage
Memory Card
Media
Nintendo Optical Disc (mini-DVD)
Global lifetime sales
The GameCube was a commercial failure compared to the PlayStation 2 but is remembered with enormous affection for its library. Despite selling just 21 million units, it was home to some of Nintendo's greatest ever titles: Metroid Prime, Super Smash Bros. Melee, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, Luigi's Mansion, and Pikmin. Melee in particular spawned a competitive gaming scene that persists to this day — dedicated players still compete at major esports events over 20 years later. The GameCube's small discs were chosen to prevent DVD piracy, but this decision backfired as the PlayStation 2 doubled as a DVD player.
Super Smash Bros. Melee was released just 13 months after the GameCube's launch yet remains one of the most-played competitive games in the world today
The GameCube handle was designed for portability — Nintendo considered a screen attachment for portable play (a concept they'd revisit with the Switch)
The GameCube's mini-DVD format held only 1.5 GB — Resident Evil 4 was so large it required compression techniques to fit
Browse GameCube titles available for trade on Greatest GOAT Australia — stop paying EB Games prices.
Browse GameCube GamesLuigi's Mansion
4M copies sold
Xbox
2001 · 24M sold

Nintendo 64
1996 · 33M sold