A quarter-century ago, this compact console was released in Japan. Despite stiff competition from the PS2, the hardware remains unforgettable thanks to titles like *Metroid Prime*.
In the early 2000s, Nintendo took living rooms by storm with a small, purple cube. Developed under the code name “Project Dolphin,” the GameCube was designed to compete with Sony’s PlayStation 2. The device was compact, even featured a carrying handle, and used the Japanese company’s own optical MiniDiscs with 1.5 gigabytes of storage capacity. Today, the GameCube celebrates its 25th anniversary.
At least, the console was released on the Japanese market on September 14, 2001—European fans had to wait until May 3, 2002. Technically, enormous power was packed into the compact case, thanks to a processor from IBM and a graphics chip from ATI.
Ergonomic Icon and Milestones: The GameCube Controller and Its Classics
Nintendo’s GameCube also stood out thanks to its controller design, which was distinctly different from the Sony gamepad. With its eye-catching green A button and ergonomic shoulder buttons, the controller still feels great in your hands today. It’s no coincidence that the controller continues to be used in esports tournaments, and Nintendo even re-released it for *Smash Bros. Ultimate* on the Switch.
Beyond the hardware, Nintendo sought to captivate players with its games. The GameCube marked the debut of *Luigi’s Mansion*, in which Mario’s brother goes ghost hunting. *The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker* also debuted with its colorful cel-shaded look, and *Metroid Prime* completely reinvented the series with a first-person perspective. Meanwhile, Star Wars fans were thrilled by the Rogue Squadron titles, bringing the Star Wars saga to life on their home TV screens.
The Shadow of the PS2: Below Expectations, but a True Fan Favorite
Despite the strong lineup of games, Nintendo sold only about 21.7 million GameCube consoles worldwide—significantly fewer than Sony’s PS2 (around 160 million). While the console fell short of commercial expectations financially, it won a place in fans’ hearts with a variety of excellent games.
