Game Consoles

Nintendo GameCube

Release: November 18, 2001
aka: Nintendo Dolphin

Developed under the codename Dolphin, the Nintendo GameCube is Nintendo's 128-bit system. The system was first announced at the 1999 Electronics Entertainment Expo (E3). The processor for the system was developed by IBM and the graphics by Canada-based ATI. The small 1.5GB optical discs were designed by Matsushita (Panasonic). In 2000, the system was announced as the Nintendo GameCube, and video demos of a Mario and Legend of Zelda game were shown. (The Legend of Zelda video featured 3D models of characters Link and Ganon fighting, which mis-led many gamers about what to expect from the later-released Wind Waker game).

(Order a Nintendo GameCube today from Amazon.com.)

Upgrades & Accessories

Broadband Adapter

The GameCube Broadband Network adapter plugs into the bottom of the Game Cube system. This unit connects the GameCube to a local network—and ultimately to a broadband internet connection for online gameplay.

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V.90 Modem Adapter

The GameCube modem adapter, which is similar to the network adapter, allows GC players to dial-up for online gaming.

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Wavebird Wireless Controller

A Wireless version of the GameCube controller was released. Order one online from Amazon.com.

Game Boy Player

Similar to the Super Game Boy attachment for the Super Nintendo, the Game Boy Player once again allows Nintendo's portable games - from all of: the Game Boy, Game Boy Color and Game Boy Advance—to be played on the big(ger) screen. The attachment sits underneath the GameCube, and takes the portable game in through the front. It also has a port in the front for a GBA Link, but according to the Player's manual, is for interfacing only with Game Boy Advance and Advance SP systems, and not with other Game Boy Players.

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Game Boy Advance Link

The GameCube is capable of interfacing with Nintendo's Game Boy Advance handheld system. Some games, such as The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, make use of the Game Boy Advance for special features. Others, such as Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles and Zelda: Tetra's Trackers use the Game Boy Advance as a big part of gameplay, where players can view their own player data on their GBA screen while most gameplay happens on the main TV or monitor.

GameCube Monitor

Intec developed a small monitor which attaches to the top of the GameCube to make the small system portable.

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Panasonic Q

The Panasonic Q is a hybrid between the Nintendo GameCube and a DVD player.