The Gamecube was a popular console released by Nintendo in 2001 and was a significant leap from its predecessor, the Nintendo 64. The console’s unique design and library of games quickly gained popularity among gamers, leading to several best-selling titles. In this article, we will be looking at the top ten best-selling Gamecube games of all time.
Super Smash Bros. Melee
Super Smash Bros. Melee was released in 2001 and is the best-selling Gamecube game of all time, with over 7 million copies sold worldwide. The game features popular Nintendo characters such as Mario, Link, Donkey Kong, and Pikachu, among others, battling it out in a 2D fighting game format. Super Smash Bros. Melee’s success is due to its engaging gameplay, multiple game modes, and the ability to play with up to four players.
Super Smash Bros. Melee has been praised for its intuitive controls, deep gameplay mechanics, and excellent soundtrack. The game also features a robust single-player campaign, which has become a staple of the series. Over the years, the game has maintained a devoted fanbase and continues to be played competitively at events and tournaments around the world.
| Release Date | Peak Players | Sales |
|---|---|---|
| December 3, 2001 | N/A | 7 million+ |
Mario Kart: Double Dash!!
Mario Kart: Double Dash!! was released in 2003 and has sold over 6.9 million copies worldwide. The game is a racing game that features popular Mario characters, including Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Bowser, among others. The game’s success is attributed to its colorful graphics, unique gameplay mechanics, and the ability to play with two players simultaneously.
Mario Kart: Double Dash!! introduced several new features to the series, such as the ability to switch between two characters and unique items specific to each character. The game also featured a battle mode, where players could compete in a variety of game modes. Mario Kart: Double Dash!! received critical acclaim for its fun and accessible gameplay, making it a must-have title for Gamecube owners.
| Release Date | Peak Players | Sales |
|---|---|---|
| November 17, 2003 | N/A | 6.9 million+ |
The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker
The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker was released in 2002 and has sold over 4.6 million copies worldwide. The game features the iconic character, Link, on an adventure to rescue his sister and defeat the evil Ganon. The game’s cel-shaded graphics and innovative gameplay mechanics were well received by critics and fans alike.
The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker’s unique graphical style was initially met with mixed reactions, but it has since become a beloved part of the franchise’s history. The game’s open-world exploration, diverse characters, and engaging combat system were also highly praised. The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker remains a classic title in the series and a must-play for any Gamecube owner. If you are a fan of Wind Waker, you should check out Breath of the Wild as well.
| Release Date | Peak Players | Sales |
|---|---|---|
| March 24, 2003 | N/A | 4.6 million+ |
Super Mario Sunshine
Super Mario Sunshine was released in 2002 and has sold over 5.5 million copies worldwide. The game features Mario on a quest to clean up a tropical island using a water-spouting backpack. The game’s bright colors, engaging gameplay, and unique mechanics made it a hit among gamers.
Super Mario Sunshine introduced several new mechanics to the Mario series, such as the F.L.U.D.D. water pack, which allowed Mario to hover, clean up pollution, and blast enemies. The game also featured a wide range of environments, from sunny beaches to eerie amusement parks, and a variety of challenges, including platforming and puzzle-solving.
| Release Date | Peak Players | Sales |
|---|---|---|
| July 19, 2002 | N/A | 5.5 million+ |
Animal Crossing
Animal Crossing was released in 2001 and has sold over 2.3 million copies worldwide. The game is a life simulation game that allows players to live in a virtual town and interact with animal residents. The game’s relaxed gameplay and cute animal characters made it a popular title among gamers.
Animal Crossing’s unique gameplay revolves around real-time events and seasons, encouraging players to log in every day and experience different aspects of their town. The game also featured a robust multiplayer component, allowing players to visit each other’s towns and trade items. Animal Crossing has become a beloved franchise, with multiple sequels and spin-offs released since its debut on the Gamecube.
| Release Date | Peak Players | Sales |
|---|---|---|
| September 15, 2002 | N/A | 2.3 million+ |
Mario Party 4
Mario Party 4 was released in 2002 and has sold over 2.4 million copies worldwide. The game is a party game that allows up to four players to compete in a series of mini-games. The game’s success is due to its fun and engaging mini-games and the ability to play with multiple players.
Mario Party 4 introduced several new mini-games and gameplay mechanics to the series, such as the ability to collect and use items to gain an advantage. The game also featured a unique single-player campaign, where players could explore a board game-like environment and collect coins and stars. Mario Party 4 remains a classic party game and a favorite among Gamecube owners.
| Release Date | Peak Players | Sales |
|---|---|---|
| October 21, 2002 | N/A | 2.4 million+ |
Metroid Prime
Metroid Prime was released in 2002 and has sold over 2.8 million copies worldwide. The game is a first-person adventure game that features the iconic character Samus on a mission to stop the Space Pirates from harnessing the power of a powerful alien artifact. The game’s immersive gameplay and innovative mechanics were well-received by critics and fans alike.
Metroid Prime’s unique first-person perspective and exploration-based gameplay received critical acclaim for its attention to detail and immersive atmosphere. The game also featured a deep and engrossing storyline, which expanded upon the Metroid universe. Metroid Prime has since become a classic title in the series and a must-play for any Gamecube owner.
| Release Date | Peak Players | Sales |
|---|---|---|
| November 18, 2002 | N/A | 2.8 million+ |
Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door
Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door was released in 2004 and has sold over 1.9 million copies worldwide. The game features Mario in a 2D world made of paper, on a quest to rescue Princess Peach and stop the evil X-Nauts. The game’s unique paper-based graphics and engaging gameplay made it a popular title among gamers.
Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door expanded upon the mechanics of its predecessor, introducing new gameplay mechanics such as the ability to transform into different characters and use unique moves in battle. The game also featured a diverse cast of characters and a well-crafted story that
kept players engaged throughout the game. Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door remains a beloved title among fans of the series and a classic Gamecube game.
| Release Date | Peak Players | Sales |
|---|---|---|
| July 22, 2004 | N/A | 1.9 million+ |
Sonic Adventure 2: Battle
Sonic Adventure 2: Battle was released in 2001 and has sold over 1.5 million copies worldwide. The game features the iconic character, Sonic, on a quest to stop Dr. Eggman from conquering the world. The game’s fast-paced gameplay and memorable soundtrack made it a popular title among Gamecube owners.
Sonic Adventure 2: Battle introduced several new features to the series, such as the ability to play as different characters, including Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails. The game also featured a Chao Garden, where players could raise and customize their own Chao creatures. Sonic Adventure 2: Battle remains a favorite among Sonic fans and a classic Gamecube game.
| Release Date | Peak Players | Sales |
|---|---|---|
| February 11, 2002 | N/A | 1.5 million+ |
Resident Evil 4
Resident Evil 4 was released in 2005 and has sold over 1.6 million copies worldwide. The game is a survival horror game that follows the iconic character, Leon S. Kennedy, on a mission to rescue the President’s daughter from a mysterious cult. The game’s intense gameplay, cinematic cutscenes, and immersive atmosphere made it a critical and commercial success.
Resident Evil 4 introduced several new gameplay mechanics to the series, such as the ability to shoot and move simultaneously and quick-time events during cutscenes. The game also featured a variety of unlockable content, including bonus costumes and a Mercenaries mini-game. Resident Evil 4 remains a classic survival horror game and a must-play for any Gamecube owner.
| Release Date | Peak Players | Sales |
|---|---|---|
| January 11, 2005 | N/A | 1.6 million+ |
In conclusion, the Gamecube had a strong library of games, with many titles achieving critical and commercial success. The top ten best-selling Gamecube games of all time are a testament to the console’s popularity and lasting appeal among gamers. From classic Nintendo franchises to third-party hits, the Gamecube had something for everyone. If you’re a fan of the Gamecube, these ten titles are a must-play and a great way to experience the console’s unique gameplay and design.
