"GameCube will not be targeting kids, will not be targeting teens and will not be targeting adult. GameCube will appeal to anyone who enjoys being entertained by interactive gaming. We believe gaming is an attitude, not an age."
David Gosen, Nintendo of Europe. Instead of going for the highest possible performance, which according to Nintendo does not contribute to software development, their idea was to create a developer-friendly next generation TV game machine that maintained above-standard capabilities.

In order to accomplish this, Nintendo have removed the 'bottlenecks' which hinder an efficient system. they have introduced 1T-RAM technology, which has a minimum of delays, into the main memory and the Graphics LSI Mixed Memory. Also, secondary cache memory with a large capacity was implemented in the MPU. With this combination they have succeeded at creating reliable functionality that can be used with actual games.

The GameCube's 8cm Disc medium will allow games makers to create a longer game experience with enhanced cut scenes. The programmers seem extremely happy with GameCube, reaffirming that the system is "attractive" for developers.

The controller has been heralded as the most ergonomically designed peripheral ever held. For some forthcoming games you can even use the GameBoy Advance as a controller, while the GBA's screen can be used to present extra features and information in the palm of your hand! GameCube's sequel, the Wii looks to be released sometime in 2006, behind Xbox 2 and PS3.

VERDICT

Graphics Sound Games Extra features Cost Very portable, very playable, very affordable!