Top picks include Mario Kart: Double Dash!! with its unique dual-rider mechanic, the chaotic mini-games of the Mario Party series, the addictive party modes of Super Monkey Ball, and the competitive action of Soul Calibur II.
Best GameCube Games of All Time: Top Picks & Hidden Gems
From 2001 to 2007, the Nintendo GameCube provided something unique to gamers. Even this year, 2025, its games cheer people up because of nostalgia, updated re-releases, simple emulation and the rising popularity of retro collections.
Let's discuss great GameCube games, picking out favorites from this list, and get ready to be captivated by these great games again!
Top 10 Must-Play GameCube Games
These are the best-loved games for the GameCube, the ones players often mention and cherish. These games demonstrate the best and most entertaining features on Nintendo's little purple system.
1Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door
This beloved RPG took the charm and wit of the original Paper Mario and amplified it. Owing to its sharp dialogue, unforgettable characters and unique combat style, where pressing a button at the right time added more damage and defense, The Thousand-Year Door is still many fans' favorite game.
The paper's ability to be shaped into a stage play and launched like an airplane or rolled up into a tube made the game more fun to explore and solve puzzles. Throughout the game, the use of humor and surprising events made players eager to reach the end.
2Mario Kart: Double Dash!!
In Double Dash!!, the game was changed by offering a double-character kart where one rides and the other handles the items. As a result, the game became even more thought-provoking and enjoyable.
The different tracks, a large variety of characters, and the introduction of special items for each character made every race an exciting event in multiplayer. It is still an excellent party game, just as enjoyable today as it was back in 2003.
3Metroid Prime
Metroid Prime resulted in one of the best first-person action games, transforming the traditional 2D world of Metroid into an impressive 3D version. Playing as Samus Aran, the game took players through the mysterious Tallon IV so they could scan locations, solve challenges and fight aliens.
The spooky setting, thrilling noises and the sense of being isolated gave the game a unique feeling that I won't soon forget. With the latest remaster, it has become more obvious why it remains a classic game.
4Super Monkey Ball 2
Super Monkey Ball 2 involved players going through a number of interesting mazes with a monkey in a ball.
The story-based game provided lots to enjoy, but the mini-games were the true highlights, especially Monkey Target and Monkey Golf. Friends would always gather for endless laughter and thrills, thanks to these modes.
5Eternal Darkness: Sanity's Requiem
Eternal Darkness excelled by pushing the boundaries, allowing its characters to interact with gamers through creative means. While exploring the story of generations of ancient evil, the game affected players with sanity effects, including showing fake errors and disconnecting the controller.
This innovative approach to horror created a truly immersive and disturbing experience that remains unmatched.
6Tales of Symphonia
The game attracted many with its captivating plot, interesting cast of characters and fun fight system for up to four players. Tales of Symphonia featured Lloyd Irving and his friends as they went on a touching and dramatic journey to save the land of Sylvarant.
This system lets players move across the screen using various attacks and strategies in combat. Because it is still so popular, it has been released numerous times.
7Metal Gear Solid: The Twin Snakes
A full remake of Metal Gear Solid for the PlayStation, The Twin Snakes appeared on the GameCube, featuring better graphics, new voices, and elements inspired by Metal Gear Solid games.
While some purists debated the changes, the enhanced visuals and fluid controls made this a compelling way to experience a pivotal moment in gaming history.
8Soul Calibur II
Widely considered one of the best entries in the Soul Calibur series, the GameCube version held a unique advantage: the inclusion of Link from The Legend of Zelda as a playable character.
This exclusive addition brought a new dimension to the already deep and satisfying weapon-based fighting mechanics. With its diverse cast, fluid combat, and engaging single-player modes, Soul Calibur II remains a benchmark for the genre.
9Mario Party 4–7
The Mario Party series on the GameCube continued the tradition of chaotic and fun local multiplayer mayhem. Featuring a plethora of inventive mini-games, board game-style progression, and plenty of opportunities for friendly (or not-so-friendly) competition, these titles were perfect for gatherings.
While each installment had its own unique boards and mini-games, the core formula of dice rolling, mini-game challenges, and star collecting remained consistently entertaining.
10Star Wars Rogue Squadron II: Rogue Leader
GameCube owners got to enjoy stunning Star Wars battles thanks to the dazzling Rogue Leader. Using X-wings, Y-wings and A-wings, players undertook exciting battles against the Empire.
Thanks to the amazing graphics, powerful sound effects and responsive control, it gave the same feeling as watching the films. This game is still seen as a reference in the genre of console flight games.
Why GameCube Games Are Still Worth Playing in 2025
Despite being two decades old, GameCube games continue to hold significant appeal in 2025:
1. Emulation
With the Dolphin emulator, playing GameCube games on new computers and Macs is very simple. With this program, you can convert your video to HD or 4K, making it look much better. Furthermore, the game can work well with many different modern controllers, which makes it more enjoyable.
2. Remasters
Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door and Baten Kaitos I & II HD Remaster have recently come to the Nintendo Switch, just like the widely admired Metroid Prime Remastered. Upgraded graphics, better controls, and even new additions in these remasters make them the preferred way to play these games.
3. Nostalgia factor
Those who had the GameCube in their childhood will enjoy playing these games again as a trip down memory lane. Unique features, the well-known startup noise and moments spent gaming with friends and family make the memories special and endearing. That's why GameCube games are popular among those who love collecting video game history and playing retro games.
4. GameCube exclusives that never got ported
Many GameCube games could only be played on that console and not on any others. It is possible to play Eternal Darkness, F-Zero GX and Mario Party from that era only on the GameCube or with an emulator.
Underrated GameCube Gems Worth Revisiting
On top of its famous games, the GameCube hosted several lesser-known titles that are now famous among fans. If these games slipped away from you, now is the time to check them out.
1. Baten Kaitos 1 & 2
Monolith Soft's two card-based RPGs are appreciated for their lovely visuals and well-designed gameplay. Players used playing cards for various attacks, spells and items which had different elemental connections and possibilities for combinations. The ability to capture objects as cards by using a unique "Magnus" system gave these games a sense of uniqueness. Some of the narratives were complicated, but what set these games apart were their interesting designs and fun combat.
2. Skies of Arcadia Legends
Skies of Arcadia Legends was originally published on the Dreamcast and was later released on the GameCube. You've got to explore an interesting world in this RPG which is full of floating islands, pirates, and deep historical secrets. Fighting on land and taking part in air battles along with exploring the unique personalities of the team, made it easy to remember. Its tales of excitement and quest still captivate us even now.
3. Star Fox Assault
Many Star Fox fans felt divided by the addition of foot combat in Assault, however, the game still gave players a unique mix of both ground and sky battles. Though the land missions fell a bit short of the aerial fights, Shadow was a fun journey through the Star Fox world. The game's engaging plot and outstanding boss fights made it a valuable game for the GameCube.
4. Phantasy Star Online (Episodes I–III)
Phantasy Star Online was the first console online RPG to offer players the popular loot gameplay typical of PC RPGs. People could come together online (or close by) to discover dungeons, battle monsters, and search for rare treasures. Although servers are no longer available, the game continues to be enjoyable, giving players a feel for early console online gaming.
5. Splinter Cell
For a Nintendo system, the original Splinter Cell was a rare introduction to stealth-based combat games. Playing as Sam Fisher, we needed to use the dark, special gear and solid strategy to infiltrate the enemy's sites. The game's stealth features and darker story were unusual for a Nintendo game which made it an appealing addition to the GameCube.
6. Star Wars Rebel Strike
While perhaps not as critically acclaimed as its predecessor, Rogue Leader, Star Wars Rebel Strike offered a fun campaign that expanded beyond vehicle combat with on-foot missions. More importantly, it featured fantastic local co-op missions, allowing two players to team up and tackle various challenges from the Star Wars saga. This co-op focus made it a great game to enjoy with a friend.
Reddit Picks That Still Resonate
Many enthusiastic GameCube fans on Reddit are always talking about the games they like most on the console. Check out these sayings to understand why these games are so unique.
- "Skies of Arcadia deserves more attention; it remains one of the top airship RPGs of all time. The process of exploring new areas and developing the world is fascinating. The excitement from the airship battles has not worn off for me.. I still get chills from the airship battles." - TailzPrower
- "Metroid Prime 4 completely changed the way I felt about first-person games. The unique atmosphere, way of scanning, and feeling of being isolated made me realize the game was special." - Varia31
- "Paper Mario TTYD has the best written plot among the games in the franchise. The characters are so funny, and the plot is really interesting. It's an RPG that isn't overly serious, but still gives you a memorable adventure." - Piranha_Plant5379
Such comments show that generations still love and notice the unique aspects these GameCube games had.
Conclusion
The Nintendo GameCube may have been a small cube, but it housed a giant library of unforgettable games. From the iconic adventures of Mario and Samus to the innovative horror of Eternal Darkness and the addictive multiplayer of Mario Kart, the GameCube era left an indelible mark on gaming history.
In 2025, these games are not just relics of the past; they are vibrant experiences that continue to entertain and captivate players through nostalgia, remasters, and the power of emulation. So dust off your old console, fire up Dolphin, or grab those Switch remasters – the world of the GameCube is still waiting to be explored.
FAQs
What Are the Best Gamecube Games for Multiplayer?
Where to Play These Games Today?
If you are interested in playing classic GameCube games in 2025, try one of these routes.
Physical Copies via eBay or Local Shops
Retro gaming is more popular than ever, letting you procure original GameCube consoles and games from online sites such as eBay or offline at stores that sell retro games.
Yet, bear in mind that the cost of popular games and well-maintained consoles has gone up due to strong demand. The price can be greatly influenced by how well all the original parts and boxes are present.
Dolphin Emulator on PC/Mac With 1080P or 4K Support
As mentioned earlier, Dolphin is a powerful and free emulator that allows you to play a vast majority of GameCube games on your computer.
With the right hardware, you can enjoy these games in significantly higher resolutions than their original 480i output, often reaching 1080p or even 4K. Dolphin also supports various controller types, including modern console controllers, allowing for a more comfortable and customizable experience.
Can I Play Gamecube Games on the Nintendo Switch?
The Nintendo Switch does not play original GameCube discs. However, select titles like Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door, Metroid Prime, and Baten Kaitos have been released as remasters for the Switch.
What Is the Best Gamecube RPG?
Standout RPGs include the charming Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door, the epic adventure of Tales of Symphonia, the unique card-based battles of Baten Kaitos, and the sky-faring exploration of Skies of Arcadia Legends.
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