Modder Builds Working GameCube Mini

A hardware modder built a functional, miniature GameCube that they put together using parts from a mini-PC build and some adapters, and shared a short demonstration of how it works. The mini GameCube builder also confirmed that the pint-sized console is available via commission and in three iconic colors.

Originally released in 2001, the GameCube was Nintendo’s fourth home console and was released nearly a year after Sony’s PlayStation 2 had taken the market by storm. While the GameCube competed as part of the sixth game console generation, Nintendo’s diminutive console only sold just over 21 million units over the console’s lifespan, with the Xbox selling 24 million and the PS2 a record-setting 155 million. Despite lacking the DVD functionality that the PS2 and Xbox had, the GameCube was home to many classic Nintendo titles, such as Super Smash Bros. Meleeand The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker.

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Although Nintendo previously dabbled in micro-consoles such as the SNES Mini, one fan gave the GameCube a similar treatment. First reported by Time Extension, Threads user RobertDunnArt shared their GameCube Mini lineup with pictures and videos on their feed. In their recent posts, RobertDunnArt shared screenshots of a black GameCube Mini next to a standard-sized GameCube, with the former being around half the size of the original. RobertDunnArt stated that the GameCube Mini console’s exterior was made with a 3D printer, and could be painted to the order of each customer, with colors like black, indigo, and orange among the most common. RobertDunnArt used an x86 Intel-based mini PC to power the GameCube Mini, with additional adapters that allow players to use a wired GameCube controller. A fan was added on the side of the mini PC for extra cooling of the interior components.

Modder Shares Homemade GameCube Mini Console

The GameCube Mini console includes USB and Ethernet ports and can be plugged into a TV via an HDMI cable. RobertDunnArt posted a short video that showed the GameCube Mini’s startup screens, including the console’s iconic jingle. Like Nintendo’s official micro-consoles, the homemade GameCube Mini uses emulation to play games. Ergo, the GameCube’s proprietary game discs will not work. Nintendo fans and retro enthusiasts looking to pick up a GameCube Mini from RobertDunnArt can do so via direct messages on Threads, though slots are limited.

Although other machines like the Steam Deck can emulate the GameCube with varying degrees of success, Nintendo’s sixth-generation console remains a fan-favorite. With the Switch 2 in development, it remains to be seen if Nintendo will re-release any GameCube entries on the system.

GameCube

Part of the sixth-generation console wars, the Nintendo GameCube was the company’s upgrade from the Nintendo 64 and saw them changing from a cartridge-based system to small discs. It battled against the PlayStation 2 and Xbox.

Brand

Nintendo

Original Release Date

November 18, 2001

Original MSRP (USD)

$199, £129, €199

Weight

3 lbs.