The Top 25 GameCube Games of All Time Our loveable purple lunch box known as the GameCube may

be a thing of the past now that Wii has successfully taken over the world, but we'd be fools to forget its abundant array of kick-ass games it brought to the table (especially since they're all backwards compatible). For that reason, IGN has teamed up to deliver our Top 25 lists for each of our last-generation systems (may they rest in piece), so that we can take one final look at the gems we ignored so much of our social life for, and give you all one more chance to bitch and moan about our personal favorites. Ladies and gentlement, we present to you our Top 25 GameCube Games of All Time. Here's how it works. The IGN GameCube team has (after much kicking and screaming) assembled a list of our top 25 GameCube games. Each day we'll be divulging five of our picks for the GCN's top games, and allow you to enjoy the drama by use of the IGN boards, Cube Mail, and Matt Casamassina's home address (in a perfect world). By the end of the week we'll have our full Top 25 GameCube Games of All Time list, and all will be well in the world. 25) Metal Gear Solid: Twin Snakes Developer: Silicon Knights Publisher: Konami Year Released: 2004 Synopsis: After years of watching the Playstation crowd getting game after game, GCN owners were treated to a beautifully-crafted remake of one of the greatest games in our industry's history. As a joint collaboration between Nintendo, Silicon Knights, and publisher Konami, Snake was given a second life on Nintendo's consoles, including new story elements and weapons, as well as an immersive first-person mode. Aside from being a much-needed addition to the mature-rated games on GameCube, Metal Gear Solid: Twin Snakes showed that Konami still had faith in the console, as it became one of the top cult classic titles on the system, and paved the way for Snake's appearance in the highly anticipated Smash Bros. Brawl for Wii. Other games influenced by Metal Gear Solid: Twin Snakes: The ability to use first-person control has existed in every Metal Gear game since Twin Snakes. In addition, Snake is now making a headlining appearance in Smash Bros. Brawl for Wii.

24) DK Jungle Beat Developer: Nintendo EAD Publisher: Nintendo Year Released: 2005 Synopsis: We may not have gotten a traditional Donkey Kong game to go with Super Mario Sunshine on the ole GameCube, but the crazy ape himself

did make quite a few appearances on the console in the form of a couple bongo-based titles that helped set the console apart from its competitors. Along with Donkey Konga, DK Jungle Beat came packaged with a set of bongos, and while the gameplay was anything but traditional, it was an impressive product with a ton of appeal towards the casual and hardcore crowd alike. With all actions in the game assigned to two gigantic buttons, DK Jungle Beat was a sign of things to come from Nintendo, with simplicity being the key ingredient to innovative and inviting gameplay. Other games influenced by DK Jungle Beat: DK Bongo Blast (Wii), as well as any future super-casual Nintendo properties such as Wii Sports or Wii Play. Simplicity is key, and Jungle Beat helped prove that.

23) Baten Kaitos: Eternal Wings and the Lost Ocean Developer: Monolith Software Publisher: Namco Year Released: 2004 Synopsis: If you were a die-hard, chances are you felt at least a little left out on GameCube. In fact, if it wasn't for a few essential titles such as Skies of Arcadia, Tales of Symphonia, and Baten Kaitos the console would be void of any true RPGs for fans to sink their teeth into. Fortunately Namco supplied not just one, but two Baten Kaitos games for GameCube, each with a captivating story, intriguing card-based battle system, beautiful music, and an impressive art style. Baten Kaitos may have been one of the only role-playing games on Nintendo's purple little box, but it was a success never-the-less, delivering a Cube-exclusive franchise that hardcore gamers could get behind. Other games influenced by Baten Kaitos: Baten Kaitos Origins, Baten Kaitos DS

22) Battalion Wars Developer: Kuju Entertainment Publisher: Nintendo Year Released: 2005 Synopsis: The Game Boy Advance had Advance Wars, and GameCube owners have Battalion Wars. Following in its portable predecessor's footsteps, Battalion Wars hit GameCube in a stylistic and tongue-in-cheek fashion, only to have its overall sales climb to an unimpressive point. Despite sales, the game has lived on from support of Nintendo's more hardcore fan base, allowing for a Wii sequel later this year. The game combines action and strategy with the classic style of the Advance Wars series, dropping gamers into a world that lends itself to the hit series Pikmin (if each of the critters rampaged through war-torn terrain with bazookas and automatic rifles). While Fire Emblem retained its similar gameplay mechanic on Cube, embracing only a more mature look, Battalion wars delivered the exact opposite, evolving the franchise on GameCube and beyond. Other games influenced by Battalion Wars: Battalion Wars II.

21) Super Monkey Ball 2 Developer: Amusement Vision Publisher: SEGA Year Released: 2002 Synopsis: In a move of pure genius, SEGA put a monkey in a freakin' ball; not once, but twice on GameCube with similar results (we won't count Super Monkey Ball Adventure pure evil it is). What more can really be said? The Monkey Ball franchise is awesome. One part monkey, one part ball, Monkey Ball is yet another title that showed off the simple side of gaming, as it required only an analog stick, a beer helmet with cans of Mountain Dew on either side, and those surgical tools used to keep your eyes from blinking. SEGA took everything we loved from the first game, added a ton of new mini-games and a whole new story mode. Monkey Ball is an amazing party game, and an even better old-school throwback to the Marble Madness series. Other games influenced by Super Monkey Ball 2: Super Monkey Ball Adventure, Super Monkey Ball Touch & Roll, Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz, Super Monkey Ball Deluxe.

20) Killer 7 Developer: Capcom Studio 4/Grasshopper Publisher: Capcom Year Released: 2005 Synopsis: It may not have reviewed the highest across the industry, but Killer 7 is one of those games that simply needs to be remembered. Regardless of how some may view the gameplay, Killer 7 has amazing style, and is one of the only true original designs in a long time. Every collection that attempts to call itself diverse simply needs to include Killer 7 as it brings forth some truly unconventional - but amazingly entertaining gameplay elements. For some reason this gem of a Cube title has been given a bad rap, and it is high time that changes. Killer 7 is well worth any mature gamers' cash and time. It's creepy, it's stylized, and it's a true vision. Other games influenced by Killer 7: No More Heroes (Wii).

19) Timesplitters 2 Developer: Free Radical Design Publisher: Eidos Interactive Year Released: 2002 Synopsis: While Goldeneye will forever be known as the FPS that changed the world, we haven't really seen that many classics since the 1997 blockbuster from Rare. But UK studio Free Radical Design, which employs members of the original Goldeneye team, has definitely filled the void. TimeSplitters 2 retains a ton of the look, feel, and pure soul of Goldeneye and adds updated visuals and untamed speed. Most of the guns and

gameplay elements are taken right from 007, making TimeSplitters 2 the unofficial heir to the series. Aside from being inspired by a legendary shooter, TimeSplitters offers a ton of game options, full story mode, and even a level creator. Definitely one of the must-have shooters on GameCube. Other games influenced by Timesplitters 2: Timesplitters: Future Perfect, Perfect Dark Zero (classic Goldeneye/Perfect Dark influence in both).

18) Star Wars Rogue Squadron II: Rogue Leader Developer: Factor 5/LucasArts Publisher: LucasArts Year Released: 2001 Synopsis: It was one of the top launch titles on the system, and still remains to be one of the best games to grace the GameCube, period. Star Wars Rouge Squadron II: Rouge Leader brought an amazing presentation, beautiful visuals, solid gameplay, and an overall precense to the GameCube that was absolutely essential during its opening months, and has gone on to remain one of the more true Star Wars titles out there along with the XWing vs. Tie Fighter series and Shadows of the Empire for Nintendo 64. We said it during our original review for the game six years ago, and we'll say it again; without a doubt, it's one of the most amazing games on the platform. Other games influenced by Star Wars Rogue Squadron II: Rogue Leader: Star Wars Rogue Squadron III, LEGO Star Wars, Lair.

17) Viewtiful Joe Developer: Capcom Studio 4 Publisher: Capcom Year Released: 2003 Synopsis: If there is any company that deserves the VIP for GameCube's lifespan, it's Capcom. Having delivered Resident Evil, Resident Evil 4,

Killer 7, MegaMan Anniversary, MegaMan X Collection, and Viewtiful Joe, Capcom could practically make a Top 20 on its own. Viewtiful Joe hits our list for being a true vision in design, and a total blast to play. The style goes hand-in-hand with Killer 7, as it dares to be as different as possible while still being amazingly entertaining along the way. Multiple sequels have spawned from the original, including PS2 versions of Viewtiful Joe 2 and Red Hot Rumble, Cube versions of those mentioned as well, and an original DS game. When looking at the franchise as a whole, it is the original Viewtiful Joe that caught us by surprise, proving that side-scrollers still have a place in next-gen gaming. Other games influenced by Viewtiful Joe: Viewtiful Joe 2, Viewtiful Joe: Red Hot Rumble.

16) Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door Developer: Intelligent Systems Publisher: Nintendo Year Released: 2004 Synopsis: Before Paper Mario for Cube, there was Paper Mario for N64. Before the days of N64, there was Super Mario RPG. The Mario RPG franchise has been going on for quite some time, even now making appearances on the DS and GBA in the Mario & Luigi franchise, and extending into the world of Super Paper Mario on Wii. However, this was another one of those "I'll get it later" games for a lot of people, releasing in October of 2004, smack-dab in the middle of the yearly gaming rush. As a still steadily-growing franchise, Paper Mario is one of the most gamerfriendly role playing games out there. Its amazing sense of style shows that Nintendo practices what they preach about innovative games, which has become a staple in the company's future. Other games influenced by Paper Mario: Thousand-Year Door: Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga, Mario & Luigi: Partners in Time, Super Paper Mario.

15) Metroid Prime 2 Echoes Developer: Retro Studios Publisher: Nintendo Year Released: 2004 Synopsis: There may only be 25 positions to fill, but the Metroid franchise has managed to take up two of them. It wasn't long after gamers fell in love with the 3D vision of Metroid Prime, that Nintendo announced its sequel. Metroid Prime 2 continues the story of the previous game, offering players a chance to battle an evil version of Samus Aran in her second first-person adventure title for Cube. If you haven't caught up with the latest in the Metroid series, now is the time. Metroid Prime 3 is hitting Wii later this year, which leaves only a few months for any Nintendo slackers out there to get cracking. Offering a new story, stunning visuals, and multiplayer support, Metroid Prime 2 easily makes our list of the Top 25 GameCube Games of All Time. Other games influenced by Metroid Prime 2 Echoes: Metroid Prime: Hunters (DS), Metroid Prime 3: Corruption

14) Soulcalibur 2 Developer: Namco Publisher: Namco Year Released: 2003 Synopsis: Every good collection needs a solid fighting game, and we can't think of a better fighter to add to our own Top 25 than Namco's Soulcalibur II. In most gamer's minds, SCII is the gem of the series. Releasing on all three systems, the title had a golden year in 2003-2004. Each version includes a specific character, and no other version sold as well as the Cube package, offering good ole' Link as the headlining character. Where did the franchise go after that? For some odd reason ($), the series made ($) its way over to the PS2 ($). Makes sense, right? After all, it sold the best on ($) the Cube, so why not bring it to ($) PS2 instead? All joking aside, fans can't complain too much. After all, the GCN got the best version anyways, and nobody can take that away now. It's a sweet little package, and well worth the price. Maybe Namco will give the series a muchneeded return on Wii. In the meantime, pick this game up and cherish it. Other games influenced by Soulcalibur II: Soulcalibur III

13) Resident Evil Developer: Capcom Production Studio 4 Publisher: Capcom Year Released: 2002 Synopsis: While Resident Evil 4 may be one of the best games of all time, the remake of Resident Evil for GameCube is by far one of the scariest in the business. Resident Evil works as a remake of sorts to the original Playstation version, though a ton of content has been added. Graphically, Resident Evil could still stand with the best of this (and next) generation, as it offers amazingly spooky visuals, and an even better audio presentation. In fact, Resident Evil is the first game we've ever played that kept us up at night, and while it may not have the solid over-the-shoulder control that RE4 has, it is far more scary. Other games influenced by Resident Evil: The rest of the Resident Evil series, specifically Resident Evil Zero, and Resident Evil 4 for GameCube.

12) Beyond Good & Evil Developer: Ubisoft Publisher: Ubisoft Year Released: 2003 Synopsis: Yet another amazing vision of design, Beyond Good & Evil is an original property designed by Michel Ancel, creator of Rayman, and lead player in such titles as King Kong, and Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time. Beyond Good & Evil is a total sleeper classic offering gameplay strikingly similar to Zelda, but in a world (and design) all its own. Shortly after its initial release, the game dropped to $10 and then slowly began to rise again once production went up. This is one of those games players will forget to grab, and then make a mad rush for on E-bay years later. Why not pick it up now, enjoy the hell out of it, and then mock those who didn't later? Sounds good to us! Beyond Good & Evil is, without a doubt, one of the best games on GameCube.

Other games influenced by Beyond Good & Evil: None specifically. BG&E takes heavy influence from the Legend of Zelda series.

11) Animal Crossing Developer: Nintendo EAD Publisher: Nintendo Year Released: 2002 Synopsis: Before there was the insanity that was Animal Crossing DS, there was the Cube. Originally a N64 game, Animal Crossing made its American debut in late 2002, and gamers had no idea what hit them. By far one of the most addicting games on the Cube, Animal Crossing offers players a true real-time RPG which continues to play even after you turn off your GCN and head to school, bed, or Aunt Edna's house. The Animal Crossing craze caught on so huge in America that a DS version helped launch Nintendo's first-ever online service. While any good Nintendo fan is still busy getting every item in the handheld version, there are a few great aspects of the original title (such as the GBA island) that shouldn't be missed. Other games influenced by Animal Crossing: Animal Crossing DS

10) Wave Race: Blue Storm

Developer: NST Publisher: Nintendo Year Released: 2001 Synopsis: If you've been a longtime fan of Nintendo, you most-likely remember a franchise called Wave Race. It got its humble beginnings on the original black and white Game Boy, moved over to the Nintendo 64 along with the cult classic 1080 Snowboarding, and played an integral part in the launch of the GameCube. While the Sony crowd had games like Jet Moto, Nintendo fans had what many would consider to be the best jet ski racing franchise out there (oh we know there are so many of them), so when the game made a jump from N64 over to GameCube Nintendo loyals went crazy for it, and rightfully so. The game features a great sense of water racing, hosts some intense tricks, looks beautiful, and is simply a blast to cruise around in. This was the first time doing absolutely nothing in a game was still fun, as we've lost countless hours at the hands of the classic Dolphin Park resort. Oh little dolphins how we miss you so. Here's hoping for a Wii sequel. Other games influenced by Wave Race: Blue Storm: As of now, nothing in particular. Games like Excite Truck show some design influence, but Wave Race takes its own inspiration from the originals on N64 and Game Boy.

9) Super Mario Sunshine Developer: Nintendo EAD Publisher: Nintendo Year Released: 2002 Synopsis: While it may not have made the same "Wow!" impression as Mario 64 did - being the first 3D, analog controlled Mario - Super Mario Sunshine gives Nintendo fans serious 3D platforming at its finest. As Nintendo's top franchise, Mario is expected to deliver the highest quality of gaming possible, teamed with innovation and perfect gameplay. Sunshine fulfilled those expectations in nearly every way, though some gamers still have trouble getting past the game's younger presentation. In the end, however, it all comes down to gameplay for Mario, and while the leap to the Cube may not have been as huge as the N64 conversion, the stunning visuals and classic platforming make it essential to any Nintendo fan's collection. Other games influenced by Super Mario Sunshine: Super Princess Peach, New Super Mario Bros., and Super Mario Galaxy, as well as countless 3D platformers over the years.

8) Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time Developer: Ubisoft Montreal Publisher: Ubisoft Year Released: 2003 Synopsis: While there are plenty of great franchises that have made the conversion from 2D over to 3D, Prince of Persia stands out as one of the only ones able to keep the exact feel of gameplay through the conversion. Games like Metroid manage to change the way franchises are played while still keeping the magic alive, but Prince of Persia retains everything from the previous versions. Gameplay feels exactly how it did on the 2D productions, offering level design that will drive a sane gamer completely mad, and control that ensures precise platforming. Nothing in the design had to change for a near-perfect conversion, making Prince of Persia one of the best franchises to truly conquer the leap from 2D into 3D. Did we mention this is a gorgeous game? Other games influenced by Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time: Prince of Persia: Warrior Within, Prince of Persia: The Two Thrones, Prince of Persia: Rival Swords, Assassin's Creed.

7) F Zero GX Developer: Amusement Vision Publisher: Nintendo Year Released: 2003 Synopsis: F-Zero is by far the fastest and most fearless racer on a Nintendo console to date. Releasing alongside a sit down arcade version, F-Zero GX expands on the original version, offering amazing visuals and an unparalleled sense of speed. The sheer amount of vehicle customization is nearly endless, allowing players to tweak every part of their ship, add or subtract parts to fit within weight restrictions, and even build their own racer from the ground up. For true racing fans, F-Zero will be far more appealing than Mario Kart: Double Dash.

Other games influenced by F Zero GX: Excite Truck, futuristic racing games.

6) Pikmin 2 Developer: Nintendo EAD Publisher: Nintendo Year Released: 2004 Synopsis: Ah, good old Pikmin, would we dare create a list without you little guys? No sir. Pikmin, the latest vision of Nintendo Godfather Miyamoto, combines a bit of real-time strategy elements, a hint of puzzling, and a ton of hilarious little plant-creatures to create what has been a surprising, but enjoyable experience. Since Pikmin is still quite new as a franchise, it has had to earn its place. However, we can't argue with intriguing gameplay, an amazing design, and tiny plant-babies. Pikmin is a blast, and the second version is even stronger than the first. An obvious inspiration for Nintendo's Battalion Wars franchise, Pikmin hit strong on GameCube, and has earned its place among the Top 25 games of the system. Here's hoping for a Wii sequel. Other games influenced by Pikmin 2: Battalion Wars, Battalion Wars 2, the inevitable Pikmin 3.

5) Eternal Darkness: Sanity's Requiem Developer: Silicon Knights Publisher: Nintendo Year Released: 2002 Synopsis: Eternal Darkness is one of those rare and unconventional games that defy simple genre rules. Breaking the boundaries of traditional gameplay, the title actually made you feel insane while playing it -- or tried to. Anyone who has played it understands that feeling, and anyone who has yet to pick it up is in for a treat. The adventure follows a heroic young woman as she journeys to uncover the death of her grandfather. The game enables players to control upward of 12 characters and features a

compelling storyline uncommon in videogames. A surprisingly innovative thriller that's worth every penny. Other games influenced by Eternal Darkness: Sanity's Requiem: Too Human (Silicon Knights), other horror-genre games.

4) The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker Developer: Nintendo Publisher: Nintendo Year Released: 2003 Synopsis: It's amazing how much faith players can put in a franchise, and when that franchise continues (as we want it to), how often our vision is different from the final product. When Nintendo released The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, it was fearless. Everyone expected a mature themed adventure, and fans were split between loving and hating this vision. However, those who dove into Wind Waker found that the magic of the Zelda franchise was still there. The title boasted the same tight control mechanics and brilliant level designs that have together made Nintendo's acclaimed franchise so popular. We've excluded Twilight Princess from the Top 25 GameCube list, as it was predominantly a Wii game, releasing first on Nintendo's new console and in much, much higher numbers, though for Wii-less fans out there the one-two punch of Wind Waker and Twilight Princess propels the Zelda franchise into truly legendary status on GameCube. That being said, if included Twilight Princess would have been listed even higher on the list, as we consider it to be a true homecoming for the franchise. Other games influenced by The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker: The Legend of Zelda: The Phantom Hourglass, The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess

3) Super Smash Bros. Melee Developer: Ubisoft Montreal Publisher: Ubisoft Year Released: 2003 Synopsis: There's a reason why every Nintendo fan is chomping at the bit when watching clips of Super Smash Bros. Brawl on Wii. The game is any Nintendo fanboy's wet dream, featuring the best characters from every major Big N franchise. Melee has become the grand stage of fighters, much like Mario Kart is for racing fans. If you do in fact own a GameCube, and have yet to grab a copy of Smash Bros, please commit honorable suicide at this time (or we guess you could just go buy it too). You won't find a more addictive fighter on Nintendo's console. The only thing we could add to the game, online gameplay, is already in the works for Brawl, making us a group of very happy campers. Other games influenced by Super Smash Bros. Melee Super Smash Bros. Brawl, party fighting games (licensed, Jump Super/Ultimate Stars).

2) Resident Evil 4 Developer: Capcom Publisher: Capcom Year Released: 2005 Synopsis: Resident Evil 4 is without a doubt one of the best games on GCN and the most amazing and immersive of the franchise. There really isn't much that can be said that hasn't already been ranted and raved about. All we can really say is that it is essential to any collection. Resident Evil 4 did for the Cube what Super Mario World did for the SNES. It is visually impressive, flawlessly designed and a true vision. If for some amazingly unfortunate reason you have yet to grab a copy (or two --it's that damn good), grab it now. With Twilight Princess taken from our list of considerations (as it was more a Wii title than a Cube one in the end), Matt Casamassina and Mark Bozon were split equally for our top two picks. Resident Evil 4 is Bozon's top pick on GameCube, and IGN Cube's #2 overall; it's one hell of a game. Other games influenced by Resident Evil 4: All mature games on Nintendo Wii (and beyond), the survival horror genre, all future Resident Evil games.

1) Metroid Prime Developer: Retro Studios Publisher: Nintendo Year Released: 2002 Synopsis: When it all comes down to it, only one game can truly sit at the top of a list, proving what the system was about, pushing gameplay and graphics to the limit, and delivering the most immersive package for console owners. For GameCube, Metroid Prime is that game. As a surprising classic released in 2002 (two years prior to games like Resident Evil 4), Metroid Prime redefined Nintendo's classic franchise, and ushered it into a new 3D era. Shortly following Prime we were again treated to Nintendo's first-person adventure series with Echoes, then by Prime Hunters on DS and eventually the pending release of Prime 3: Corruption on Wii. While other franchises made significant steps during the N64 era (Twilight Princess, for example, could be considered a progression of Ocarina of Time), Prime got its start on GameCube, and it breathed new life into the franchise. It was an amazing rebirth, an incredible GameCube game, and one of the top Nintendo titles in over two decades of gaming, period. Other games influenced by Metroid Prime: Metroid Prime 2: Echoes, Metroid Prime: Hunters, Metroid Prime 3: Corruption, first-person adventure games.