N64 Vs Gamecube Which Retro Console Is Actually Worth Buying In 2024

As retro gaming surges in popularity, the debate between the Nintendo 64 and the GameCube isn’t just nostalgic—it’s practical. With both consoles now decades old, collectors, parents, and casual players are revisiting these systems to see which one still holds up in 2024. The choice isn’t merely about nostalgia; it’s about game library depth, hardware reliability, mod support, and long-term value. While the N64 defined a generation with groundbreaking 3D gameplay, the GameCube refined that foundation with sharper visuals, faster load times, and more consistent design. But which one deserves space on your shelf today?

The Legacy of the Nintendo 64

Released in 1996, the Nintendo 64 was revolutionary. It brought true 3D gaming into living rooms with titles like Super Mario 64, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and GoldenEye 007. Its analog stick changed how players interacted with virtual worlds, and its four-player support made it a social centerpiece. However, the N64 relied on cartridges, which limited storage capacity and drove up production costs—resulting in fewer third-party games and higher prices for collectors.

Today, the N64 suffers from aging hardware. Composite video output looks muddy on modern TVs, and the system is prone to AV port damage due to heavy cartridge weight. While modding communities have created HDMI upgrades and power fixes, original units require careful handling. Still, its library includes some of the most influential games in history—titles that shaped modern game design.

Tip: If buying an original N64, look for the \"New Style\" model (NUS-1063) with a slimmer design and improved AV port durability.

GameCube: The Underdog That Matured

The GameCube arrived in 2001 as a compact, purple powerhouse. Though initially dismissed for its unconventional design and lack of DVD playback, it quietly built one of the strongest first-party libraries in gaming history. Titles like Super Smash Bros. Melee, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, Metroid Prime, and Pikmin are not only critically acclaimed—they remain actively played in competitive scenes today.

Unlike the N64, the GameCube used mini-DVDs, allowing for larger game sizes, full voice acting, and CD-quality audio. Its hardware is more reliable, with fewer reported issues over time. It also supports progressive scan via component cables (with supported games), delivering a much cleaner image than the N64’s standard composite output. For modern players, this means a noticeably better visual and audio experience without extensive modification.

“GameCube wasn’t the sales leader, but its technical consistency and developer-friendly architecture made it a hidden gem.” — Jason Schreier, Bloomberg News, gaming journalist

Comparing Key Factors in 2024

Choosing between these two consoles requires weighing several real-world factors: game availability, performance on modern displays, mod potential, and overall longevity.

Factor	Nintendo 64	GameCube
Video Output	Composite only (without mods); blurry on HDTVs	Component support (progressive scan in select games); much clearer picture
Load Times	Fast (cartridge-based)	Slower due to disc reading, but minimal once loaded
Game Library Size	~388 games; limited third-party support	~700 games; broader genre variety including RPGs and racers
Hardware Reliability	Fragile AV ports; aging capacitors	Generally robust; fewer mechanical failures
Modding Support	Strong (RGB, HDMI kits available)	Excellent (HDMI, USB loaders, memory card emulation)
Collector Value	High (especially rare carts like Banjo-Kazooie)	Moderate (full sets valuable, but less inflated than N64)

Real-World Example: A Parent’s Retro Upgrade

Consider Mark, a father of two in Portland, who wanted to introduce his kids to classic games. He started with an N64 he found at a thrift store for $40. Excited, he connected it to his 4K TV—only to be met with a fuzzy, distorted image. After researching, he spent another $60 on an RGB mod kit and soldering tools. The fix worked, but the controller ports were loose, and one joystick drifted after two months.

He then tried a modded GameCube with an HDMI adapter and a wireless WaveBird replica. The setup worked instantly. His kids loved Super Monkey Ball and Animal Crossing, and the picture was crisp. He later added a USB loader to access digital backups, eliminating disc wear. In the end, the GameCube required less maintenance, offered more kid-friendly games, and integrated better with his current tech.

Step-by-Step: Choosing & Setting Up Your Retro Console in 2024

1. Determine your primary goal: Are you collecting, playing competitively, or introducing classics to younger players?
2. Assess display compatibility: If using an HDTV, prioritize systems with clean video output or easy mod paths.
3. Check condition: Look for working AV ports, responsive buttons, and no disc drive errors (for GameCube).
4. Consider modding: Budget for HDMI upgrades or install a pre-modded unit if you want plug-and-play quality.
5. Build your starter library: Focus on genre diversity—platformers, fighters, RPGs—to maximize replay value.
6. Add accessories: Invest in a WaveBird or aftermarket N64 controller for comfort during long sessions.
7. Preserve originals: Use flashcarts or USB loaders to reduce wear on physical games.

Tip: For GameCube, enable progressive scan mode in supported games (e.g., Melee, Wind Waker) by holding B during boot for a sharper image.

FAQ: Common Questions About N64 vs GameCube in 2024

Is the N64 still worth buying?

Yes, but selectively. If you’re passionate about foundational 3D platformers and don’t mind modding or accepting visual limitations, the N64 offers unique experiences. However, it’s harder to maintain and integrate into modern setups.

Can the GameCube play Game Boy Advance games?

No, but it can connect to a Game Boy Advance via the Game Boy Player accessory, letting you play GBA titles on your TV. This adds significant value for fans of portable classics.

Which console has better multiplayer options?

The N64 pioneered four-player gaming with titles like GoldenEye and Super Smash Bros., but the GameCube expanded on it with superior games like Melee (still a competitive staple) and party hits like Super Smash Bros. Brawl and Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance. Controllers are also more durable and widely available.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?

If you're seeking the most enjoyable, sustainable retro experience in 2024, the GameCube is the smarter buy. It offers a richer, more diverse game library, better compatibility with modern TVs, and stronger support for mods that extend its life. Its games age more gracefully, with art styles that still charm and mechanics that hold up under scrutiny.

The N64 remains essential for historians and purists. There’s no substitute for playing Ocarina of Time on original hardware, feeling the rumble in your hands as Link draws the Master Sword. But for daily play, family use, or building a lasting collection, the GameCube delivers more value with fewer compromises.

That said, you don’t have to choose. Many enthusiasts own both—one for landmark experiences, the other for polished, enduring fun. But if budget or space limits you to one, let functionality guide you. The GameCube isn’t just better preserved—it’s better designed for today.

“The best retro console isn’t always the most iconic. It’s the one you’ll actually turn on.” — Patricia Hernandez, Senior Editor, Vice Gaming

Take Action Today

Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or introducing timeless games to a new generation, your choice matters. Don’t settle for blurry screens or broken controllers. Research, test, and invest in a system that works for your lifestyle. The past is worth revisiting—but only when it feels effortless. Pick your console, upgrade wisely, and press start on a gaming experience that lasts.

💬 Which console do you prefer—N64 or GameCube? Share your favorite game and why it still matters to you.