The "Nintendo Games" forum, which includes Retro Game Reviews, has been archived and is now read-only. You cannot post here or create a new thread or review on this forum.
Step #1: Determine Whether or Not You Even Want a GameCube
You can basically forego this entire post if you don't want a GameCube. It's a legitimate thing. The system itself is 200 smackers, without a game or memory card. Also, if you barely have any time to play it (college kids) you may not have time for it.
Step #2: Determine What You Want
Obviously, you'll want the actual console, most likely a game or two, memory card, and possibly a second controller.
Step #3: Figure out the Price
-Nintendo GameCube System: 200
-Games: 40-50 each
-Memory Cards:
-0.5 MB Nintendo Card: 10
-8 MB Interact Card: 25
-16 MB Panasonic/Nintendo Card: 40
-Extra Controller: 20
Grand Total: Way too much
Step #4: Determine What is Actually Necessary
Some people actually think they can get away with buying two to three games for the new console. It's not that absurd, my friend got a PS2 for Christmas, an extra controller, an 8MB memory card, and six games!!! Some of us are not as well endowed with that kind of cash and spending 300 for a system launch seems a little high to me. So basically, you're gonna have to cut down to one game, a memory card, and the system. Also, you'll still not get out without paying at least 270!
Step #5: The One Game
If you're a poor like me (which is why im tryin to win a game), you're only gonna get one game. Unlike the Nintendo 64 launch, there are several choices (N64 launch only had Pilotwings and Mario 64, others followed in the next month), and there is honestly no must-have title (Super Mario 64), so you have to make a decision. Several factors go into this choice; among these, the biggest one is "rentablility". This is my term, which basically means, "You can just rent it, it doesn't merit a whole purchase." Also, the length of the game (like an RPG) can also factor into the decision.
-Luigi's Mansion - I honestly don't think this game captures the absolute magnitude of awe you had with Super Mario 64; none of the games really do in the GameCube launch. It doesn't look like I'd have a very fun time with this game; something about it just feels different.
-Super Smash Brothers: Melee - Will most likely be a very good game. But then again, so was the original game. If you're like me, you'll probably get bored with it after a week or two (it just becomes less and less fun). You would probably be better off just renting this game from Blockbuster.
-Star Fox Adventures: Dinosaur Planet - Sad to say, this looks like it will most likely be the best launch game. It doesn't have the big draw, but this would be my pick. It looks like a good, long Zelda-like experience. It won't be the best game in the world, but it will keep you occupied for a few months. This could be the big adventure game that we'll be missing without a Mario or Zelda game.
-Wave Race: Blue Storm - Some of the most beautiful graphics on the GameCube will be featured in this game. It will be a great game, but it's only a racing game. Racing games can usually be beat during a rental, unless they feature a massive quest like Diddy Kong Racing. It lacks the length to make this your ONE game.
-Star Wars Rogue Leader: Rogue Squadron 2 - Once again, this will be an amazing game. The graphics are amazing, and it's more of the Rogue Squadron you love. What can you not love about this game? I would get it, except I really don't like flying games.
-All the Sports games - You can't waste your ONE game on a sports game. You rent sports games, you don't buy them.
You'll notice I neglected to mention Eternal Darkness, Resident Evil Zero, Pikmin, Crazy Taxi, SSX Tricky, and Phantasy Star Online: Version 2. These games don't come out at launch, but they'll all be out by Autumn. Of these, my big pick in Phantasy Star Online: Version 2, but I don't know if anyone could wait a month and half for a game. You can always get it for Christmas.
Step #6: Saving the Cash
Here's what you do: Take your paycheck, allowance, or whatever. Now, take the surplus off what you're likely to use and put it in the bank. The money is out of sight, out of mind. You can't spend it. Bring it out at launch.
Step #7: Neglecting your Game Boy Advance
You have to do this, I'm sorry. Either do that or no GameCube for you. There's always a last resort. Right now, or after you've finished reading this, get a sheet of paper and write down all the GBA games you'll get for the rest of the year. The top three should be Mario Kart, Golden Sun, and Sonic. Sonic comes out in feburary, you might not be thinking about your GBA for about a month after you get your GameCube, so you can take that off your list. Add whatever GBA game totals to the calculation of how much money you need to save.
That's it folks, that's all you gotta do to get a GameCube. To help, if you're over 16, get a job. If under 15, better start saving and if you got a GBA, probably shouldn't start bugging your legal guardian for another month to avoid that whole "I just bought you that Game Boy" nonsense.
> SR don't let newbies win *shame*
What are you on about??? My first and only GAD prize was won when I was a Newbie!! Believe it or not, it IS possible to win GAD. Just keep trying, Good luck.
> yeah, but you forgot about the games!!! you would be really disapointed if you
> got home and forgot to buy a game!
Look no.3 please. It says decide what else you'll want.
Win a game from SR!
Sonic
1. OF COURSE YOU'LL WANT A GAMECUBE!!!! Any Nintendo fan cannot go without 'the best' next-generation console!!
2. Get some money. You can't exactly scab £200+ off of your parents or friends can you! Get a job, and work hard. It's better than wasting your money on lottery tickets!!
3. Decide what else you'll want, games, another controller and a memory card will be esseantial. You may need to buy a multiplayer game to keep your mates amused aswell.
4. When you've got your money and know what you're getting, go out and get it. Or reserve it. You can reserve with SR for just £20!!
5. Take it home, and enjoy!! It'll be the best console you play, untill Nintendo release their next console.
So there you have it. This is my very rough, brief guide to getting a GameCube. I'm gunna do something similar to this, but maybe not straight after the launch date.
What are your guides and what do you think of mine??