Miracle Minecraft GameCube port now outperforms official Switch version

Miracle Minecraft GameCube port now outperforms official Switch version

As a seasoned gamer with decades of experience under my belt, I must say, I’m utterly amazed by the feat achieved by A Flock of Meese. This individual has managed to breathe new life into an old console, turning the Nintendo GameCube into a Minecraft powerhouse that outperforms its official Switch counterpart.


A fan-made Minecraft port to the Nintendo GameCube actually exceeds the game’s official Switch release. Despite the console’s age, one talented modder has managed to recreate Mojang’s beloved survival game in an extraordinary way. 

The miracle of Minecraft GameCube 

Skilled modifier A Flock of Meese has dedicated several months to developing a version of Minecraft for both the Nintendo GameCube and Sega Dreamcast. The objective is to replicate Minecraft in every aspect; however, the creator will not distribute the project until all its components are uniquely crafted.

The modder’s Minecraft GameCube port runs on the proprietary Meese Engine, allowing the creator to highly optimise the game for the aging hardware. However, the homebrew developer’s brilliant project is now outshining the official port running on Nintendo Switch. 

In a recent tweet, A Flock of Meese revealed the Minecraft GameCube port now renders at a further distance than the Switch version. Not just that, but the GameCube version’s render distance outperforms the Switch version in its more demanding Docked Mode. 

According to the developer, the render distance of the GameCube engine has been increased to 13 chunks, which is more than the render distance of the Switch (when docked).

The Gamecube game engine’s rendering range has increased to 13 chunks, outpacing Minecraft on the Switch (docked) in render distance. Cloud shadows now adapt and become softer during sunrise and sunset, adding a realistic touch to the visuals. #RetroGaming #IndieGameDev #GameDev #Dreamcast

— A Flock of Meese (@meesedev) August 26, 2024

How is this possible? 

Since Minecraft for GameCube utilizes a unique, custom-built engine, the replica of A Flock of Meese’s (a popular Minecraft level) has been specifically designed for Nintendo’s vintage hardware. Consequently, this allows the developer to optimize the survival game more effectively compared to contemporary adaptations, due to the GameCube’s older technical specifications.

Additionally, the recently released GameCube version lacks some key features found in the original game. At present, there’s no weather system integrated, and it primarily includes simple characters such as pigs and cows. Despite these limitations, it’s still remarkably impressive.

On the Nintendo Switch, Minecraft experiences some performance hiccups, but compared to this homemade version, it’s doing much more heavy lifting. To ensure smooth cross-platform play, Minecraft needs to match the capabilities of more robust consoles. Additionally, it simulates intricate situations that this imitation doesn’t even come close to replicating.

Indeed, I’ve been captivated by the marvel that is the Minecraft GameCube version. It’s a shining example of the creativity and tenacity of homebrew developers. When there’s a passion, there’s a path, and these dedicated individuals never fail to find one.

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2024-08-27 12:10