Which videogame console did Nintendo release directly prior to the Wii?

Before the cultural phenomenon of the Wii captivated households worldwide with its motion controls, Nintendo released a console that showcased its commitment to unique design and powerful graphics for its era: the GameCube. Launched in Japan in September 2001 and in North America in November 2001, the GameCube was Nintendo's fourth major home console, following the Nintendo 64. It marked a significant departure for the company, as it was their first home console to utilize optical discs, albeit proprietary miniDVDs, rather than the cartridge-based media of its predecessors. This compact, cube-shaped console, codenamed "Dolphin" during development, competed in the sixth generation of video game consoles alongside Sony's PlayStation 2 and Microsoft's Xbox.

Despite its distinctive appearance and a comfortable, ergonomic controller that even saw a wireless version called the WaveBird, the GameCube faced stiff competition in the market. Nevertheless, it became home to a beloved library of games, introducing new franchises like Pikmin and Animal Crossing, while also delivering critically acclaimed entries in established series such as Super Mario Sunshine, Metroid Prime, and The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker. The console also featured four controller ports, a staple for Nintendo's multiplayer focus, and even offered limited online play for a select few titles through an optional adapter.

The GameCube ultimately paved the way for its highly successful successor. When the Wii launched in November 2006, it famously included backward compatibility, allowing players to insert and enjoy their GameCube discs and even use their GameCube controllers. This bridge between generations highlighted Nintendo's evolving strategy, moving from a focus on raw processing power, which characterized the GameCube era, to the innovative, accessible gameplay that defined the Wii's widespread appeal. The GameCube was officially discontinued in early 2009, with first-party game development ceasing prior to that.