For more than a year after its release, Sony’s PlayStation2 dominated the console scene. Times are changing, though, with the 2001 arrival of two competitors – Microsoft’s Xbox and Nintendo’s GameCube.

Xbox

Microsoft’s entry into the video-game industry was immediately met with skepticism. However, a solid system design and well-received launch has set the Xbox nicely on its way.

The large design still fits nicely where any other standard home entertainment piece does, and its sleek style gives the Xbox a unique look.

So far, the Xbox has shown it has a way with games, with its beautiful worlds, gorgeous effects and a clean, crisp look, as well as offering multiple sound options. The best is still to come, though, as no game has pushed the Xbox to its limits.

To ensure longevity, Microsoft has given the Xbox many welcome features, such as a hard drive and an Ethernet port. These not only save money, but guarantees players are ready to go when those features become necessary.

Xbox players do need a remote for the DVD features, and the extra controllers are pricey, but the Xbox is still a solid package for the price.

Games

From the get-go, Microsoft has shown a willingness to support its own system. Titles such as “Halo” prove the power of the Xbox, while other titles, such as the unique racer “Project Gotham Racing,” and sports titles “NFL Fever 2002” and “Amped,” have been good, but not great.

There does not seem to be a lack of support from third parties either, as ports of many of the PS2’s popular titles are showing up. These include sports games such as “SSX Tricky” and various others such as “Silent Hill 2” and the popular PC game “Max Payne.”

While some of these titles work better on the PS2, for which they were designed, others have been given new additions or use the Xbox’s power for a better playing game. The Xbox has not seen many exclusives beyond Microsoft’s titles.

Future

The Xbox will have a tough time taking a market share without some of the proven franchises on other systems, but it has the potential to attract some good developers who could make outstanding games on the Xbox.

Interesting titles such as “Brute Force” and “Elder Scrolls III” look like they will keep the Xbox fresh with new ideas, and there is a nice lineup of multi-platform titles on schedule as well. Also, the Xbox will be getting its share of exclusive or limited exclusive titles, such as “Jet Set Radio Future” from Sega.

Once online play becomes a more solid reality, the Xbox could open a new dimension to many gamers and give it an edge over competitors that will rely on a peripheral to connect.

Since Microsoft’s plans include additions such as voice chat, the Xbox has the potential to be the best system for online games as well as offer the most variety in future titles.

Nintendo GameCube

The GameCube is Nintendo’s latest foray into video games, and just like its predecessors, the GameCube proves Nintendo still knows what it’s doing.

The extremely small and compact GameCube fits almost anywhere. The small package is a charming look, although its colors are lacking. The system lacks many extras, such as memory cards, broadband adapters and extra controllers for some of the multiplayer games.

Titles so far show the GameCube can hold its own technically, but on average, it has been a bit behind the rest. This could change in the future, as titles such as “Rogue Leader” show the GameCube has the power inside to create visually stunning games.

Games

The GameCube has so far had the smallest game lineup, but it has offered several excellent titles. First and foremost has been the Star Wars title “Rogue Leader,” which is a prime example of how good a GameCube title can be.

Nintendo launched the system without a signature Mario game, but provided some great games to fill the void. “Smash Brothers Melee” and “Wave Race: Blue Storm” provide lots of entertainment just as their predecessors did, and “Pikmin” uses new ideas for a unique gaming experience.

The GameCube has seen its fair share of ports as well, but most do not play as well as their PS2 counterparts, such as “SSX Tricky” or “Tony Hawk 3.”

Future

It is easy to predict where the GameCube will be headed, as it will enjoy wonderful support from Nintendo with upcoming games such as “Mario Sunshine,” the new “Zelda,” “Metroid Prime,” “Eternal Darkness” and “Star Fox Adventures.” This first-party support should be enough for most gamers, but excellent third-party support, such as Capcom and the “Resident Evil” series or Sega and “Sonic,” is emerging.

The GameCube will use the Gameboy Advance for some very interesting cross-platform games, such as the upcoming “Kirby’s Tilt-n-Tumble” which will allow play on both systems at the same time. All that may be too much for some gamers to buy, though, and may not be an option for some.

Still, with GameCube’s power and Nintendo’s emerging ambition with the system, we should see a long and healthy life from the GameCube. If nothing else, we will get to see all our Nintendo favorites once again, as well as some new and unique titles.

Chris Weishaar is a sophomore in pre-journalism and mass communication from Bronson.