Minecraft, a game that has managed to span across numerous platforms, including Xbox, PlayStation, 3DS, and PS Vita, has now found its way to the GameCube and Dreamcast, consoles that were released back in 2001. An indie developer, Meesedev, has taken the Beta 1.7.3 version of Minecraft as a foundation to create their own block-based game on these retro consoles.
Meesedev has managed to cram an impressive 25 million blocks into just 24 MB of RAM on the GameCube. Furthermore, they have boosted the render distance to 12 chunks, surpassing the render distance of Minecraft on Xbox 360, PS3, Wii U, and matching the Switch (docked). This feat was accomplished through a month of extensive optimization, showcasing the developer’s skills in pushing the boundaries of these aging consoles.
While the game currently utilizes Minecraft assets and gameplay mechanics to demonstrate the capabilities of the custom engine being built, Meesedev has made it clear that all Minecraft elements will eventually be replaced with original content. This unique project aims to offer a distinct gameplay experience, promising that players won’t be punching trees with their fists in this blocky world. The only similarity to Minecraft will be the blocky nature of the game.
In the world of Minecraft and its de-make on the GameCube and Dreamcast, the term “chunks” plays a crucial role. Chunks, a term coined by Mojang, refer to a procedural generation of 16 x 16 segment of blocks. To put things into perspective, next-gen consoles like the Xbox Series and PS5 can render around 30 chunks, making the achievement on the retro consoles even more impressive.
As Meesedev continues to work on their Minecraft-inspired game for the GameCube and Dreamcast, it is evident that their dedication to optimizing performance and creating a unique gameplay experience is unwavering. The de-make of Minecraft on these older consoles serves as a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of indie developers in the gaming industry. Players can look forward to exploring a blocky world unlike any other, where nostalgia meets innovation in a truly remarkable way.
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