Install a GC Loader in the Nintendo GameCube
The GC Loader is a hardware replacement for the GameCube’s disc drive. You remove the original optical drive and install an SD card reader in its place. From that point you launch games from an SD card — no laser problems, no scratch-damaged mini-discs, no sound of a spinning drive.
This is the most involved mod in this overview. But also the most durable solution.
What you need {#what-you-need}
- GC Loader — from Woozle or Extrems; the original version is recommended
- SD card (SD or MicroSD with adapter) — formatted as FAT32
- Phillips screwdriver (PH1 and PH2)
- Torx T8 screwdriver
- Spudger or plectrum
You're removing the original disc drive. You can keep it and reinstall it later if you want, but the mod is designed as a permanent replacement. Make sure you're certain about your choice.
Step by step
1. Open the GameCube and remove the disc drive
Follow the steps from the laser cleaning guide to open the GameCube and remove the disc drive. Keep the original drive somewhere safe.
2. Mount the GC Loader
The GC Loader fits in the same recess as the original drive. Secure it with the included screws or reuse the existing screws.
3. Connect the cables
Connect the GC Loader’s cables to the connectors on the motherboard. The ribbon cables are marked — follow the instructions in the packaging.
4. Prepare the SD card
Format an SD card as FAT32. Download the latest GC Loader firmware and copy it to the root of the SD card.
Create a games folder and copy your game files (ISO or GCZ format) into it.
5. Close the GameCube
Tuck all cables away neatly and close the housing. Insert the SD card into the GC Loader slot (accessible via the disc opening or its own slot depending on the model).
6. Test
Turn the GameCube on. The GC Loader menu appears — choose a game and start it.
GCZ is a compressed ISO format that takes up less space on the SD card. Most games are available in this format. The GC Loader supports GCZ by default.
Swiss: advanced management tool
Via the GC Loader you can also install Swiss — a homebrew tool that offers cheat codes, video settings and more. Swiss is the standard management interface for the GameCube modding community.