Rairii’s Innovative Port of Windows NT 3.51 to Nintendo GameCube
In a remarkable fusion of nostalgia and innovation, the mononymous security researcher and software preservationist Rairii has made significant strides towards realizing Bill Gates’ iconic vision of “Microsoft on every computer.” This ambitious endeavor has culminated in a successful port of Windows NT 3.51 for the Nintendo GameCube, a console that has long been celebrated for its unique contributions to gaming.
Rairii elaborates on the technical intricacies of this project, noting that “Windows NT 3.51 RTM [Release To Manufacturing] and higher are supported.” However, he also points out that earlier beta versions (build 944 and below) will necessitate kernel patches due to processor detection bugs. Notably, Windows NT 3.5 remains incompatible as it exclusively supports the PowerPC 601 architecture. While the additional suspend and hibernation features found in NT 3.51 PMZ could theoretically be adapted, Rairii emphasizes that practical implementation would require a comprehensive reworking of the necessary drivers.
The GameCube, which features an IBM PowerPC “Gekko” chip, now joins the ranks of devices capable of running Windows NT, a system that first debuted in 1993 under the banner of “New Technology.” Microsoft’s vision extended beyond x86 processors, as they developed builds for various platforms, including PowerPC. This architecture, a collaborative effort between Apple, IBM, and Motorola, was designed to challenge Intel’s dominance during its heyday. The PowerPC chip is perhaps most famously associated with Apple hardware until the company’s transition to Intel in 2006, but it also found a home in gaming consoles like the GameCube.
Launched in 2001, the Nintendo GameCube marked a significant shift in gaming technology by being the first console to utilize optical disks instead of cartridges, thereby reducing production costs and enhancing storage capabilities. At its core, the GameCube is powered by an IBM Gekko PowerPC chip operating at 486MHz, complemented by an ATi Flipper graphics processor running at 162MHz. This combination has proven sufficient not only for delivering memorable gaming experiences but also for supporting the functionality of Windows NT.
Rairii’s groundbreaking work enables selected PowerPC versions of Windows NT to boot on the GameCube, transforming the console into a makeshift desktop computer complete with its recognizable graphical user interface. Users can control the operating system using a standard controller, although a keyboard offers a more streamlined experience. The project includes support for the GameCube’s keyboard controller accessory and features a mapping system that allows users to navigate the mouse and selected keyboard keys using the gamepad. Additionally, there is theoretical support for Nintendo’s mouse accessory from the earlier Nintendo 64, although Rairii cautions that this aspect remains “completely untested” and may present challenges.
Furthermore, the project extends its capabilities to include some support for USB devices, albeit without hotplugging functionality. For those eager to explore this unique intersection of gaming and computing, instructions for attempting “Entii for WorkCubes” are available in the project’s GitHub repository. Interested users will need a Nintendo GameCube, Wii, Wii Mini with SD Card hardware modification, or a Wii U to embark on this intriguing journey.
