Software Developers & New Consoles Questions

[Ascending Wordsmith]

From what I understand, the manufacturers of a new console must provide software developers with 'tools' so they can begin making games for the hardware. As usual, some consoles are easier to programs for than others.

What are these 'tools' that software makers need to make games for new consoles?

Has there been any console that's given developers a hard time?

[Raccoon Lad]

Well, way back when I wasn't unemployed, I worked on a GameCube game. We had development hardware that included what looked like PC's with the Nintendo Dolphin logo on them, and gamecube controller ports on the back, and also special Gamecube Systems that accepted these big grey "harddrive cartridges" that you could play the game on.

I guess some of the other tools you get are code libraries with examples of how to program the hardware.