How "hardcore" were the N64 and Gamecube?

[Words Of Wisdom]

mike_intellivision said:

Xen said:
Hardcore enough to get some downright excellent exclsuives that are still very much adored today...

I am trying -- and failing -- to think of third-party exclusives that fit that definition.

I am trying -- and failing -- to see where Xen used the phrase "third-party" in his post.

PS:  Ogre Battle 64.