The Nintendo GameCube, now approaching its 25th anniversary, continues to captivate a dedicated community of enthusiasts eager to acquire its rarest editions. Among these, the Panasonic Q stands out for its unique ability to play DVDs, a feature absent in the standard GameCube. Another sought-after variant is the Mobile Suit Gundam Char Red console. However, the crown jewel of rarity is the 'Space World' GameCube, a prototype showcased at the Nintendo Space World 2000 event during the console's initial unveiling. Believed to be lost, this LED-equipped prototype made a surprising reappearance in 2023, discovered by Donny Fillerup at ConsoleVariations.
The Space World GameCube prototype differs significantly from the retail version. Notably, it lacks functional hardware, featuring only LEDs to simulate operation. Physically, it sports a semi-transparent black logo at the top, allowing visibility of any disc inside, and exhibits variations in the vent design. According to ConsoleVariations, there are over 20 differences between this prototype and the original Japanese GameCube.
Currently, Donny Fillerup has listed this historic Space World 2000 GameCube on eBay with an asking price of $100,000. Fillerup's goal is to use the proceeds to fund a gaming venue where visitors can relive their youth. Notably, the console is being sold without its unique controller, which deviates from the standard GameCube controller design.
Fillerup is no stranger to the market for rare gaming consoles. In 2022, he successfully auctioned off a Golden Wii, once a gift to the British Royal Family from THQ, for $36,000. Given this track record, the question arises: is a $100,000 price tag for the Space World GameCube prototype too ambitious? While it's a significant sum, the console's historical significance might justify the price for the right buyer. However, Fillerup remains open to offers, suggesting the possibility of a lower final sale price.
