"Rare 25-Year-Old GameCube Prototype 'Space World' Up for $100K on eBay"

The Nintendo GameCube, now nearly 25 years old, continues to captivate a dedicated group of enthusiasts eager to acquire its rarest editions. Among these, the Panasonic Q stands out for its DVD playback capability, a feature absent in the standard GameCube. Additionally, there are numerous unique variants, like the Mobile Suit Gundam Char Red console.

However, the crown jewel of rarity might just be the 'Space World' GameCube, a prototype showcased at the Nintendo Space World 2000 event during the console's initial reveal. Believed to be lost forever, one of these LED-equipped prototypes resurfaced in 2023 at ConsoleVariations, discovered by Donny Fillerup.

The Space World GameCube prototype differs significantly from the retail version. Unlike the retail model, it lacks actual hardware, featuring only LEDs to simulate functionality. Visually, the black logo at the top of the unit is semi-transparent towards the bottom, allowing visibility of any disc inside, and there are variations in the vents. According to ConsoleVariations, there are over 20 differences between this prototype and the original Japanese GameCube.

Donny Fillerup from ConsoleVariations has now listed this Space World 2000 GameCube prototype on eBay with an astonishing asking price of $100,000. According to the listing, Fillerup aims to use the proceeds to fund a gaming venue where visitors can relive their youth.

Notably, the console is being sold without its accompanying controller, which also deviates significantly from the standard GameCube controller design.

Fillerup is no stranger to dealing in rare gaming hardware; in 2022, he auctioned a Golden Wii, previously gifted to the British Royal Family by THQ, for $36,000.

While a $100,000 price tag might seem steep, the historical significance of the Space World GameCube prototype could justify such a valuation. For those with deep pockets, owning this piece of gaming history is within reach. However, Fillerup is also open to offers, suggesting the final sale price could be negotiated lower than the listed amount.