Sony Veteran Remembers 'Almost Finished' Video Game for the Canceled Nintendo PlayStation Console

Former PlayStation executive Shuhei Yoshida recently shared fascinating insights into his early career, including his experience with the legendary Nintendo PlayStation prototype. In an interview with MinnMax, Yoshida recounted his journey at Sony, beginning in February 1993 when he joined Ken Kutaragi's team—the team behind the original PlayStation. While the focus was on the console that ultimately launched, Yoshida and other new team members were also introduced to the Nintendo PlayStation prototype.

Yoshida described seeing a functional prototype and even playing an almost-completed game on it, his very first day. He compared the game's style to a contemporary space shooter, possibly Sega CD's Silpheed, highlighting its use of CD-based asset streaming. While he couldn't recall the developer's identity or location, he expressed optimism about the game's potential survival: "I wouldn't be surprised," he said, referencing the CD-ROM format.

The Nintendo PlayStation remains a highly sought-after collector's item, a testament to its unreleased status and the intriguing "what-if" scenario it represents. Its prototype has commanded significant attention in auctions and among collectors.

The possibility of this unreleased space shooter resurfacing is intriguing, especially considering Nintendo's own precedent with the eventual release of Star Fox 2 years after its cancellation. Perhaps one day, this lost piece of gaming history will finally see the light of day.