The Nintendo GameCube, now nearly 25 years old, still captivates a dedicated community of enthusiasts eager to own its rarest editions. Among these, the Panasonic Q stands out, as it uniquely allows DVD playback—a feature absent in the standard GameCube. Another coveted variant is the Mobile Suit Gundam Char Red console. However, the rarest of all might 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, this LED-equipped prototype made a surprising reappearance in 2023, discovered by Donny Fillerup at ConsoleVariations.
The Space World GameCube differs significantly from the retail version. 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 inserted disc, and 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 Space World 2000 GameCube on eBay with an astonishing 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 design.
Fillerup is no stranger to dealing in rare gaming hardware. In 2022, he successfully auctioned off a Golden Wii, once gifted to the British Royal Family by THQ, for $36,000. Given this history, it's not entirely implausible that the historically significant Space World GameCube could fetch $100,000. However, Fillerup is open to offers, suggesting the final sale price might be lower than the listed amount. If you have the funds, you might just be able to own a piece of gaming history.
