The Nintendo GameCube, approaching its 25th anniversary, continues to captivate a dedicated community of enthusiasts eager to collect its rarest editions. Among these, the Panasonic Q stands out for its unique ability to play DVDs, a feature absent from the standard GameCube. Another coveted variant is the Mobile Suit Gundam Char Red console. However, the crown jewel of rarity is the 'Space World' GameCube, a prototype showcased at Nintendo's Space World 2000 event. Believed to be lost, this LED-equipped prototype made a surprising reappearance in 2023, discovered by Donny Fillerup of ConsoleVariations.
The Space World GameCube prototype is distinguished from the retail version in several ways. Notably, it lacks functional hardware, containing only LEDs to simulate operation. Physically, the black logo on the top of the console is semi-transparent at the bottom, allowing visibility of any inserted disc. Additionally, the vents differ, and there are over 20 total differences from the original Japanese GameCube, as detailed by ConsoleVariations.
Currently, Donny Fillerup has listed this rare Space World 2000 GameCube on eBay with an asking price of $100,000. The purpose of the sale, according to Fillerup, is to fund a gaming venue where visitors can relive their youth. Notably, the console is being sold without its unique controller, which deviates significantly from the standard GameCube controller.
Fillerup is no stranger to dealing in rare gaming hardware. In 2022, he successfully auctioned off a Golden Wii, originally a gift to the British Royal Family from THQ, for $36,000. Given this history, the prospect of the Space World GameCube fetching $100,000 does not seem outlandish. Potential buyers with deep pockets might have the chance to own this piece of gaming history, though Fillerup remains open to offers, suggesting the final sale price could be lower than the listed amount.
