The Nintendo GameCube, celebrating nearly 25 years since its release, continues to captivate a dedicated fanbase eager to acquire its rarest editions. Among these coveted variants are the Panasonic Q, capable of playing DVDs—a feature absent in the standard GameCube—and the unique Mobile Suit Gundam Char Red console. Yet, the crown jewel for collectors might just be the 'Space World' GameCube, a prototype unveiled at the Nintendo Space World 2000 event. Believed to be lost to the annals of time, this LED-equipped prototype made a surprising reappearance in 2023, discovered by Donny Fillerup of ConsoleVariations.
The Space World GameCube stands out from the retail version in several ways. Notably, it lacks functional hardware, featuring only LEDs to simulate activity. Physically, it sports a semi-transparent black logo at the top, allowing visibility of any disc inside, and modified vents. According to ConsoleVariations, there are over 20 differences between this prototype and the original Japanese GameCube.
Now, Donny Fillerup has put this historic Space World 2000 GameCube up for sale on eBay, with an asking price of $100,000. Fillerup aims to use the proceeds to fund a gaming venue where visitors can relive their youth. Interestingly, the console's sale does not include its unique controller, which deviates significantly from the standard GameCube controller.
Fillerup is no stranger to dealing in rare consoles. In 2022, he auctioned off a Golden Wii, originally a gift to the British Royal Family from THQ, fetching $36,000. Given this precedent, the idea of the Space World GameCube selling for $100,000 might not be as far-fetched as it seems. With deep pockets, one could potentially bring this piece of gaming history home. However, Fillerup remains open to offers, suggesting that the final sale price might be less than the listed $100,000.
