"Rare 25-Year-Old 'Space World' GameCube Prototype Hits eBay at $100K"

The Nintendo GameCube, now nearly 25 years old, continues to captivate a dedicated fanbase eager to acquire its rarest editions. Among the most sought-after are the Panasonic Q, which uniquely plays DVDs, and specialized editions like the Mobile Suit Gundam Char Red console. However, the crown jewel of rarity might just be the 'Space World' GameCube, a prototype unveiled at Nintendo's Space World 2000 convention. This elusive piece of gaming history, once believed lost, was rediscovered in 2023 by Donny Fillerup at ConsoleVariations.

The Space World GameCube stands out from the retail version in several ways. Notably, it lacks functional hardware, featuring only LEDs to mimic power status. Physically, it sports a semi-transparent black logo at the top, allowing visibility of any inserted disc, and altered vent designs. ConsoleVariations reports over 20 distinct differences between this prototype and the original Japanese GameCube.

The GameCube revealed at Nintendo's Space World 2000 event. Image credit: Adam Doree.

Now, Donny Fillerup has listed this iconic Space World 2000 GameCube on eBay for a hefty $100,000. The intention behind the sale is to fund a "gaming place" where enthusiasts can relive their youth. Interestingly, the prototype's unique controller, which differs from the standard GameCube controller, is not included in the sale.

Fillerup is no stranger to dealing in rare gaming hardware. In 2022, he successfully auctioned off a Golden Wii, previously a gift to the British Royal Family from THQ, fetching $36,000. Given this precedent, the question arises: Could the historically significant Space World GameCube really command a $100,000 price tag? While it's listed at this price, Fillerup remains open to offers, suggesting the possibility of a lower final sale price. If you have the funds, you might just be able to own a piece of gaming history.