As the Nintendo GameCube approaches its 25th anniversary, it continues to captivate a dedicated community of enthusiasts eager to collect its rarest editions. Among the most sought-after are the Panasonic Q, notable for its DVD playback capabilities—a feature absent in the standard GameCube—and various unique editions like the Mobile Suit Gundam Char Red console.
However, the rarest of all might be the 'Space World' GameCube, a prototype unveiled at the Nintendo Space World 2000 event. Believed to be lost forever, this LED-equipped prototype made a surprising comeback in 2023, thanks to 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 inserted, and has distinct vent designs. ConsoleVariations has documented over 20 differences between this prototype and the standard Japanese GameCube.
Currently, Donny Fillerup has listed this Space World 2000 GameCube on eBay for an eye-watering $100,000, with the intention of using the proceeds to fund a gaming venue where visitors can relive their youth. Notably, the console is being sold without its unique controller, which differs 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, fetching $36,000.
Given the historical significance of the Space World GameCube, could it really command a $100,000 price tag? While it's a hefty sum, the right buyer with deep pockets might just take it home. However, Fillerup remains open to offers, suggesting the possibility of a lower final sale price.
