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

The Nintendo GameCube, now 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 DVD-playing capability, a feature absent in the standard GameCube, alongside other rare variants like the Mobile Suit Gundam Char Red console.

However, the most elusive of all might be the 'Space World' GameCube, a prototype unveiled at the Nintendo Space World 2000 event. Long believed to be lost, this LED-equipped prototype made headlines again in 2023 when it was discovered by Donny Fillerup at ConsoleVariations.

The Space World GameCube differs from its retail counterpart in several ways. Notably, it lacks actual hardware, featuring only LEDs to simulate operation. Its physical distinctions include a semi-transparent black logo that allows 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 listed this rare Space World 2000 GameCube on eBay with a hefty price tag of $100,000. His aim is to use the proceeds to fund a gaming venue where visitors can relive their youthful gaming experiences. Notably, the console's listing does not include its unique controller, which also deviates from the standard GameCube controller design.

Fillerup is no stranger to trading in rare gaming hardware; in 2022, he successfully auctioned a Golden Wii, once a gift to the British Royal Family from THQ, for $36,000.

Given its historical significance, the notion of the Space World GameCube fetching $100,000 isn't entirely implausible. Potential buyers with deep pockets might have the chance to own this piece of gaming history, though Fillerup remains open to offers, suggesting a possible sale for less than the listed price.