The article discusses a rare prototype of the Super Famicom, the Japanese version of the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), that has surfaced in an online auction. The prototype features several design variations from the final production model, including a big red power switch and controller ports located on the left side of the console rather than in the center. The front panel also appears to have an expansion port, which is a departure from the final design that placed it at the bottom. The yellowed panel surrounding the controller ports adds to the nostalgic charm of the prototype.
A comparison is made between the prototype being auctioned and the final release version as well as the US version of the SNES, which was known for its chunky and boxy design with purple sliding switches on top. Nintendo later released a revised version called the New-Style Super NES in 1997, which featured a pill-shaped power switch and circular reset button. The differences in design highlight the evolution of the console’s aesthetics over the years, showcasing the different iterations of the SNES that never made it to production.
The article also mentions another lost Nintendo prototype that surfaced a few years ago, known as the Nintendo / Sony PlayStation, which was purchased by Pets.com founder Greg McLemore at an auction. This prototype also featured a headphone jack, adding to its unique features. Additionally, an unreleased wired version of the Wiimote that connects to the GameCube was sold in a Japanese auction for $660. These rare prototypes and variations provide a glimpse into the innovative designs that never made it to market and the different directions Nintendo considered for its consoles.
As of the time of writing, the Super Famicom prototype being auctioned has reached just over one million yen (approximately $7,000 USD) with more than five days left in the auction. This high bidding price reflects the rarity and uniqueness of the prototype, attracting collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the history and evolution of gaming consoles. The interest in such rare prototypes highlights the enduring appeal of classic gaming systems and the nostalgia they evoke among fans of retro gaming.
Overall, the article showcases the significance of rare prototypes like the Super Famicom and their role in preserving the history of gaming consoles. These early designs and variations offer insight into the creative process behind popular consoles like the SNES and highlight the experimentation and innovation that went into their development. The auctioning of these prototypes also sparks interest among collectors and fans of retro gaming, driving up bidding prices and generating excitement around the rare finds in the gaming community. The diverse range of prototypes and variations from Nintendo’s history serve as a reminder of the company’s legacy in shaping the gaming industry and its enduring impact on gamers worldwide.