A recent listing on Japanese Yahoo Auctions has caught the attention of video game enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. An apparent pre-production version of the Super Famicom, the Japanese counterpart of the Super Nintendo (SNES), has surfaced. This prototype bears striking differences from the console that Nintendo eventually released in 1990, including a headphone jack and volume wheel on the side. Renowned video game collector and historian, Chris Kohler, has described it as “god-tier Nintendo collector bait.”
Upon closer inspection, it becomes evident that the prototype features a big red power switch and controller ports positioned on the left side of the console, deviating from the centered layout of the final production model. Additionally, the console’s expansion port is situated on the front, rather than the bottom as seen in the eventual design. The yellowed panel surrounding the controller ports adds a touch of nostalgia to the prototype, reminiscent of classic SNES consoles.
A comparison between the prototype and the final release highlights the evolution of Nintendo consoles over the years. While the prototype closely resembles early designs showcased in magazine scans from a 1989 Nintendo press demonstration, the final US release of the SNES took on a chunkier, boxier design with purple sliding switches on top. Subsequent iterations, such as the New-Style Super NES in 1997, featured minor design tweaks but maintained a distinct aesthetic compared to the original prototype.
The discovery of the Super Famicom prototype reignites interest in lost and unreleased Nintendo consoles. Notable examples include the Nintendo/Sony PlayStation prototype, acquired by Pets.com founder Greg McLemore, and an unreleased wired version of the Wiimote designed for the GameCube. These rare artifacts showcase the innovative spirit of Nintendo and the continuous evolution of gaming technology.
Auction Status and Value
As of the latest update, the Super Famicom prototype on Japanese Yahoo Auctions has garnered significant attention, with bids exceeding one million yen (approximately $7,000 USD). With several days left in the auction, the prototype’s value is expected to increase, reflecting the enduring allure of rare and collectible Nintendo memorabilia.
The emergence of the Super Famicom prototype offers a unique glimpse into the design process and evolution of Nintendo consoles. From early conceptualizations to final production models, each iteration contributes to the rich history of gaming innovation. As collectors and enthusiasts eagerly await the outcome of the auction, the legacy of these rare prototypes continues to resonate with fans of retro gaming and technological nostalgia.
Leave a Reply