Bidding for the Nintendo-PlayStation Prototype Console Over $300k

Despite being one of 200 prototypes manufactured in 1992, Sony and Nintendo failed to remedy the strain that ultimately ended their partnership, stemming from the latter’s insistence on maintaining software control. The biggest nail in the coffin was Nintendo starting a new partnership with Phillips behind Sony’s back. Sony ultimately walked away to make their own console, the PlayStation, which was released in 1994 and began the rise of Sony’s leading stake in the console market. 

Nintendo PlayStation Super NES prototype

199 of the Nintendo PlayStation Super NES units were apparently destroyed, with the now-one-of-a-kind system being left in the hands of Sony Computer Entertainment’s first CEO, Olaf Olafsson, as he joined and became president of a banking company. In 2009, the banking company, Advanta, went bankrupt and the Nintendo PlayStation Super NES just happened to have been left behind as one of many assets found in the company’s office, being put up in a bankruptcy auction. 

Bought by former Advanta worker, Terry Diebold, the prototype seems to have remained mostly in his hands until now, being put up for auction by Heritage auctions at a starting bid of $15,000. Bidding exceeded $31,000 in a matter of hours and at the time of writing this article, stands at $350,000, which will go up to $420,000 when including Buyer’s Premium. 

Including a Super Nintendo-style controller with “Sony” & “PlayStation” emblazoned

In the auction’s description, Heritage goes into great detail specifying the Nintendo PlayStation Super NES’s history and condition. Being declared in full working order after testing via Mortal Kombat, the prototype plays Super Famicom and Super Nintendo games, but it can also play CD’s thanks to a repair of the drive by Youtuber and computer engineer, Benjamin Heckendorn. 

Being one of the most controversial, rarest and significant pieces in gaming history, the Nintendo PlayStation Super NES is sure to rack up more in the bidding war with 21 days left to go in the auction. 

Maybe whoever wins it feels generous enough to donate it to a museum. Maybe.