In a thrilling twist that has caught the attention of gaming aficionados worldwide, the recently inaugurated Nintendo Museum in Kyoto, Japan, has unveiled a treasure trove of hardware prototypes just days before its grand opening. This unexpected reveal has excited fans, especially after some initial concerns about the museum's focus on Nintendo's rich history.

While the initial promotional material seemed to skim over the historic significance of Nintendo's creations, visitors are now being treated to an impressive showcase of prototypes spanning various iconic gaming consoles, including the Super Famicom, Virtual Boy, and even the Wii U. Many of these prototypes have never been seen before by the public, making this exhibit a must-see for gaming enthusiasts.

Among the first to experience the museum's offerings was a user named FarmboyinJapan, who took detailed notes during their visit to the second-floor "Storage" exhibition dedicated to the prototypes. Due to restrictions on photography, fans must rely on written descriptions and artistic approximations to visualize these unique designs.

Here’s a glimpse at some of the fascinating prototypes on display:

- **Super Famicom Prototype:** Featuring red buttons, this design will look familiar to some, but it represents a piece of gaming history.

- **Ultra 64 Controller Prototypes:** Before it became known as the N64, these prototypes showcased various designs, including one with a gleaming metal control stick and another featuring a minimalist center grip. The exhibit also displays the final clay mold of the controller design.

- **GameCube Prototype:** This prototype stands out with its translucent, greenish-blue color, lacking internal components, giving a peek into early designs.

- **Innovative Wii Remotes:** Among the unique prototypes, one resembles a fidget spinner with a D-pad and buttons, while another appears as an exaggerated D-pad littered with buttons.

- **Wii U GamePad Prototype:** This model is characterized by multiple lengthy cables and serves as a nostalgic reminder of Nintendo's foray into handheld gaming.

- **Virtual Boy Headset Prototype:** Made from clear plastic, accompanied by foam controllers, this prototype offers insights into the ambitious yet ultimately flawed portable 3D gaming experience.

The museum is not just a journey through the past but also highlights the evolution of Nintendo's handheld consoles with a collection of **Game Boy prototypes** that include an early model with a black body and red buttons, which initially advertised "Dot Matrix Game," as well as more advanced models that led to the design of the modern Game Boy.

Moreover, an intriguing DS prototype exhibits two horizontal screens, inviting comparisons to the layout of the innovative Nintendo Switch. Visitors are left to ponder how these early concepts shaped the devices we know and love today.

While the museum has recently opened its doors, the buzz surrounding these prototypes is already drawing in crowds from across the globe. Fans are sure to leave with their minds ignited by nostalgia and curiosity, wondering what other hidden gems may be stored away for future exhibits.

The Nintendo Museum's exciting launch solidifies its place as a pilgrimage site for gamers and collectors, promising to enrich the understanding of Nintendo's legacy. If you're a gaming history buff, this museum should undoubtedly top your bucket list!