Rare two-player Computer Space arcade cabinet heads to auction amid retro tech sale
The sparkly green cabinet, estimated to fetch over $20,000, has attracted 12 bids totalling $6,748 as of 12 August 2026.
A rare, fully functional two-player Computer Space arcade cabinet is currently being auctioned by RR Auction, marking a significant moment in the sale of early video game hardware. The sparkly green machine, originally released in mid-1973, is being sold by David Perry, co-founder of the game streaming company Gaikai. The lot is featured as part of the 'Steve Jobs & the Computer Revolution: The Apple 50th Anniversary Auction Part Two', a collection dedicated to the history of the personal computer industry.
Computer Space, widely recognised as the first arcade video game, was originally released in late 1971. Designed by Nolan Bushnell and Ted Dabney of Syzygy Engineering and distributed by Nutting Associates, the single-player version was based on the 1962 PC game Spacewar!. While the initial release was a commercial success, the collaboration between Nutting and Syzygy ended shortly after, leading Bushnell and Dabney to form Atari and release Pong in 1972.
The specific cabinet up for sale is a two-player iteration produced by Nutting Associates without the involvement of Bushnell or Dabney. Released in July 1973, this version featured two original rotational joysticks topped with red 'Fire Missile' buttons and retained the 25-cent cost per round. The machine is described as being in fine condition, with a functional screen and original parts, despite some slight scuffing to the body.
As of 12 August 2026, the auction has received 12 bids totalling $6,748. The item is estimated to sell for more than $20,000. Perry, known for programming 1994’s Earthworm Jim, listed the machine on social media, noting he was selling it due to a lack of space and describing it as potentially the rarest arcade game in existence.
The auction concludes on 20 August 2026 at 7PM ET. Bidding must be placed by 6PM ET on the final day to participate in the last round, which extends until 7:30PM ET and allows for a final 30-minute window to challenge the top bid. The broader auction also includes personal belongings of Steve Jobs, vintage computers, and an Atari Video System X 'All Black' Prototype Console.
