An unusual incident marked the early June launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 in Staten Island, New York. A GameStop employee accidentally damaged the console`s screen by stapling a receipt directly to the box. Turning this mistake into a positive outcome, GameStop is now leveraging the event to raise funds for a good cause. The company is auctioning off several items related to the incident, including the notorious staple itself, to benefit Children`s Miracle Network Hospitals.
The eBay listing for this charity auction includes a letter from GameStop CEO Ryan Cohen. He confirms that the four items offered are “authentic relics from the now-infamous `Staplegate` incident.” Cohen`s message also expresses hope that “while the incident itself was unfortunate, [GameStop] hope[s] its legacy serves a greater purpose.” In a rather eccentric addition, Cohen also mentioned including his underwear if the auction price reached six figures. It remains unclear if the winning bidder has the option to decline this specific item.
The four distinct items featured in the auction are:
- The original staple used in the incident, playfully described as “a retail legend born from a half-second decision”.
- The very Nintendo Switch 2 console involved, which has since had its screen repaired.
- The console`s original retail packaging, clearly displaying the visible mark left by the staple.
- The specific individual staple that caused the damage, which has been carefully extracted and preserved in a dedicated display pouch.
As confirmed by the eBay listing, all proceeds from the auction are designated for the Children`s Miracle Network. At the time of this report, bidding has surpassed $15,000, with the current highest bid standing at $15,500. The listing indicates that bids for this collection of items will be accepted until July 16th at 9:51 AM PT / 12:51 PM ET.