Toys R Us pre-orders begin 10/29, Wii Pre-orders 10/13 at EB/GS are done

[RandyTsai]

all ps3 units are spoken for at pomona, and city of industry.

[Mad-B-Man]

K, seems that I'm not going, Cerritos and out as mentioned, and my friend called La Mirada, IIRC, they only had 5, with 6 people already there.

Curse working! I could have been there sine 10 otherwise! Oh well, no biggie, I'll just wait.

[Dhuk]

If you're not waiting in line right this moment, chances are, you're not getting a preorder from Toys R Us.

Yup, like I said, soccer moms, the regular toy scalpers, ebayers, gamers. It also dosen't help they're doing preorders on a Sunday, which alot of people have off. If there were as many TRUs as EBGames then the majority might have a good shot. And who knows just how many they will really receive.

IF BB goes the preorder route, please let it be on a Tuesday. heh

[oNeWiNgEdAnGeL]

It basically seems like all the preorders are taken already in Southern California.

Can't wait until November campfest. Fuck preorders.

[jely]

few people were there setting up 2 tents out front of the door @ around 4p CT today at the West Dundee, IL TRU. I went in and the employees were all talking about it and amazed that folks were camping.

[rarebucky]

The TRU in Union NJ (Morris Ave) are rejecting all inquiries about PS3. They told me that they will only receive 3 units and there are already 3 people waiting outside.

LOL - yup, same situation at every TRU in NJ/NY. Anyone in the region reading this can just forget about it. Even TRUs as far from the city as Livingston already have up to 50 people camped out. RIDICULOUS.

[MPDXrules]

what pisses me off is the never ending loop of ps3 on ebay. I bet more than 60% of pre orders are ebay bound. Checking out the line today I saw only adults in their 30s to 40s. These people are not gamers, only ebay junkies with nothing better to do. I guess I will have to buy a bundle next year. I am def seeing a trend where I am relaying on online more than the B and M stores. These people are really getting on my nerve, Knowing full well they already have an ebgames pre order up on ebay and are just hoging for another one.

[Hbomb5]

Here in Ft. Myers, FL, 20 Wis, 8 PS3s, and a line already forming. A buddy and I were planning on camping out, but if the line's too long, there'll be other chances.

[Shadow780]

If you're in NY/NJ area, don't bother to go now, there's no spot for PS3s left, maybe some Wii spots left.

[Scotty P]

anybody checked the Cary, NC TRU yet? Need to know whether or not to try and get a Wii preordered or wait for launch.

[TiKi2]

^^ I live in south FL. I was going to go to TRU tommorow mourning, but after reading all these post of people waiting in line already I think I'll just pass. I only wanted a wii. I dislike sony.

[Rig]

Well, I was gonna camp with a friend, but that's pretty much out the window now. We called the local TRU, and they are only getting "less than five PS3's, but we cannot tell how you how many." And she said there's already two people in line.

[CorruptionDee]

Well I went to make an effort for the PS3, but came up short. I went to Times Square at about 4:00pm with my friend, and when we arrived, much to my surprise, there was already like 40 or 50 people on line. So as you can imagine, my friend and I bailed out of there fast. My first instinct was to call the Toys 'R' Us in the Bronx, to see if I'd have any luck there. So the first location I called was in Bay Plaza, and they told me they were doing 12 pre-orders. I then proceeded to ask them how many people were on the line. The lady told me there were already 8 people. I headed straight down there, and called again. The customer service rep told me not to bother, since there were already 12 campers, and it was only 5pm. So I called the next Toys 'R' Us in the Bronx, in the Bruckner mall. They told me they were receiving 11 units, with only 7 people on line. I grabbed a cab and headed straight over there. When I got there, there were actually 13 people. The problem was that more than half of these people were related. In other words, a couple of guys went with their brothers, cousins, and friends. In fact, one of the people on the line was a guy who worked there, in the 'R' Zone no less. He was on the line with his brother as well. So in short, I struck out. And if this is what it takes to get a damned pre-order, I'll pass for now. I do want a PS3, but not THAT bad. Hopefully I'll still have a shot at a Walmart or EB Games bundle online.

[Michaellvortega]

I checked 2 Milwaukee area Toys R us. Both have had campers since 9am :(
Thats a little 2 far to go 48 hours waiting, I waited 45mins at EB games for my PS3 and 15 mins for my Wii

[leapfrogX]

TRUs in West Lafayette and around Detroit all seem to have more people in line already than pre-orders available...craziness.

[kcwhite]

Has anyone checked Queens?

[Zmonkay]

Ok, for those near Joliet IL, give it up.

Joliet IL TRU
Time: 5:30
# of people in line: 12
Number of PS3's: 8 (said they were doing 20 Wii reservations, but I'm not concerned about that given the huge number of Wii's the big N will have out by Christmas)

[CheapLikeAFox]

My TRU in Hurst said it was doing lottery and to show up around 10:30 to get a ticket...I for one am happy.. no need to camp out and get a fair chance to get one...

[paddlefoot]

Dang!!!!

I just thought the one possibility was that people would be waiting right after they closed tonight, not at 5:30 p.m.

[SkyGheNe]

My TRU in Hurst said it was doing lottery and to show up around 10:30 to get a ticket...I for one am happy.. no need to camp out and get a fair chance to get one...

I envy you in every way imaginable.

[MadChedar0]

Austin, TX TRU @ Lamar/Mopac/290:

5 PS3s + 15 Wiis

There's been around 15 people since 3pm.... (probably more now)

Eff that I say- I'll go on launch day.

[Dr Mario Kart]

Regarding not allowing campouts until designated times, I dont see how they can kick us off the lot if we are sitting in our cars, given campouts like black friday and things like that. Oh Javeryh?

[ITDEFX]

I saw a sign at the fairlakes, va today.. 1 basic ps3 and 6 premiums at 10am..one per guest

[Nick]

La Mesa, CA TRU

has campers allready...was planning to camp with a friend around 8 P.M. tonight but they had more campers then there were systems (6 total) at 1:20 when I checked. :(

[DawgOnU]

FAYETTEVILLE, NC Toys R Us is only gettin 5 PS3 1 $600 & 4 $500 as 0f 8:15pm there where 6 people in line already. Not real sure on the Wii's.

[exceed19]

York PA toys R us is busted.. 6 pre's, and 6 campers...

fuckers
:)

[SkyGheNe]

Regarding not allowing campouts until designated times, I dont see how they can kick us off the lot if we are sitting in our cars, given campouts like black friday and things like that. Oh Javeryh?

They can't legally do shit like tow your car and other things like that. It's in the goddamn parking lot for christ's sake. Also - it's not loitering when you have a specific purpose - you're there for the damn pre order.

So I don't know how anyone could REALLY have a problem with waiting in line using a bit of logic.

[jbcaco]

so i didnt know about this toys r us preorder till like an hour a go. called my local toys r us and they have 1 60 gb and 5 20 gb and 10 wiis. called a buddy that lives near there and says theres no one in line :) . hopefully hes right im heading out there now! its in louisiana btw.

[mbartholow]

Altoona PA TRU has 6 PS3's and 5 or 6 campers (couldn't quite tell). 15 Wii's to go around.

Not brave enough to join the line on a day that has ALREADY seen snow. Good Luck!

(But, GF wore beautiful coat, looking adorable and I got my Chibi-Robo!!!!)

[Dhuk]

Someone said lottery system, that sounds like a great idea actually. But a little late for that.


If you guys are real desperate for a spot, since you keep syaing the same thing, over and over, stand in line and offer bran muffins, lol, watch as you move up on the list.
:twisted: Yes, cheat the system.

[malrock]

I just left there at about 8:30 pm. Only 3 people waiting outside, not too shabby ^_^ I would wait out there if I didn't already pay for both at EB.

[paddlefoot]

York PA toys R us is busted.. 6 pre's, and 6 campers...

fuckers
:)

That's right by me dude!!!! Ha!

I am not waiting 12-16 hours to pre-order a system.

You can also try the 2 stores in Harrisburg (Capital City Mall and Harrisburg East Mall) and Lancaster (across from Park City)

[shinclyde]

20-30 people in mcallen TX since 3pm, too crazy for me to preorder, lol

[mikkymuffins]

Just got back from 2 TRU's - Beavercreek and Miamisburg, OH

Both stores are getting 5 PS3's and they are all spoken for.

There are still spots open for Wii preorders.

[somahead33]

Drove by the ToysRUs in Covina, CA at 5pm. At least 15 people waiting in line. Not worth the 18hr wait for a videogame system. I am sure I will be able to snag a Wii come launch but the PS3 is gone from my radar for some time.

[SpikeSpiegel]

I wonder if launch will be any worse. It will hopefully be dispersed between stores instead concentrated all at one.

[Ricochet]

called the toys r us in waterbury, CT and there are already "a few people in line." I was going to wake up at 5 am and camp, but I'm not too sure now.

[Oops! I did it again.]

LOL the woman at my TRU was in no mood to talk Wii with me.

I just called and asked if they were opening at 11AM (normal time) or earlier, she gave me a very quick and drained "11." So I asked about how many Wii pre-orders would be available: "10." Very mean tone with each answer, but I guess I'm probably the millionth person to ask. I didn't even have the heart to ask her if there were people outside already...

I'm just going to stick to the original plan: show up three hours early, look at the line, wait if it looks reasonable, and bounce outta there and grab breakfast if it looks nasty. It's too far down the highway for me to just go by tonight and check, though.

[lukewarmwater]

Chico, Ca and Yuba City, Ca ps3's all spoken for, not many for wii's though.

[Frosty The Batman]

Heading over to the Hyannis, ma store. It's late in terms of camping i guess but not to far out the way it'll matter. I like the TRU in Hyannis cause I can always seem to find the good clearance games there. If that fails I'll go to the TRU in Kingston that I now work at. And if that fails me and my friend will just grab 2 TMXs each and be on our ways.

Hopefully I come back here with more than a cold in the morning. Or maybe I'll be back in an hour with a cold and nothing.

[DomLando]

I was in the Freehold, NJ TRU today around 3 pm. There were about 10 people camping already. Crazy....

[judyjudyjudy]

Bleh, checked out the TRU in San Jose near Valley Fair for the B2G1 sale around lunchtime today, and there were already several people in the PS3/Wii line. We're not going to camp out, so it looks like no Wii preorder for us :( We'll still check out local TRUs tomorrow morning tho.

[Crono139]

I just wonder how the lines will be at around launch time.

[gaelan]

rolled up on my tru at 930pm...looked like a bunch of fucking bums and bagladies out there. no way in hell i'd camp with those sorry looking fucks. i'm talking old people....wish i had a camera. i'll probably go up there in the morning to see if anyone died in the cold weather and take their place in line. wanted to ask if they were camping for little johnny's xmas gift or ebay but didn't.

[ScorpioKyle]

when i left work, we already had the 6 campers to go with our 6 preorders in st. pete, FL

[halofreak64]

i live in little port charlotte fl and there was more than 10 people camping outside at 5pm o well im going to camp out at wallmart for like a week.

[anubis20]

TRU in fair lakes VA has a bunch of campers came back home, not too worried since i have one already at gamestop.

[anubis20]

funny thing is people are getting an extra hour of waiting thanks to daylight savings, seems TRU wanted campers to suffer, 14+ hours no thanks

[doc005]

In johnson city,NY there were already 10 people camping out at around noon

[KingofOldSchool]

When I picked up the gf at 10:30 there was at least 12 people out there waiting. She said they've been there since 6 pm.

What morons. I hope they decide to do the lottery system just to fuck with them.

[anch]

All 7 PS3 are camped as i went at 4pm. There are 3 ppl in Wii line. I might go back tommorrow morning.

[nikkai]

First person for Ps3 was at noon. Last person was at 5pm.

Oh well. I feel dumber and dumber every time for not jumping on the Tuesday gamestop preorder. But then again it was preorder, or fail a class and not b/c a pharmacist... which in the long run is probably a better investment. =P

[MadChedar0]

***** Check It ****

My sources tell me all Austin TRU security guards have kicked everyone out of line... until 4am.

So check your local TRU if the lines have been disbanded & some people might have a chance now

[Kfoster1979]

***** Check It ****

My sources tell me all Austin TRU security guards have kicked everyone out of line... until 4am.

So check your local TRU if the lines have been disbanded & some people might have a chance now

Not at my TRU, Nice Big Signs saying line up here and the manger told them to have a nice night(its about 40 degrees right now 11:54pm and wind gust up to 50mph)... Is it just me or if I have to make a 12+ Hour wait I want my console right then not 20 days later.

[Shadow780]

First person for Ps3 was at noon. Last person was at 5pm.

Oh well. I feel dumber and dumber every time for not jumping on the Tuesday gamestop preorder. But then again it was preorder, or fail a class and not b/c a pharmacist... which in the long run is probably a better investment. =P

well I'm majoring in Finance, skip class for one day is not that big a deal.

I'm ready to skip two day of classes when launch date for PS3 comes...

[KingofOldSchool]

I'm just getting my 360 within the next week, so this fuss over these new systems doesn't get me too excitied. I just like laughing at the tards who feel it's that important to wait 14 hours in the cold just for a CHANCE to reserve the system.

[Ikohn4ever]

wonder what my odds are if I get there like 8 am tomorrow...cause its like in the 40s here and windy as all hell, I for sure aint waitin 5-10 hrs for it outside.

[Kfoster1979]

wonder what my odds are if I get there like 8 am tomorrow...cause its like in the 40s here and windy as all hell, I for sure aint waitin 5-10 hrs for it outside.


I was wondering the Same, so I drove up to my TRU around closing time found out the allotment went back out took a straw poll and said have a have a nice night. The ps3 allotment was gone if all stay in line and the Wii had about 5 spot still.

[shibbyshoo]

Over here (southern MD) people have been standing in line since this morning for the PS3s. My TRU is getting 8 PS3s and 30 Wiis. I checked at around 8PM and no one was there for the Wii at all. Hopefully I can just drive up there around 10 tomorrow and get a wii haha

[dpatel]

Thanks for the heads up OP. Turns out, people have been camped out at TRU since Friday here in Plano. Damn the weekend!

[Lou-Dawg]

wonder what my odds are if I get there like 8 am tomorrow...cause its like in the 40s here and windy as all hell, I for sure aint waitin 5-10 hrs for it outside.

Your odds are zero man. The PS3 spots are already camped out for all across the country. My report from Tucson, AZ: seven spots, already seven campers. The guy with the first spot in line offered to sell me his spot. I already have one on pre-order at EBGames, so I declined.

[KingofOldSchool]

wonder what my odds are if I get there like 8 am tomorrow...cause its like in the 40s here and windy as all hell, I for sure aint waitin 5-10 hrs for it outside.

You have a better shot at the PS4.

[shibbyshoo]

You have a better shot at the PS4.

hahaha

[daveymark]

Your odds are zero man. The PS3 spots are already camped out for all across the country. My report from Tucson, AZ: seven spots, already seven campers. The guy with the first spot in line offered to sell me his spot. I already have one on pre-order at EBGames, so I declined.

how much did the piece of scum ebayer want for the spot?

[Ikohn4ever]

I should have stated this, I am only interested in the Wii and my store is getting 15-19

[anch]

You have a better shot at the PS4..
oh noes, do i have to get a PS3 in order to preorder for PS4?
But if you are getting a Wii, take a shot at it.

[Thomas96]

is anybody out there spending the night for a Wii?

[xDerekRx]

What abou the ELMOs? Was there a line fo those?

[jbcaco]

im outside the local TRU store. only 2 people- me and my buddy. talked to the employees and they were right about the 6 ps3's. im first in line and my buddy is second.

[runtothesun]

Which TRU?

[CorruptionDee]

I really don't think it's worth camping out hours on end, just to reserve a system for launch. Especially, when there's a chance that you might get shafted anyway, by Sony's terrible shipment numbers. I want the system, but nowhere near as much as I wanted the 360 last year. I'm not saying that I'll give up on getting the system, but if by some chance, I have to wait till' next year, that's fine by me, seeing as how all the good PS3 games are coming out next year. Motorstorm? Delayed till' 07'. Heavenly Sword? Delayed till' 07'. Warhawk? Delayed till' 07'. Pretty much any other noteworthy game at launch, with the exception of Resistance, will be availible on the Xbox 360.

[romeogbs19]

I really don't think it's worth camping out hours on end, just to reserve a system for launch. Especially, when there's a chance that you might get shafted anyway, by Sony's terrible shipment numbers. I want the system, but nowhere near as much as I wanted the 360 last year. I'm not saying that I'll give up on getting the system, but if by some chance, I have to wait till' next year, that's fine by me, seeing as how all the good PS3 games are coming out next year. Motorstorm? Delayed till' 07'. Heavenly Sword? Delayed till' 07'. Warhawk? Delayed till' 07'. Pretty much any other noteworthy game at launch, with the exception of Resistance, will be availible on the Xbox 360.

I'm with you, man. Heavenly Sword is the ONLY game I want on PS3 thus far, but a part of me worries that it's going to wind us as a slicker version of dynasty warriors ... I honestly think the ONLY reason to get one is to sell it on eBay and reap the profits. Otherwise, there's no game-play reason in this launch line-up. This is why I have never bought a PS system at launch -- the only machine I've ever picked up at launch is Gamecube (Rogue Leader said "buy me") ;-)

[Aconitic]

I was at my toysrus when the first guy came (around 2:30), then an hour later a family came ..5 people with tent and sleeping bags.

im about to go out and bring them hotdogs, soda, and chips

I was thinking 4 bucks for a meal, that a good deal? or maybe three bucks. Im sure most are too afraid to give up there seat to get food. so im doing them a favor..and making some money because i didnt feel like waiting 20 hours.

[Morpheus]

I was cruising around with a friend to see how it was like and this is what I saw:

http://i13.tinypic.com/2mht1yv.jpg
Totowa TRU

http://i14.tinypic.com/34q44du.jpg
Totowa TRU again

http://i14.tinypic.com/2iaylqo.jpg
Totowa TRU from afar

http://i14.tinypic.com/47ttnnt.jpg
Rt 4 Paramus TRU (This one doesn't open on Sunday, but a Monday)

http://i13.tinypic.com/33codgo.jpg
Rt 17 Paramus TRU (Success we found one that was empty but doesn't open until Monday)

http://i14.tinypic.com/309q2ie.jpg
Rt 17 Paramus TRU (More people arrived, Failure. We decided it was too cold to camp out for almost two days for a PS3 and pushed the bail out button. Plus, it didin't help that we already had preorders for Wii and PS3 at Gamestop. :D )

BTW I don't know who the fuck that guy was that kept on popping up in my pics at all the TRUs. He's like the devil camper. Can be at all areas at the same time. Keep an eye out for him next time you are out camping. :D

[thagoat]

NICE PICS. doesn't look like you came prepared for a 2 day camp out though. i can see why you bailed.

[somahead33]

I can't stop laughing at the guy in all of your pictures. No night is ever boring for him.

EDIT: On closer inspection, it almost appears as though he were a cardboard cutout, constantly rocking the peace sign pose.

[motorkill]

I was cruising around with a friend to see how it was like and this is what I saw:

*pics removed*

Rt 17 Paramus TRU (More people arrived, Failure. We decided it was too cold to camp out for almost two days for a PS3 and pushed the bail out button. Plus, it didin't help that we already had preorders for Wii and PS3 at Gamestop. :D )

BTW I don't know who the fuck that guy was that kept on popping up in my pics at all the TRUs. He's like the devil camper. Can be at all areas at the same time. Keep an eye out for him next time you are out camping. :D
Thanks for the pics. I was gonna go take my sister to the tru in Totowa so she could reserve a Wii for her son but now know to not even bother . Damn, windy as hell out there right now too. Kind of feel bad for those people.

[shadylane]

isn't it daylight saving times too damn these fucks have to wait an extra hour haha! btw what time does tru open?

[xDerekRx]

Mine open at 10am Sunday.

I blew it so now Im gnna just go grab ELMOS for some ebay cash which will equal a cheaper PS3

[njchris]

I was cruising around with a friend to see how it was like and this is what I saw:BTW I don't know who the fuck that guy was that kept on popping up in my pics at all the TRUs. He's like the devil camper. Can be at all areas at the same time. Keep an eye out for him next time you are out camping. :D

No Wayne / Preakness Toys R Us Pics?????

I want a Wii!!!!

Hey, that guy in all your pics looks familiar.....

[Crono139]

Mine opens at 10, too.

There was at least 10 people, and two tents when I strolled by mine at 10 PM.

No thanks.

[halofps360]

I was cruising around with a friend to see how it was like and this is what I saw:


pics removed


Rt 17 Paramus TRU (More people arrived, Failure. We decided it was too cold to camp out for almost two days for a PS3 and pushed the bail out button. Plus, it didin't help that we already had preorders for Wii and PS3 at Gamestop. :D )

BTW I don't know who the fuck that guy was that kept on popping up in my pics at all the TRUs. He's like the devil camper. Can be at all areas at the same time. Keep an eye out for him next time you are out camping. :D


Thanks dude i was actually planning to go to 1 of the paramus toys r us's but considering theres the serial killer gamer dude and 3 other guys it all depends on how many ps3s theyre getting ya no?

[jollydwarf]

The best part about all this? Daylight Savings Time! An extra hour of sitting in the blustery cold!

So damned glad I got my Wiiorder (sorry) out of the way at Gamestop (waiting less than 3 HOURS, I might add...not such a bad deal now, hunh?). With any luck, my last moment of linesitting for a console ever. I'm too old for this s***.

EDIT: Sorry, shadylane. I didn't see your post, ergo (vis-a-vis, concordantly, therefore...) I wasn't trying to rip your joke.

EDIT 2: From the sound of the last three pages of posts, I have to believe that at least two-thirds of the PS3 linesitters are eBay 'scum and villainy'. I hope it does turn out where 80% or more of the launch PS3s are eBayed and therefore all the listings drive each others' values massively down. So poetic. Those motherfuckers deserve nothing less/more.

[romeogbs19]

Sadly, most of those people are going to be disappointed. Most TRUs in our area aren't getting more than 6 so that's a lot of waiting for what may be nothing.

Crazy, though ;-) As for those pre-ordering Wiis, they'll be plenty of 'em, I doubt stock is going to be as big an issue with Wiis compared to 360.

[Wolfpup]

I'd LOVE it if Sony actually has 10 million PS3s for the US, and all these idiot eBayers are stuck with systems that are good for exactly one thing...playing games :)

[Dr Mario Kart]

and all these idiot eBayers are stuck with systems that are good for exactly one thing...playing games :)

and a good half of them wont even be good for that! BA-ZING

[Daring]

A no go @ the TRU on Elk Grove, CA. Just came back and there are about 15 people camping. I went to check on the line to see if I can pick one up early in the morning. Looks like I will be able to get my beauty sleep tonight/tomorrow after all.

[io]

I made a last run for the B2G1 at TRU and was shocked to see a full line of campers outside the store at 3pm on Saturday. The Rzone guy said they will take 8 preorders and the line was already to that size (looked bigger to me, actually, but maybe some were friends and family). I didn't ask how long they had been there. One guy went out to his truck and brought back a crock pot of some super-stinky soup, making me think they had been there a while already. This was in Tigard, OR. The weather is good, but kind of cold tonight - could have been worse here this time of year though with the potential for rain. But it was a nice beautiful day here for USC to lose to OSU, not that I care too much (I'm a Cal grad). I actually missed the second half of that game to go buy cheap games :D.

[m24e9l]

I went to TRU IRving, TX today around 2 pm, and there were like 5 people outside, and after that I went to TRU in Dallas, TX (75 & walnut hills), there were like 4 people outside made a line........both will open tommorow at 11 am.

[rcaido]

Yeah i went to the b2g1 free also & saw a line...I thought there will be no line for me oh well...Dude told me there will be only 4 PS3 & 10 Wiis, & 45 TMX Elmos...

Quite different from what i was told a few days ago...They told me whatever pre-order they get from the Wii that's the amount that will be shipped...I'll probably stop by there tomorrow & get an elmo...

[Oops! I did it again.]

I'm up at 6AM but I figure I don't want to actually be at TRU 'til 8AM or so...at this point, I don't think an hour or 90 minutes is going to make too much of a difference (either there ARE a lot of early birds taking all of the Wii units or there aren't). Fingers crossed, but I'm honestly expecting that this trip will end up being for nothing more than a fast food breakfast and some coffee...but hey, you never know.

[woodylobster227]

just got at tru and I thought I wouldn't have a chance at getting a preorder and to my astonishment there were only 4 people in line. oh ntw it's 6:15

[onacouch]

I called my TRU last night an hour before they closed and he said that the line already met their allotment. He then added that people had been waiting since 11AM yesterday morning.

[bsesb2003]

What happens when those 4 say they are holdings spots for 4 others? The numbers are so small, I hope the lines go well.

[scientificmapp]

I saw those losers in front of toys r us since 9 am yesterday. May I add that it was a really cold night. There's got to be easier ways to make $300-400 bucks. I'll wait until after the holidays when everyones need to have the system dies down.

[gaelan]

The numbers are so small, I hope the lines go well.

my prediction:
http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Photos/050816/050816_laptop_hlg_2p.h2.jpg
(http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Photos/050816/050816_laptop_hlg_2p.h2.jpg)

[pete5883]

I was in the Freehold, NJ TRU today around 3 pm. There were about 10 people camping already. Crazy....
I drove by this TRU at 2:30AM this morning - about 10 people were outside the TRU, and there were probably about 10 cars sitting in the fire lane. They seemed to have formed a line of cars?

[Frogger]

anyone else just saying "fuck it" and showing up at BB early on Nov 19 to just buy the damned thing?

that's my plan...

and like others said, if the obvious fails, then go to sams club or bj's to get one there...

[gaelan]

I saw those losers in front of toys r us since 9 am yesterday. May I add that it was a really cold night. There's got to be easier ways to make $300-400 bucks. I'll wait until after the holidays when everyones need to have the system dies down.

right now its more like $1000+ according to ebay. luckily i can make more at a regular job per hour than i can by waiting 24hours + in front of a TRU in the cold.

24 hours for $100 is only $41 per hour and some change. not worth it imo...especially since most are camping more than 24 hours. i'd wait 5 hours max for something like this, but the people i saw in front of the store weren't exactly industry leaders and ceos of the community.

[DMB]

I just got back from TRU, where I showed up 3 hours ahead of opening. There were 5 people there who had been there since 5:00 yesterday, and they told me that TRU let everyone in at 6:00 to put their names down for a system, so they were all gone already. People are getting waaaaaay too hardcore this generation...

Anyone know when the online store actually starts preorders? I thought it was this morning, but it's still a coming soon screen.

[Dammenion]

I just got back from my TRU, I know they are only getting 4 PS3s and they had 20 people in line @ 3am. Guess I'll try Wal-Mart or BB day before launch.


If not then screw it till the new year.

[icruise]

but the people i saw in front of the store weren't exactly industry leaders and ceos of the community.
Those are the people who will be buying the systems from the people in line.

I'm going to be heading out to the Champaign TRU in about an hour to try my luck with their "lottery." There was no way that I was going to camp out, so this at least gives me a chance. Who knows? There many not actually be that many people there.

[xnonfactor]

17 people in line at 6 am at TRU in Dothan, AL ALL for PS3's. Management wouldn't tell how many were being pre-ordered but I have a feeling that many are going to go away empty handed. Any word on online orders?

[Sixtail]

I'm glad this shit only happens ever four years, but really, after the PS2 mess back in 2001 and the 360 crap last year, the breeding ground is -ripe- for this madness. It's to the point where you have highly professinal scalpers and Ebayers in the mix now, not just the gamers looking to pay for a car, or a load of games with a PS3. And Sony can not be happy about this one bit because hype doesn't make them any more money..all that markup isn't going to them.

If the big three are smart, in four years they will counteract this shit by letting this hype build, then making sure their's enough units as it gets closer to launch. I can't lie, I'd love to do this too, a PS3 could make a big dent in my upcoming dental bill. lol.

I'm getting a Wii and maybe two games at launch and that's it for me. The PS3 has to drop at least $100-$150 for me to bother.

[woodylobster227]

What happens when those 4 say they are holdings spots for 4 others? The numbers are so small, I hope the lines go well.
Then I would be screwed I'll find out in 2 in a half hours.

[meerkatgamer]

I went to my TRU at 7:00 and there was atleast 30 or so people there i'm not sure who was for ps3, wii and elmo, but they ran out of system tickets pretty quick the maneger said they only had 4 ps3 tickets I wasn't able to ask about wii.

I didn't get the wii though me and my mom went to target and she got me memoirs of the geisha and payed half on some wii controller gloves one of them has a green glove with tri-force on it and two other with Wii and other pack had a red glove with M on it and two others with Wii, but I hope to get it on launch day even though it'll be hard hehe.

[ITDEFX]

see this is TOTAL bullshit by the companies. They always do this... Not enough units for launch.... limited supplies......... pre order 1 per person. I bet the execs love to sit back, have a party and watch the news as people waste there lives on camping out for several hours just to get the damn thing. Yet a few months later there are enough on the shelf so anyone can buy them anytime. Now if they did something like free 50$ gift card or free game or 100 bucks off, then thats a good deal.

[bassec]

All PS3 and Wii's taken by 5 AM at Tallahassee TRU

[Sixtail]

see this is TOTAL bullshit by the companies. They always do this... Not enough units for launch.... limited supplies......... pre order 1 per person. I bet the execs love to sit back, have a party and watch the news as people waste there lives on camping out for several hours just to get the damn thing. Yet a few months later there are enough on the shelf so anyone can buy them anytime. Now if they did something like free 50$ gift card or free game or 100 bucks off, then thats a good deal.

They don't do this for shits and giggles. You -know- that Sony has more then likely behind closed doors tried to do all it can to get more PS3's out for launch. They aren't making any money on systems as it is and the fact that people are making $600 extra and more off of systems has to not be good at all.

But at the same time Sony wants to use the hoilday season and all the madness within to move games, controllers and whatnot that normaly wouldn't move otherwise. So they are at fault.

[Ikohn4ever]

went to mind at 7 just in case and the line was wrapped around the front of the store, kept on drivin

[rabbitt]

All of this camping talk makes me not even want to bother checking my TRU for a Wii.

[cjmunoz]

I got to my TRU at 8:15, and I was 28th in line. I thought it was looking pretty good for me to get a Wii, but of course the store had 15 and I was 16th in line for the system.

[Vinny]

I went to see if anyone was outside waiting around midnight and when I get there were around 8 people already waiting in sleeping bags and tents. No way was I going to get one if I went around 7AM like I planned.

*sigh*

[Dainbramaged]

Hell, I'm just gonna wait until release. If I'm not the first to get one, it won't be the end of the world. I don't even care if I have to wait for the second shipment.

Besides, I trust Nintendo to do everything they can to make sure there are plenty to go around, unlike Sony and Microsoft, who never seem to plan that far ahead.

[megahertz_777]

I woke up at 5 a.m. this morning just to investigate the situation. Too many people at both TRU's that I live by. Too many people know about this blog. Too many people in Los Angeles for sure.

[wampa8jedi]

I woke up at 5 a.m. this morning just to investigate the situation. Too many people at both TRU's that I live by. Too many people know about this blog. Too many people in Los Angeles for sure.

It's not really this site that did it--ToysRus sent out the big toy books advertising the pre-orders...

[Chrono72090]

Went by a 9, they had already filed all the PS3 and Wii reserves :-(

There was a pretty big line for TMX Elmo's ;o

[SkyGheNe]

It's not really this site that did it--ToysRus sent out the big toy books advertising the pre-orders...

I really think it was lik-sang, kotaku and gamespot that gave it away.

[paintballers]

My Toys R US did their preorders yesterday they are horrible.

[SkyGheNe]

They don't do this for shits and giggles. You -know- that Sony has more then likely behind closed doors tried to do all it can to get more PS3's out for launch. They aren't making any money on systems as it is and the fact that people are making $600 extra and more off of systems has to not be good at all.

But at the same time Sony wants to use the hoilday season and all the madness within to move games, controllers and whatnot that normaly wouldn't move otherwise. So they are at fault.

...But they do, do this on purpose.

It builds so much hype that when someone doesn't get one...they go insane. People start talking about how "awesome" it is, and then people want it even more. People hear about the "demand" and how crazy all those people are, waiting in line for a game system etc.

It's a marketing ploy.

[dinobot]

Went by near by TRU this morning and saw like 40+ campers... lol

went and got groceries instead. i have better things to do than to camp for a preorder.

[MadFlava]

I drove by this TRU at 2:30AM this morning - about 10 people were outside the TRU, and there were probably about 10 cars sitting in the fire lane. They seemed to have formed a line of cars?

LOL, that was at my TRU also a line of cars in front so they can stay warm. My TRU only had 8 PS3's and the last person got in line yesterday at 3PM! Unbelievable, people camping out for preorder, I thought I saw it all. Store had only 19 Wii preorders and those were gone by 5AM. Most of the people who showed up were there for Elmo which they had 98 of but allowed each person to buy two, so they sold out super quick also. This is the earliest I've seen Christmas toy madness ever begin. There had to by 70-90 people in line at one point.

[Indonesia]

Went to the toyrsus near my house. The line is pretty long. some one has been there since 3 pm yesterday :-(.

[avatar94]

I really think it was lik-sang, kotaku and gamespot that gave it away. Damn that Lik-sang... someone ought to shut them down!
:lol:


What?
Too soon?

[Zen Davis]

BITCHES & HOS! BITCHES & HOS! Number 1 at the Rockaway, NJ mall. I decided not to go Friday night because of the storm and got there around opening on Saturday morning. Made a bee-line for the managers to announce I was there and they instructed me to wait in the R-Zone. I was the first so I just sat on the floor and played my DS. After a while I downloaded Elite Beat Agents from the DS Download Station and the game is pretty damn cool. Totally worth a buy even without a discount!

Anyway, the first cat showed up around 5PM but after debating it for a few hours decided to walk away. The next three people showed up at 6PM and by the 6:30PM the 8 PS3s they had were gone (7 60GB - 1 20GB). At 7PM, they moved us into the vestibule and let us stay there until 10PM and moved us out. The wind was absolutely killer. Lost feeling in my legs and the slight drizzle at 1AM didn't help. Everyone on line jumped into their cars after signing a makeshift list but I refused to go off the line simply because if no one was there, and people showed up, it was quickly going to start causing problems and I didn't want to screw up my chances at getting my WII and PS3.

They let us back in the store at 5:30AM (fucking Daylight Savings!) and we stayed there until they passed out tickets for the WII, PS3, and a Tickle Me Elmo! I got one of each. What? Why are you looking at me like that? Don't judge me! DON'T JUDGE ME! Hehehe...

The funniest thing was people who would come in at 1AM - 2AM - 3AM, still expecting to get a system. It's like, people we did this last year with the 360. If you really wanted it, you should have been here early enough. In fact, two drunks kids decided to get a PS3 after getting completely hammered at a party and got on line at like 3AM and had to be told, yeah, they're all accounted for. More than anything, I just couldn't help but notice how tight their pants were. Kids, tight pants are not cool. They're gay. Eventually though, they and their Misfits hoodie hopped back into their car and drove off. What's more is that I just don't understand how mothers can show up at like 8AM expecting to get a PS3 or even a WII, and then throwing a bitchfest when they can't get one. I saw a number of people sell their WII preorders on the line for $70. Watch the news ladies. They're called sell-outs for a reason. Research. Do it.

Anyway, I fell asleep at 8AM because I really needed to use the bathroom and I wasn't getting out of line. Got woken up by some kids at 9:30AM and at 10AM they let us in the store. By 10:05, I was back out in my car heading home. Overall, decent experience short of the wind. Management was downright excellent and in five years from now, remember, the manager will be your best friend. Introduce yourselves to them. Adios. Pictures later.

[MSI Magus]

Fiancee dropped by at 10 this mourning, they said they sold out last night at 11!

[Frosty The Batman]

Well I walked away for four Tickle Me Elmos. I really hate Elmo.
The manager comes out at about 5am and asks whos getting a PS3. Now I figured the 15 people in front of me had them spoken for but only 6 of them did so I was lucky number 7. The manager said they will be taking 10 preorders. Then after a light drizzle and hail he came back out and said they're only getting 6. So I got denied.

I got there at 1am. Most of the people in front of my wanted Elmo and the Wii. I was kinda shocked but GO WII!

I can't wait to try again at the PS3 in a few weeks. Going wwaaaay earlier then 1am though. Same for the Wii.

Also my friend game me Pokemon Leaf Green for gas money. Weird but totally ok by me.

[scientificmapp]

The wind was absolutely killer. Lost feeling in my legs and the slight drizzle at 1AM didn't help. More than anything, I just couldn't help but notice how tight their pants were.

Moron!!!

Your lucky you didn't lose any body parts from the cold. And stop checking out guys in tight pants!!! That's not cool!!!

[rabbitt]

Called my TRU, they're out.

[Oops! I did it again.]

Went by my TRU at 8AM, and yeah, it was too packed. I went and checked out the line because there were a lot of Elmo folks there and I was still unsure of the Wii allotment, but the Wii allotments (and PS3, obviously) were already secured by the high school kids that dominated the front of the line.

Oh well, I'll give it a nice 24 hour run come the 18th! Gonna dominate!

They had 170 Elmos at our store but only 10 Wiis. :(

[Zen Davis]

He walked right in front me to toss something out. I swear that's what it was! Really! :lol:

But seriously, if I ever felt in any actual danger, I like myself way too much to mess my body up. I just need some sleep and a shower and I'll be as good as new.

Moron!!!

Your lucky you didn't lose any body parts from the cold. And stop checking out guys in tight pants!!! That's not cool!!!

[alongx]

The funniest thing was people who would come in at 1AM - 2AM - 3AM, still expecting to get a system.

The funny thing is people thinking that camping out 8+ hours for a preorder can get them a system? For a fucking preorder?

I swung by my TRU at 2:30 (1:30?) on the way home from a halloween party and there was already a line of cars formed. So I said "fuck it" and went home. I'll try for a Wii at BB, CC or Target day of.

[alongx]

I just kinda feel bad for you after hearing your story. I showed up at 7AM for the GS/EB pre-order when they opened at 10AM, and I was able to pre-order 8 consoles total that day, all bound for eBay.

Big difference between GS/EB preorder and TRU - this is a weekend. I would have preordered from the local EB, but I wasn't taking a day off from work just for that.

[rarebucky]

BITCHES & HOS! BITCHES & HOS! Number 1 at the Rockaway, NJ mall. I decided not to go Friday night because of the storm and got there around opening on Saturday morning. Made a bee-line for the managers to announce I was there and they instructed me to wait in the R-Zone. I was the first so I just sat on the floor and played my DS. After a while I downloaded Elite Beat Agents from the DS Download Station and the game is pretty damn cool. Totally worth a buy even without a discount!

Anyway, the first cat showed up around 5PM but after debating it for a few hours decided to walk away. The next three people showed up at 6PM and by the 6:30PM the 8 PS3s they had were gone (7 60GB - 1 20GB). At 7PM, they moved us into the vestibule and let us stay there until 10PM and moved us out. The wind was absolutely killer. Lost feeling in my legs and the slight drizzle at 1AM didn't help. Everyone on line jumped into their cars after signing a makeshift list but I refused to go off the line simply because if no one was there, and people showed up, it was quickly going to start causing problems and I didn't want to screw up my chances at getting my WII and PS3.

They let us back in the store at 5:30AM (fucking Daylight Savings!) and we stayed there until they passed out tickets for the WII, PS3, and a Tickle Me Elmo! I got one of each. What? Why are you looking at me like that? Don't judge me! DON'T JUDGE ME! Hehehe...

The funniest thing was people who would come in at 1AM - 2AM - 3AM, still expecting to get a system. It's like, people we did this last year with the 360. If you really wanted it, you should have been here early enough. In fact, two drunks kids decided to get a PS3 after getting completely hammered at a party and got on line at like 3AM and had to be told, yeah, they're all accounted for. More than anything, I just couldn't help but notice how tight their pants were. Kids, tight pants are not cool. They're gay. Eventually though, they and their Misfits hoodie hopped back into their car and drove off. What's more is that I just don't understand how mothers can show up at like 8AM expecting to get a PS3 or even a WII, and then throwing a bitchfest when they can't get one. I saw a number of people sell their WII preorders on the line for $70. Watch the news ladies. They're called sell-outs for a reason. Research. Do it.

Anyway, I fell asleep at 8AM because I really needed to use the bathroom and I wasn't getting out of line. Got woken up by some kids at 9:30AM and at 10AM they let us in the store. By 10:05, I was back out in my car heading home. Overall, decent experience short of the wind. Management was downright excellent and in five years from now, remember, the manager will be your best friend. Introduce yourselves to them. Adios. Pictures later.

I live in NJ as well and anyone who waited in line outside yesterday in one of the worst storms in years just to get a reserve on a system is either the most hardcore person ever or the biggest idiot. I'm undecided on which one.

[scientificmapp]

It's strange that TRU would take out such a big ad to advertise the PS3 and Wii when they received so few systems (there was no need to pay the cost to advertise this with so few systems). This was a ploy to get everyone into the store. Once they find out the systems are sold out they probably looked around and pick up some other video game or toy. Great idea for TRU to generate traffic through their store.

[Zen Davis]

I'd personally do it now than in November, really. That and the storm was all that bad. It was the wind that made it hard to deal with. It cut right through you. There wasn't much rain at all where I was.

It's strange that TRU would take out such a big ad to advertise the PS3 and Wii when they received so few systems (there was no need to pay the cost to advertise this with so few systems). This was a ploy to get everyone into the store. Once they find out the systems are sold out they probably looked around and pick up some other video game or toy. Great idea for TRU to generate traffic through their store.
And about that, a number of moms who couldn't get a PS3 actually bought a Nintendo Wii instead. I'd have to say Nintendo's strategy seems to be working.

Hint: idiot.

Jealousy will get you nowhere my good man. :)

[icruise]

I just got back from my trip to TRU's lottery. It was a bust for me. There must have been 250 people there. It's not clear how many were there just for the Elmos, but a LOT of them wanted the PS3. The store was only getting 4 PS3s (3 60gb and 1 20gb) so my chances weren't so good, especially because lots of people came in big groups (one guy brought his 4 little kids and they all had tickets -- luckily they didn't win).

Anyway, this might sound like sour grapes, but I'm not hugely upset that I didn't get one, since there isn't much that I'm really looking forward to on the PS3. I'm more excited about the Wii at this point (and I already have an Amazon preorder for that).

[Dhuk]

I just kinda feel bad for you after hearing your story. I showed up at 7AM for the GS/EB pre-order when they opened at 10AM, and I was able to pre-order 8 consoles total that day, all bound for eBay.

8 of them, sure you did.........:roll:



On the way home from a haloween party/contest, there was like 15 people at the closet TRU to me (about 2 am). I didn't even bother, just went home and slept. I heard one TRU had 19 people at 6 pm. It's probably doubled now.


Someone mentioned lottery system, I honestly think thats the best route most stores should take. But if you have four kids with you, they shouldn't have gotten a ticket, one per household?

[Oops! I did it again.]

I think the lotto is a great idea as long as everyone knows about it beforehand and there is no benefit of getting there early. That way, everyone can get there when they want to get there, and then the lotto can take place at a set time...versus people getting there at 5PM the day before only to lose a lottery to a guy who just got there.

[Kendro]

What happened to news of the Wii and TRU being launch partners? I thought everyone who wanted to pre-order a Wii at TRU was GUARANTEED one? And I thought Nintendo was allocating a crapload of the Wii? Oh well, THANK GOD I got my order in from Amazon.

[Dijital]

All were claimed by 3pm at the TRU in Sioux Falls, SD so no go for me they even had a TV there and everything and as stated by others it was middle/high school kids, they should have done this on a weekday then I could have been there all night long :)

[Michaellvortega]

What happened to news of the Wii and TRU being launch partners? I thought everyone who wanted to pre-order a Wii at TRU was GUARANTEED one? And I thought Nintendo was allocating a crapload of the Wii? Oh well, THANK GOD I got my order in from Amazon.

The TRU closest to me still has a pre-orders for Wii.

[Oops! I did it again.]

What happened to news of the Wii and TRU being launch partners? I thought everyone who wanted to pre-order a Wii at TRU was GUARANTEED one? And I thought Nintendo was allocating a crapload of the Wii? Oh well, THANK GOD I got my order in from Amazon.
Yeah, what about the launch partner thing? Was that just BS or is there something I'm missing? (Or like does launch partner mean it's just an advertising agreement - TRU will pimp this system out, etc?)

For being a launch partner, why would the launch allotments be so small?

[Liquid Anubis]

My local TRU had 18 Wiis and 5 PS3 60gb version and 1 20gb. I got there at 8:45am and there was a line already. Some where there since noon yesterday. So instead of driving all the way back home, I waited in line for some elmos. I got 2 of them. They had 80. By the time the store opened, all were sold out. There was one altercation with 1 person. But that was it.

[Kendro]

Even though Nintendo is giving a generous allocation, I think eBayers are going to cause an artificial "shortage," meaning they will buy up so many of them that the only place where Wii will be available is eBay. That's the only explanation how a major chain like TRU are running out of pre-orders.

[iGen]

I just kinda feel bad for you after hearing your story. I showed up at 7AM for the GS/EB pre-order when they opened at 10AM, and I was able to pre-order 8 consoles total that day, all bound for eBay.

Cool. I'll be on the lookout for eBay sellers with very high quantities, and I'll report you to Gamestop for violating the rules like that. Did you use fake information or what?

[diablofreak]

Even though Nintendo is giving a generous allocation, I think eBayers are going to cause an artificial "shortage," meaning they will buy up so many of them that the only place where Wii will be available is eBay. That's the only explanation how a major chain like TRU are running out of pre-orders.

i doubt anyone can profit much from wii on ebay.
ps3 is another story with the publicized shortages

[djkunai]

I'm back with a PS3 for me, my bro, and a TMX elmo for my niece in law. I was in line since 8pm on Friday. Hardcore.

[Togepy]

Got 1 of 125 PS3's at the TRU Times Square store. Been waiting out there for 21 hours, fuck I'm going to sleep.

[Zen Davis]

Got 1 of 125 PS3's at the TRU Times Square store. Been waiting out there for 21 hours, fuck I'm going to sleep.
How many people on line?

[portnoyd]

My friend got his Wii (didn't want a PS3) by getting there at 6am to the Wayne, NJ TRU. He was 14/20. I got there an hour later and chilled with him (literally), and ended up getting 2 TMXs for the kids of friends of mine. Already have my PS3 from EB (1/14) and Wii from the Nintendo World Store in NYC.

I will concur with rarebucky... 3 hours was so much better than 24 hours. Anyone who waited from when the sun was up the day before (or then some) is a goon. I'd give you a pass if it was the summer, but it was brutal in NJ last night. Honestly, you're not hardcore; you're just retarded.

[Import]

Went to the TRU in East Brunswick, NJ this morning around 6AM to attempt to secure a 2nd PS3 (Got one at GS) and they had a sign on the door saying they were out of PS3 and Wii Pre-orders but had Elmo's. Apparantly they gave out coupons at like 2AM but last night was cold and there was such a bad wind storm that I probably couldn't of made it. Me and my wife did buy 4 (Max allowed) Elmos which I'll put on eBay come closer to Xmas. Only had to wait 30 mins before they gave out the tickets. :)


EDIT:

Man, it wasn't bad this morning but the wind just kicked up something fierce.

[Crono139]

I'd give you a pass if it was the summer, but it was brutal in NJ last night. Honestly, you're not hardcore; you're just retarded.
Agreed.

The wind alone was out of this world... and still is.

[SaMiDaDrAgOn]

My Tru had 20 Wii's and 8 PS3's all gone. People were campin yesterday, last night was so windy, I don't know if it would've been worth it. I'd rather camp out sat night before the Wii comes out instead.

[vietgurl]

got way too drunk last night to even check my TRU this morning. oh well...

[woodylobster227]

fuck tru, I was told by a manager yesterday they would have 85 elmo's, 15 wii's, and 8 ps3's by a manager and today I find out they only have 2 wii's, 2 ps3's, and no elmo's by the same manager as yesterday. The funny thing is they handed out the same amount of line tickets that I was told yesterday. I was told it was a system error I call bullshit on the whole damn thing. Hope nobody else ran into the same problem did.

[Lou-Dawg]

Went to the TRU in East Brunswick, NJ this morning around 6AM to attempt to secure a 2nd PS3 (Got one at GS) and they had a sign on the door saying they were out of PS3 and Wii Pre-orders but had Elmo's. Apparantly they gave out coupons at like 2AM but last night was cold and there was such a bad wind storm that I probably couldn't of made it. Me and my wife did buy 4 (Max allowed) Elmos which I'll put on eBay come closer to Xmas. Only had to wait 30 mins before they gave out the tickets. :)


EDIT:

Man, it wasn't bad this morning but the wind just kicked up something fierce.

I'd put the Elmo's up for sale ASAP. The manufacturer is having no trouble cranking them out (each TRU got around a 100, and Xmas is still months away). The TMX shortage is artificial and caused by ebay hoarders.

[Zon27]

I just called the TRU that I used to work at and they told me they only had 7 PS3s and 20 Wii preorders and ofcourse they were gone. No biggie though I already have both of my preorders at EB.

[Rictor]

Sent my wife to one of the TRU stores in Indy this morning...didn't know they were opening 2 hours early. Didn't really matter though...people were camping out the night before. It's crazy...no one showed up for the Gamestop/EB pre-orders here and now 100+ people are showing up for the TRU pre-orders. I guess the EB/GS pre-orders weren't advertised though.

[mrspock]

Got to TRU 7:30am, the store had 7 ps3 (6 60gb & 1 20gb), 18 Wiis and 114 Elmos. PS3 and Wiis were all spoken for from people camping out since yesterday, Went back home and then went back an hour before opening with a couple people and got 6 Elmos.

[Wanderlai]

Winston Salem, N.C. TRU had 7- 60gb PS3, 1- 20gb PS3, 18 Wii's, and 93 Elmo's. First guy was there at 3:30pm. I was paying a couple of my friends to stand in line for me but I told them to come there at 9:00pm. 2nd guy arrived at 6:00pm, so I called my friends to hurry up and get down there or they were all going to be taken. I went to work and called them at 7:00pm to see where in line they were at. Thankfully they were number 7 and 8. So I ended up with a 60gb PS3 preorder, a 20gb PS3 preorder, a Wii preorder, and 2 Elmo's. The PS3's were gone by 7pm, the Wii's were gone by 6am, and all the Elmo's were gone by 10am. Store opened at 11am.

[Vegan]

Store had 7 PS3s and 19 Wiis. I got there at 2:30. At 9:30am tickets were handed out. The dude in front of me got the LAST ONE.

Sigh. That was 8 hours, with daylight's savings.

[topnotch97]

i've been hearing that vouchers were given out the night before or even early this morning. than i hear TRU san mateo was a big mess.

something tells me, that the whole "small allocation" for pre-order was to avoid running out of consoles for launch day. and this is for regular folks who don't pre-order but just want to get a console when you just walk-in the store.

bottom line, it all depends on every TRU manager if they need to allocate a lot or none. so it's not a consistent thing.

ok doky, time to watch some pooorrrnnnoooo!! :lol:

[sp00ge]

I'd put the Elmo's up for sale ASAP. The manufacturer is having no trouble cranking them out (each TRU got around a 100, and Xmas is still months away). The TMX shortage is artificial and caused by ebay hoarders.

The TRU TMX shortage was also due in part to the big book. Our local warehouse was sitting on over 1000 units the past month or so. They wanted to hold them so they would be in stock for the big book release.

[gasstronamcile]

Got 1 of 125 PS3's at the TRU Times Square store. Been waiting out there for 21 hours, fuck I'm going to sleep.

omg, I WAS THE GUY AT TIMES SQUARE WHO WROTE ELMO IN TAPE EVERYWHERE.!!!


JEAH BOI!

[jollydwarf]

I just kinda feel bad for you after hearing your story. I showed up at 7AM for the GS/EB pre-order when they opened at 10AM, and I was able to pre-order 8 consoles total that day, all bound for eBay.

You wanna know where I think you should be "bound for"?

[oni-link]

hey topnotch you watching one that has Nicole Hernandez?

[somahead33]

Sony will just have to get my money sometime next year. Not that I mind being that the 360 has just about every game I could possibly want anyways. Hopefully I can snag a Wii via online preorder or a few hours spent in front of BB.WallyWorld/etc.

[Fat Dragon]

So I went out to the TRU in Urbana, IL this morning with my gf, got there around 8:30 am. Knew from last night they were doing a lottery, they had:

-3 60gig PS3s
-1 20gig PS3
-10 Wiis

People could get tickets for one, either or both, and there were probably about 150 to 200 people.

My gf and I took Wii only. As more and more tickets were called, I figured it was over, but then on the 10th Wii my gf's number was called!!!!

So i now have a preorder and didn't need to, and won't need to camp out!

Also, I know i owe my gf big time for helping me out ^_^

[VidgamesgivemeA_D_D]

I called my Toys R Us Thursday and they said they weren't doing it for PS3. Then I go in there today for the hell of it and they said "we had 4 PS3s earlier but you're too late" Damn liars. Probably the employee who said they aren't doing it wanted one for himself.

[gaelan]

I showed up at 7AM for the GS/EB pre-order when they opened at 10AM, and I was able to pre-order 8 consoles total that day, all bound for eBay.

wow...your e-penis must be huge

[dragonjud]

I just kinda feel bad for you after hearing your story. I showed up at 7AM for the GS/EB pre-order when they opened at 10AM, and I was able to pre-order 8 consoles total that day, all bound for eBay.

Away with you...fatwallet biatch!!!!!!!!!!!

[mkm1998]

I just kinda feel bad for you after hearing your story. I showed up at 7AM for the GS/EB pre-order when they opened at 10AM, and I was able to pre-order 8 consoles total that day, all bound for eBay.

You wanna know where I think you should be "bound for"?

The guy's story is bull anyway. EB and GS took pre-orders and attached them to Driver's Licenses. They were linked on the computers, so only one nationwide per driver's license.

So unless he suckered 7 people to go along on his scheme, don't believe the troll.

[MadFlava]

I think this TRU preorder was the last realistic opportunity to preorder PS3 and Wii in store. All that is left now is online bundles and camping out the night before. I'm more confident that Nintendo will be shipping more of them out after launch and it's possible to get it in store when they do launch. As for PS3, god people are going to get Jacked and killed over those things on the Nov. 17th. It's not going to be a fun time...

[badramen]

The problem with my TRU was that people originally going for an Elmo decided they needed a Wii and/or a PS3.

And the fact that I showed up around 9:40 a.m.

[MadFlava]

All 8 PS3's were already spoken for since 3PM yesterday. People camped out over night for all the PS3 preorders.

[jollydwarf]

The guy's story is bull anyway. EB and GS took pre-orders and attached them to Driver's Licenses. They were linked on the computers, so only one nationwide per driver's license.

So unless he suckered 7 people to go along on his scheme, don't believe the troll.

Well, don't rule that out. Think about it: he pays each $100-$200 to sit in line for three hours and still makes a major profit. Hell, there was a story in the local 'fishwrap' about the 360 launch last year where a family of three all took precious chairs at Wal-Mart, each, of course, getting a system. And I don't think that was one system for each room. The paper presented it in a pretty even-handed fashion, but I don't know how these ***holes could be so proud to show their faces and have their names printed when their greed was so apparent. I hope that kid got the s*** harassed out of him. (Now that I think about, he skipped at least part of a school day for this.)

The only other explanation for his claims besides just being full of it, would be that he's got an 'in' with multiple stores and guys secured a console for him (on top of the ones the employees were getting) for a 'nominal (shyeah, right!) fee'. People know no bounds when it comes to this nonsense, and thank God this is it for the next few years (I hope).

EDIT: As for PS3, god people are going to get Jacked and killed over those things on the Nov. 17th. It's not going to be a fun time...

Yet another reason why I'm so thankful I'm going to sit this PlayStation launch out. Just hustling to my car with a Premium 360 was enough to bellyache last year. I really don't see the Wii getting the thugs all up in arms (but with Nintendonuts and rabid moms, I'll still be stepping lively that morning). But you know they gots ta gank that PS3, fo' reals, ya heard? Yeah, yeah, YEAH!

[sren9]

It's strange that TRU would take out such a big ad to advertise the PS3 and Wii when they received so few systems (there was no need to pay the cost to advertise this with so few systems). This was a ploy to get everyone into the store. Once they find out the systems are sold out they probably looked around and pick up some other video game or toy. Great idea for TRU to generate traffic through their store.

Have not figured out the quote thing...No ploy just going off of the original allocation given over three months ago. You have to remember ads have to be put together and printed months in advance. I hope TRU has learned from this. Also, as for our Wii partnership, it is still there. Original allocation was cut a little but that is just for the launch. There were a great number of TRU stores that had more Wiis to presell than Gamestop did. TRU stores will be receiving more than just what was preordered...That is why my our employees did not bother preordering today...I am a little surprised that online preorders have not started yet...still checking on that one...

When I am wrong I say I am wrong. Looking at our allocations I would say we still have an awesome relationship with Nintendo...but...if those allocations are what they give to a launch partner, I do not want to be a partner...You have to realize information like this does change daily sometimes. I did give you guys an opportunity to plan your camping out and whatever else and you heard it hear first...To Jet, Tub, and the rest of the TRU clan...it has been fun.

[Justin42]

Good points; someone approached me (looked homeless and sorta insane, definitely hadn't had a shower in ages) when I was walking back to my car on PSP launch day and started asking all sorts of rambling questions about it. I was totally freaked out wondering what he was going to do but I started playing dumber and dumber and he finally went away.

I hate walking around with pricey stuff, when I got my core 360 from the Tower sale it was a bit of a walk back to where I parked... (and this was a year after launch! ;) ) I guess it's the "I have something of obvious value in plain sight" thing.

I'd definitely bring pepper spray to the PS3 launch. ;)

[MadFlava]

It's strange that TRU would take out such a big ad to advertise the PS3 and Wii when they received so few systems (there was no need to pay the cost to advertise this with so few systems). This was a ploy to get everyone into the store. Once they find out the systems are sold out they probably looked around and pick up some other video game or toy. Great idea for TRU to generate traffic through their store.


So True Sren9, all the people that realize that they weren't getting a Wii or PS3 ended up buying an Elmo because they wanted to make something of the hours they stayed waiting in line. I feel bad for the kids who aren't going to get what they want for christmas because the demand for these toys this year are going to be at a all time high.

[jollydwarf]

Pepper spray would be good. Or a tazer. Or--strength in numbers--a couple brutish-looking friends (call them to have the 'getaway' car ready as you're in the store). But not your Master Replica lightsabers, kids. Yeah, you can leave those at home.

[lanzarlaluna]

I went by TRU last night around midnight, and everything was spoken for. Some people had this big ass tent with like 10 people crammed in there. I said fuck it and left. When it comes to the actual launch, we are gonna roll about 5 deep with mini baseball bats in our backpacks. Someone is getting a cracked skull if they come within 5 feet of me when I leave the store.

[Michaellvortega]

I went by TRU last night around midnight, and everything was spoken for. Some people had this big ass tent with like 10 people crammed in there. I said fuck it and left. When it comes to the actual launch, we are gonna roll about 5 deep with mini baseball bats in our backpacks. Someone is getting a cracked skull if they come within 5 feet of me when I leave the store.


I remember making sweet mini baseball bats in High school woodshop, ahh those where the days.

[gasstronamcile]

I went by TRU last night around midnight, and everything was spoken for. Some people had this big ass tent with like 10 people crammed in there. I said fuck it and left. When it comes to the actual launch, we are gonna roll about 5 deep with mini baseball bats in our backpacks. Someone is getting a cracked skull if they come within 5 feet of me when I leave the store.

your gonna get arrested, any one on line with anything close to a weapon gets arrested, it happened at the nyc 360 launch. and it will happen again. have a nice time in jail while u get gang raped for being locked up for such a stupid crime.

[topnotch97]

ploy by TRU? the thought never crossed my mind.
although it was tempting to get those "other" deals, TRU probably decided to have the pre-order on the same day those Big Book Ad promos and deals to come into play. i mean, what other way should the next gen console get exposure or advertisement without involving the rest of the store.

but to be honest, i never expected today's pre-order to be in this kind of "mess." i for one was hoping for something like the regular pre-order cards that every store have. rather than have people camp it out. if TRU would just have a regular pre-order cards on the shelves and have a certain cut-off date, then they'll just order whatever number of units needed. but that "plan" wouldn't work as always.

[Altimateone2004]

I got my Wii order as well as my friend here in bakersfield. we were #'s 14 and 15. I got there around 5 am and all the ps3's were spoken for. It's funny how many people showed up from 8-9:30am wanting a ps3 and wii preorder. When they were told the tickets were all gone about half of the line was leaving. I'm glad I only had to wait about 5 hours and not overnight like I was anticipating.

[jrzshore]

your gonna get arrested, any one on line with anything close to a weapon gets arrested, it happened at the nyc 360 launch. and it will happen again. have a nice time in jail while u get gang raped for being locked up for such a stupid crime.

1) I think he was joking

2) If it's not in a big city, less of a chance of them looking for people with weapons.

3) If he doesn't pull it out, he doesn't have it, that's pretty simple.

Sorry you live in or near Hell (NYC, which I sadly live by too) where they have to check for weapons.

[xokxtrunks]

Popped by at 9:30 this morning only to find they had 7 and were all taken. I knew I should've gotten me a baseball bat. They did however have 25 TMX's, which I didn't bother to get. *Realizes I should've gotten some*

[almasy82]

I camped out since 7:00PM to grab a ps3, wii, and 2 spanish tmx (lol they sound so awesome). Planned to go around 2:00 am, but saw a person there at 6:-- ran home and got my stuff and waited it out. 2nd in line for a mere 4 systems on the ps2 and 10 on the wii. Crazy stuff...So #1 at gamestop for a 2 hr wait for a ps3 and #2 at Toysrus for a 13hr wait. Works for me

[misbitski]

Seriously, TRU is horrendous. Phillipsburg, NJ was a joke. Got there around 9AM and figured I was in luck. Two people were in line and there were no signs saying they were sold out. Then some guy walks up and tells us Wii's and PS3s are all gone. Claimed they camped out starting at 3PM the day before and then around 6am the manager gave them tickets so they wouldn't have to wait longer. Turns out they had a whopping total of 5 and they were spoken for by 3:30 or so the previous day. lol.

I'm amazed people sat in the freezing cold. I was out having a good time on my Saturday night. So I figured, what the hell, let me grab one of the TMX for my niece since I'm here. They're hard to find and it'd make a great Xmas gift. Me and my girlfriend are standing there in the loose line, and these two old wenches walk up gabbing with some other people in front of us. Stealthily, they ditch their carts and cut the line. The carts started to roll away once the wind kicked up, and I wrangle them back before they careened off towards some poor person's car. I figure what the hell. I'll let it slide since there's supposed to be plenty to go around. I didn't have enough coffee at that point to start some sh*t.

A TRU employee walks out around 9:30 with maybe 10 tickets saying that's all they have left. People SWARMED the guy and the "line" becomes a mess of greedy hands. I manage to get one ticket, even after yelling that other people have been waiting in line and should get their tickets first. The old people don't listen. They feel they're owed something because they have little time left on earth. One old guy who cut at least 5 people and grabbed two tickets is yelling because he can ONLY buy two. The two old hags who cut the line take their 4 tickets and run before the mob ensues. Only one older guy redeemed his people. He's a retired firefighter who tried to get everyone to agree to only one per person. His pleas fell on deaf ears though as the old people clawed for their toys.

It was one of the saddest displays of humanity I've ever seen. It got worse though. While we waited in the car with our golden ticket, my girlfriend called the TRU line directly to make sure our ticket was a gaurantee and there were enough of the little red bastards. Turns out they had a lot more elmos beyond the tickets they handed out and they'd be given out first come-first serve basis when they opened. By that time, the line was about 30-40 people strong and starting to walk in. We figure we better go inside just in case we get shafted on our ticket. Sure enough, the chaos continues inside. The manager comes out wondering where all the elmos went. She asks how many tickets are left, which there were 10 of. At that point, it sounded like we were hosed since she didn't look confident they had any left.

She comes back and magically had 10 elmos, and magically, people have more than 10 tickets. WTF?!? She collects the tickets for every elmo, and when she gets to me, no more elmos! At that point I'm starting to get really PO'd at the circus that is TRU and the retarded people who can't be respectful of each other. I point out the kid that handed us our tickets an hour ago and explain the situation. She says she'll go see if she can find more and hands me back a ticket as well as my girlfriend. That was the only upside I suppose, although we should have both had a ticket the first time around. Magically, more elmos appear, as do greedy hands trying to get elmos before us.

Turns out, scumbags who were given tickets were either not presenting them when they got the elmo and walking back in to stock up on more, or they got tickets from other stores. No clue. I just wanted to get the f out of there. The only thing I kept thinking about was how excited my niece will be to get one at Xmas.

Seriously, people suck, and so does TRU. It's sad that EB and GS ran the preorder campaign better and in most cases had more numbers. Not to mention the fact that people were much more civilized in those preorders. I don't know which is worse, the greedy elmo scumbags or the way TRU handled the situation. It was the farthest thing from organized I've ever seen. No Wii or PS3 from TRU for me, just lots of elmo drama. Hope other people had better experiences.

[matowest]

Drove by my TRU at 7pm last night and saw a few people there already, but there was no way I was going to line up that early. Went back at about 7:30 this morning and jumped in the short line only to have the people in front of me tell me that there were only 13 Wii preorders and I was number 15 in line. (Wasn't chasing a PS3, but they had 6 60gb and 1 20gb, all of which were spoken for.)

Bummer.

Come 12pm, I was still in line and got the LAST preorder ticket. Not sure if there were more tickets than expected, or if I'm just damn lucky.

Either way, I'm happy.

[Oops! I did it again.]

Seriously, TRU is horrendous. Phillipsburg, NJ was a joke. Got there around 9AM and figured I was in luck. Two people were in line and there were no signs saying they were sold out. Then some guy walks up and tells us Wii's and PS3s are all gone. Claimed they camped out starting at 3PM the day before and then around 6am the manager gave them tickets so they wouldn't have to wait longer. Turns out they had a whopping total of 5 and they were spoken for by 3:30 or so the previous day. lol.

I'm amazed people sat in the freezing cold. I was out having a good time on my Saturday night. So I figured, what the hell, let me grab one of the TMX for my niece since I'm here. They're hard to find and it'd make a great Xmas gift. Me and my girlfriend are standing there in the loose line, and these two old wenches walk up gabbing with some other people in front of us. Stealthily, they ditch their carts and cut the line. The carts started to roll away once the wind kicked up, and I wrangle them back before they careened off towards some poor person's car. I figure what the hell. I'll let it slide since there's supposed to be plenty to go around. I didn't have enough coffee at that point to start some sh*t.

A TRU employee walks out around 9:30 with maybe 10 tickets saying that's all they have left. People SWARMED the guy and the "line" becomes a mess of greedy hands. I manage to get one ticket, even after yelling that other people have been waiting in line and should get their tickets first. The old people don't listen. They feel they're owed something because they have little time left on earth. One old guy who cut at least 5 people and grabbed two tickets is yelling because he can ONLY buy two. The two old hags who cut the line take their 4 tickets and run before the mob ensues. Only one older guy redeemed his people. He's a retired firefighter who tried to get everyone to agree to only one per person. His pleas fell on deaf ears though as the old people clawed for their toys.

It was one of the saddest displays of humanity I've ever seen. It got worse though. While we waited in the car with our golden ticket, my girlfriend called the TRU line directly to make sure our ticket was a gaurantee and there were enough of the little red bastards. Turns out they had a lot more elmos beyond the tickets they handed out and they'd be given out first come-first serve basis when they opened. By that time, the line was about 30-40 people strong and starting to walk in. We figure we better go inside just in case we get shafted on our ticket. Sure enough, the chaos continues inside. The manager comes out wondering where all the elmos went. She asks how many tickets are left, which there were 10 of. At that point, it sounded like we were hosed since she didn't look confident they had any left.

She comes back and magically had 10 elmos, and magically, people have more than 10 tickets. WTF?!? She collects the tickets for every elmo, and when she gets to me, no more elmos! At that point I'm starting to get really PO'd at the circus that is TRU and the retarded people who can't be respectful of each other. I point out the kid that handed us our tickets an hour ago and explain the situation. She says she'll go see if she can find more and hands me back a ticket as well as my girlfriend. That was the only upside I suppose, although we should have both had a ticket the first time around. Magically, more elmos appear, as do greedy hands trying to get elmos before us.

Turns out, scumbags who were given tickets were either not presenting them when they got the elmo and walking back in to stock up on more, or they got tickets from other stores. No clue. I just wanted to get the f out of there. The only thing I kept thinking about was how excited my niece will be to get one at Xmas.

Seriously, people suck, and so does TRU. It's sad that EB and GS ran the preorder campaign better and in most cases had more numbers. Not to mention the fact that people were much more civilized in those preorders. I don't know which is worse, the greedy elmo scumbags or the way TRU handled the situation. It was the farthest thing from organized I've ever seen. No Wii or PS3 from TRU for me, just lots of elmo drama. Hope other people had better experiences.

Oh man, what a lousy story! I'm sorry you had to experience your Sunday like that.

Don't let it get you down, though. We'll still be able to get a console, just gotta commit to making a day of it (literally) in a few weeks. I understand that you're more down about the individuals involved and their attitudes, and how they managed to succeed unfairly, but hey - just goes to show the side of people that Retail Fever can draw out. I figure we'll see much worse in three weeks.

[Bacomonk]

TRU in Staten Island, NY was really well run this morning. They had 10 PS3's (9 60GB, 1 20GB) and 36 (!) Wii's. I got there at 7am with my two friends, and we were numbers 32, 33, and 34. They took our names down on a list, and were given vouchers around 8am. The PS3's were spoken for at 10am YESTERDAY (Sat.). We were allowed one Wii OR one PS3, and the manager made sure the people who waited longest got their console. There were 220 Elmo's (..wtf >_>), so I grabbed a voucher and sold it for $20 later on.

I thought the whole process was very well done, and I really excited about my Wii.

[forumreader]

It's strange that TRU would take out such a big ad to advertise the PS3 and Wii when they received so few systems (there was no need to pay the cost to advertise this with so few systems). This was a ploy to get everyone into the store. Once they find out the systems are sold out they probably looked around and pick up some other video game or toy. Great idea for TRU to generate traffic through their store.


I wouldn't accuse them of anything too major. You have to realize that a lot of companies are still adapting to the way digg, cag, fw, and all of these sites have exploded in the last few years. If this was 5 years ago, we'd all learn about PS3 preorders via the Big Book that we got in the mail or in the store, and we'd head down there and try to preorder. Now it seems like the info is leaked the second ink hits the page at the printing factory.

The allocations might seem low because all of the TRU I talked to were holding half their launch stock for launch day, whereas GameStop and EB were preordering all they hoped to get for launch.

[Michaellvortega]

Your a fool if you wasted your time in a long line for a Wii, there really was no need to wait for something that will be in such large supply.

[MadFlava]

Your a fool if you wasted your time in a long line for a Wii, there really was no need to wait for something that will be in such large supply.

I think your right about the availability. Getting it on launch day should possible. Looking at the numbers Nintendo plans to have shipped and the sheer number of retailers carrying it. Also, after the PS3 craziness the Thurs-Friday before, maybe people will be too exhausted to do the same camping out crap for the Wii.

BTW, can we move this to dead deals. B&M preorders are finished.

[gkrykewy]

Your a fool if you wasted your time in a long line for a Wii, there really was no need to wait for something that will be in such large supply.

Newsflash: they're not going to be as widely available as you think.

[auralia]

swung by my TRU at about 8 this morning, there was a sign taped to the window that they had already given out all preorders the previous day, i mean didn't exect to get anything getting there when i did, but come on, the day before bs.

[botticus]

It was rather sad when the guy cutting my hair this morning was half-joking about asking for a few months advance pay to get a PS3. Also sad that he thought he could go next door to TRU in the middle of the afternoon after he stopped working where he had seen people waiting in the morning and get a PS3 preorder.

At least he agreed that it was smart to wait for a couple production runs till they had worked all the bugs out of it... but was still planning on getting one at launch if he could.

[Dhuk]

The problem with my TRU was that people originally going for an Elmo decided they needed a Wii and/or a PS3.

And the fact that I showed up around 9:40 a.m.

That's what my friend said. He got there around 8 am for a Wii and most were there for elmo, but some moron was exaggerating how PS3s are going for 2000 bucks profit (currently $500-700 profit+), and the elmo scalpers/collector tried to get a PS3 as well, all because of some big mouth. Oh, he got his wii with ease.


Why hasn't Nintendo started with their tele ads yet? They probably have a whole slew of Wii's, but I wouldn't put it past them to create controversy to over hype the PS3.

[Rictor]

I camped out since 7:00PM to grab a ps3, wii, and 2 spanish tmx (lol they sound so awesome). Planned to go around 2:00 am, but saw a person there at 6:-- ran home and got my stuff and waited it out. 2nd in line for a mere 4 systems on the ps2 and 10 on the wii. Crazy stuff...So #1 at gamestop for a 2 hr wait for a ps3 and #2 at Toysrus for a 13hr wait. Works for me

What's that make...like 9 PS3 systems for you now?

[Michaellvortega]

Sam's Club business membership is $35 on the website, this will let you get into sam's club early(7am) for PS3 and Wii launch. Maybe this can help someone?

[SpikeSpiegel]

NJ it seems is NOT the place to get a Wii/PS3. I'm going to camp out for a PS3 on the 16th but after seeing how horrible TRU was I doubt I'll get one. It's a shame that people are going days earlier. Some people have lives and can't wait outside for days on end.

[SpikeSpiegel]

Sam's Club business membership is $35 on the website, this will let you get into sam's club early(7am) for PS3 and Wii launch. Maybe this can help someone? I have something like that for Costco, a sister store to Sam's club. But I'll bet I'm not the only one with that idea in mind.

[Bazz]

Toysrus in Nyc was crazy I was in city at around 12 by there not for a ps3 or anything and they had a line of like 150 people or so and I know was probably crazy more earlier. Wish you guys good luck on this stuff.

[almasy82]

lol rictor I have two ps3 to sell and a wii for me know :-)

[tinyandi]

Guys...check Tiger Direct. Thanks FW.

[RelentlessRolento]

... didnt get pre-order but in no worries.

[sting0r]

This crap is crazy, I went to my TRU at 1am last night and everything was already spoken for. I wonder if Nintendoworld in NYC is still doing the preorder, I should have just went there.

Anyone know if anywhere else is going to do preorders? Don't really feel like camping out the night before, I am hoping to catch a random shipment between launch day and the end of year for both the wii and ps3...

[Ikohn4ever]

This crap is crazy, I went to my TRU at 1am last night and everything was already spoken for. I wonder if Nintendoworld in NYC is still doing the preorder, I should have just went there.


I cant find the article but the head guy at the World Store said that there will be enough for sunday, but prob not for monday

[Lou-Dawg]

Guys...check Tiger Direct. Thanks FW.

Ordered. I forsee myself cancelling. After all how many PS3's are Tiger Direct really going to get?

[strayfoxx]

Toysrus in Nyc was crazy I was in city at around 12 by there not for a ps3 or anything and they had a line of like 150 people or so and I know was probably crazy more earlier. Wish you guys good luck on this stuff.

I never feel bad for people in NYC. Living there, one should be cognizant of the congestion and either get in their car/rent one and find a more obscure location only an hour or two away. If one has the ability to wait 12+ hours a 3 hour roundtrip for a more guaranteed location should not be an issue...

[topnotch97]

wow this thread just like died.
i guess that's it for pre-orders.
in two weeks comes the launch.

kudos who got pre-orders
and kudos who did not get pre-orders

[Tybee]

I have something like that for Costco, a sister store to Sam's club. But I'll bet I'm not the only one with that idea in mind.

And by "sister store" you meant "direct competitor," right?

Of course you did.

[Kaijufan]

I got to my local Toys R Us at 7:50. When I called the other day they said they were opening at 9, but they actually opened at 8 (I think they forgot about daylight savings time today, since it would have been 9 when they opened if not for daylight savings time). I was the 10th person in line for the Wii preorder, and they had 10 preorders, so everything worked out well. :)

[portnoyd]

This crap is crazy, I went to my TRU at 1am last night and everything was already spoken for. I wonder if Nintendoworld in NYC is still doing the preorder, I should have just went there.

World Store stopped doing preorders about 2-3 weeks ago.

[cchen326]

What do you guys think about having my friend wait in line for 12 hours until I get off work then I take his spot and he leaves at midnight. Have you seen people switch off places. Would this be considered messed up since no one is really cutting?

[Oops! I did it again.]

To me, it all depends on the people with me. If I were to plan on swapping out with someone, I'd mention it to the people right there with me in line to see if they're cool with that, and chances are, who would tell you "No, that's F'd up!" But I wouldn't do it before mentioning it to the others in line simply because it might seem kind of uncool to have your buddy get to arrive way after everyone else and still get that spot in line.

[topnotch97]

i got no problem with that, but i dunno about the folks on-site. hopefully they didn't give you the look and was itching to mug you. LOL

[SkyGheNe]

How well your experience goes depends SOLEY on the people.

For x360, i started in line at 5 pm last year at bestbuy and well...it was a jungle. I was number #13 and then after #6's "posse" "came back" cause they had been "already waiting" I was #20 and not guaranteed a premium. I wasn't about to argue with 500 pound gangsters.

So I then went to circuit city across the road after getting a call from my bro. (literally, just can't see it well). I tip off a guy who was waiting with his son for the console and run away. I guess he didn't believe me cause he didn't show up. But a guy and his girlfriend came that I also informed cause I felt informed and didn't want these people to get owned as badly as I just did.

One guy waiting. Really nice chap, we talk and me, my friends, and my bro line up and happily sit, chatting about gaming. Over the night we gather about 15 us total at 3 am. We pulled up our cars, I brought tons of extra ponchos and handed em out to people ill prepared and bought a SHIT load of food for the event. So we all snacked together on a bunch of desserts, drinks, and food. It was a grand ol' time (except for the rain haha, but we sort of had a roof that stuck out at CC).

We all got to know each other pretty well and the experience was enjjoyable. We wrote up a list of who came when and respected it. One kid came at 5 am and asked if it was the line. We said yes, but that all the slots were taken. He said do you work at circuit city? We said no. He said then fuck the list.

That's when just about everyone turned around to stare at him and said, almost in unison, "what did you just say?"

Haha, it was hilarious.

[SkyGheNe]

What do you guys think about having my friend wait in line for 12 hours until I get off work then I take his spot and he leaves at midnight. Have you seen people switch off places. Would this be considered messed up since no one is really cutting?

Not messed up - but be sure to explain it. ANd make sure your friend explains it to the others in line/newly arrivals.

[Zmonkay]

lessee how the TigerDirect stuff goes. No quantities mentioned, no specific details. I can def. see many of them being canceled on us, but Tiger is a good site, so I figure even if they cancel my order, I'll at least get a coupon out of it :)

[spmahn]

I have something like that for Costco, a sister store to Sam's club. But I'll bet I'm not the only one with that idea in mind.

Sams and Costco are actually 2 completely different companies. Sams is owned by Wal-Mart.

[jollydwarf]

Seriously, people suck, and so does TRU. It's sad that EB and GS ran the preorder campaign better and in most cases had more numbers. Not to mention the fact that people were much more civilized in those preorders.

Reading that (and yes, I enthusiastically read it as if a 5-question pop quiz could be coming at any time), I could not help but be reminded of the 'diner parking lot' scene in War of the Worlds (2005). Mind you, I get a spoonful more misanthropic everyday (because I believe society is getting worse everyday), but the analogy works regardless.

...

Newsflash: they're not going to be as widely available as you think.

I...could not...agree...more. Especially on Launch Weekend. Nintendo wants their headlines, too. They don't want the Wii coming across to the public as the 'consolation prize'. Also, do not underestimate the numbers or the sheer zeal of their 'faithful'.

[Jaguarandine]

Just wanted to thank the people in this thread for the info provided. With it, I found out about the TRU preorders sooner rather than later. I will not be telling my full story here because it's a long one, but in short, after 3 days of waiting (started on Friday after hearing there were already 6 in line!), negotiation, and some near fights, my 2 friends and I ended up with 1 20 GB PS3, 4 Wiis, and 3 TMX Elmos with a 60 GB PS3 "guaranteed" to us on launch.

I'm not going to lie, I did this for the money. Standing in line and enduring drama this long is just not worth it if you're only a gamer. By selling them, I'll get money for my time and a system later. But seriously, you have to be ready for the crap people try to pull; corrupt TRU employees, cuts in line, one person holding 4 spots, etc. Have friends with you to back you up. It also helps if you're 6' 6" as well, haha.

This is my first post, but I'll be around a lot from now on. If you live in the SF Bay Area, I'll be seeing you on launch day.

[Wicked93]

Indeed Thanks CAG! At my TRU there was an employee who came out every hour and put everyone on a list, and checked that all the people on the list were still there. Which I think was an awesome move by TRU. The PS3 preorder spots were gone by 4pm saturday, and the Wii's were gone by 2 am sunday. In the morning around 9 and 10 (my TRU opened at 11) alot of people showed up and were trying to skip in line and such, and rushed the list guy when he came out. Seriously that list was awesome.

[gaelan]

my 2 friends and I ended up with 1 20 GB PS3, 4 Wiis, and 3 TMX Elmos with a 60 GB PS3 "guaranteed" to us on launch.


so between 3 of you, you only got 2 ps3's...one of which is a core? how did 3 of you manage to score 4 wii's?

[Wolfpup]

I have something like that for Costco, a sister store to Sam's club. But I'll bet I'm not the only one with that idea in mind.


Costco is NOT a sister store? Sam's club is Wal-Mart's cheezy knock off of Costco. I wish I lived near a Costco still. It's 1000x nicer, has way better and cheaper stuff, and isn't run by an evil corporation.

[malrock]

I love how some people are saying they are "guaranteed" a launch system at toys r us when some of them were the same people saying that those who preordered at ebgames/gamestop won't get one at launch. I don't see any difference in the two preorders. The only difference is that ebgames printed out a disclaimer to cover their asses if they don't get enough where as TRU didn't bother. ^_^

[Snake2715]

Costco is NOT a sister store? Sam's club is Wal-Mart's cheezy knock off of Costco. I wish I lived near a Costco still. It's 1000x nicer, has way better and cheaper stuff, and isn't run by an evil corporation.

Its funny they were both founded in 1983.

[Wolfpup]

Regardless, Sam's Club is a joke compared to Costco. It's like they're trying to go through the motions of being a warehouse store, but the prices aren't usually much if any better than regular stores, their products aren't as good as Costco, etc. Not to mention no one should be buying things from Wal-Mart if they can at all help it.

Thankfully, Costco has been creaming Sam's Club in areas where the two have been in conflict.

[Gojtron]

One kid came at 5 am and asked if it was the line. We said yes, but that all the slots were taken. He said do you work at circuit city? We said no. He said then fuck the list.

That's when just about everyone turned around to stare at him and said, almost in unison, "what did you just say?"

Haha, it was hilarious.

This part did annoy me waiting for the 360. I showed up around 4am to wait and there were people just waiting, handing out numbers, being "in charge". I hardly respect ebay/hoarder scum bossing me around. Yes, it's civil but there is no real logic to it. I'm all for mad dash until an employee makes a decree.

[Michaellvortega]

I say every BB should have a no rules(no kill) cage/latter match with their allotments of PS3s hanging from chains at the top of the cage. Whoever can get to the top and grab a unit gets the right to purchase one.

[Jaguarandine]

so between 3 of you, you only got 2 ps3's...one of which is a core? how did 3 of you manage to score 4 wii's?

Well, only 1 PS3 really. The 60 GB version will be held for us on launch day by a TRU employee. The only thing we have is his word that he'll do this. The forth Wii was acquired through negotiation.

Btw, TRU is not like Eb Games/Gamestop from what I heard. They will actually never put the system out for sale if you preordered. It's gauranteed.

[Tybee]

Costco is NOT a sister store? Sam's club is Wal-Mart's cheezy knock off of Costco. I wish I lived near a Costco still. It's 1000x nicer, has way better and cheaper stuff, and isn't run by an evil corporation.

Amen to that. And they actually pay their employees well and provide them teriffic benefits. They're the anti-WalMart. As we speak, they're putting new tires on my wife's car.

Plus, they have chicken bakes. I just had one. :drool:

Really curious to see what games the Costco bundle comes with.

[MarkMan]

BEST CAMP OUT EVER.

Here in San Diego we had the best PLAYSTATION 3 and Wii campout ever.



A group of gamers from SD TEKKEN (a local gaming group) ended up securing all 7 of the 60G PS3 units and a few of the Wii units by lining up at Saturday 1 AM beating out the rest of the crowd in San Diego at the National City Toys R Us. While most camp outs are considered hell, SDT took advantage of the 30+ hours spent by making it as fun and entertaining as possible.



Check out this set of pictures!



http://flickr.com/photos/sdtekken/sets/72157594351254650/



It was 2 nights of fun. The first night consisted of watching “Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story” on DVD and watching the latest PS3 and Wii trailers. The second night being the more exciting where we played Guitar Hero and the Guitar Hero 2 demo, Final Fantasy XII and finally rounded it off with a screening of Berry Gordy’s “The Last Dragon” !



It certainly was one of the best camp outs I’ve been a part of!



http://static.flickr.com/120/283216357_8e27387fb5_o.jpg

http://static.flickr.com/113/283216343_b8f9998c6d_o.jpg

http://static.flickr.com/99/283216272_e77a110b32_o.jpg

http://static.flickr.com/112/283216239_b7364d9fec_o.jpg

http://static.flickr.com/115/283216299_4f69cd62be_o.jpg

http://static.flickr.com/122/283216096_fdd9c49616_o.jpg

[Jaguarandine]

Nice Markman! Jaguarandine from Norcal Tekken. We met a while back. If you've got any Ebay tips, I'd like to hear them. Maybe on the Norcal thread.

[chrishicks]

I'm just going to wait for the super crazy PS3 bundles where you get everything including a 21yr. old model for something like $25,000.00. this way, my wife will have someone to talk to while I play with my newly purchased PS3.

[Tybee]

BEST CAMP OUT EVER.

LOL...You guys are very lucky you didn't get jacked. You may as well have been projecting a giant sign saying "WE ARE SITTING IN A PARKING LOT AT 3 AM WITH THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS OF A/V GEAR. PLEASE RELIEVE US OF IT!!!"

[Zoglog]

BEST CAMP OUT EVER.

Whatever

At our campout Lindsay Lohan came by and we all tagteamed her. You lose

e-penis ftw

[daveymark]

Whatever

At our campout Lindsay Lohan came by and we all tagteamed her. You lose

e-penis ftw

PWNT

[Tybee]

Whatever

At our campout Lindsay Lohan came by and we all tagteamed her. You lose

e-penis ftw

Did she hand out complimentary bottles of antibiotics afterwards?

[asianxcore]

I love how some people are saying they are "guaranteed" a launch system at toys r us

If I'm not mistaken, it was mentioned that Nintendo and TRU are launch partners for the Nintendo Wii.

Also as long as I've worked at TRU (2+ years), we've never received more printed pre-order slips than allotted units. For 360, we were told to do ONLY 8 pre-order bundles. What happened launch day? We got those 8, as well as around 10+ to sell to anyone who wanted one.

I took a conference call with a bunch of big wigs from our company, a couple months ago, around the time DS Lite broke. At that time TRU was actually talking directly with Nintendo about breaking the street date for the DS Lite, specifically for TRU, and Nintendo was actually considering it.

The pre-orders for the PS3, are kind of iffy at either TRU or EB, but I think most will agree on the most part your average store will be getting at least 5-8 units. If I'm not mistaken all TRU's should have only taken around 8 pre-orders for the PS3 and maybe 15+ for the Nintendo Wii.

I have a hard time believing that TRU corporate would print out a certain number of pre-order slips (with pictures, information, SKU's and such), without having talked to the said companies directly first. Why choose only 15+ pre-orders for Wii when they could've just randomly shot up that number?

TRU and EB's pre-sales have more in common now than they have in the past. EB has finally realized that you have to restrict pre-sales to a point, so that you don't have anyone with a $100 bill in their pocket, wanting to get a pre-sale for a console.

[malrock]

If I'm not mistaken, it was mentioned that Nintendo and TRU are launch partners for the Nintendo Wii.

Also as long as I've worked at TRU (2+ years), we've never received more printed pre-order slips than allotted units. For 360, we were told to do ONLY 8 pre-order bundles. What happened launch day? We got those 8, as well as around 10+ to sell to anyone who wanted one.

I took a conference call with a bunch of big wigs from our company, a couple months ago, around the time DS Lite broke. At that time TRU was actually talking directly with Nintendo about breaking the street date for the DS Lite, specifically for TRU, and Nintendo was actually considering it.

The pre-orders for the PS3, are kind of iffy at either TRU or EB, but I think most will agree on the most part your average store will be getting at least 5-8 units. If I'm not mistaken all TRU's should have only taken around 8 pre-orders for the PS3 and maybe 15+ for the Nintendo Wii.

I have a hard time believing that TRU corporate would print out a certain number of pre-order slips (with pictures, information, SKU's and such), without having talked to the said companies directly first. Why choose only 15+ pre-orders for Wii when they could've just randomly shot up that number?

TRU and EB's pre-sales have more in common now than they have in the past. EB has finally realized that you have to restrict pre-sales to a point, so that you don't have anyone with a $100 bill in their pocket, wanting to get a pre-sale for a console.

I was mainly talking about the PS3 and not the Wii ^_^ Anyway, I wasn't doubting that Toys R Us was selling what they believe they will be getting as told by Sony but what I don't trust is Sony's ability to deliver said # of consoles. Just look, it was reported today that Sony cut it's forecast for it's launch systems in Japan by 20 K. Instead of the 100 K that Japan was going to get they're only getting 80 K. It's less than 2 weeks before launch and they are just letting retailers know that they won't meet the numbers. I have a feeling this will be the case in the US too so technically, no one is "guaranteed" anything when it comes to the PS3 ^_^
http://ps3.ign.com/articles/742/742510p1.html

edit: hell, i'm #9 on my Ebgame's PS3 preorder list and I paid in full. If Sony cuts it's US forecast like it did for Japan i'll more than likely be sol on launch day

[M3wThr33]

LOL...You guys are very lucky you didn't get jacked. You may as well have been projecting a giant sign saying "WE ARE SITTING IN A PARKING LOT AT 3 AM WITH THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS OF A/V GEAR. PLEASE RELIEVE US OF IT!!!"

And here we can see the forum member who thinks that the crime rate is consistent throughout the entire country.

Look at how he froths at the mouth at strangers being able to interact with expensive equipment without it getting jacked.

Note the letters all in caps indicating his hunger for it.

What a beauty.

[rabbitt]

And here we can see the forum member who thinks that the crime rate is consistent throughout the entire country.

Look at how he froths at the mouth at strangers being able to interact with expensive equipment without it getting jacked.

Note the letters all in caps indicating his hunger for it.

What a beauty.

You don't have to live in a bad neighborhood to get your shit lifted.

[Zoglog]

http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/28/nintendo-world-store-manager-enough-wii-for-walk-ins-as-well/

now i'm lauging at the people who waited overnight to preorder a WII

[pyrettablaze]

Yea, I am sure you can just walk into any TRU or EBgames and pick up a Wii on the 19th. Just like how MS had weekly shipments of the 360.

wait....what?

[Superfan]

So I'm not crazy and didn't camp out. i get there at noon yesterday, one hour after it opened, and they looked at me like I was mad when I asked to preorder it. They told me some people had camped out since 6PM sat. Crazy campoutters.

[evilsnowman]

Well that was the lamest line ever! The Seattle crowd pulled their cars along the building to wait in line. No one standing outside, just sitting in their cars. And after most of them got out and stood in line there were soo many place holders it was crazy! What ever happened to waiting in the line. The losers were trying to sell their spaces and orders right there infront of the TRU employees. And to top it off all of the guys were loading up on 2 Elmo dolls each and all the parents with kids at the back of the line had to leave with nothing. All that was left for me was an Elmo doll which I let go to the next person...why...because while I like shopping for deals, I am not some loser scalper that takes pics of himself in the line pretending that he has a social life while all he really has is his mom's credit card, his moms and a bad case of virginity.