Reggie Says Nintendo Won't Meet Holiday Demand

[FriskyTanuki]

http://www.next-gen.biz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7320&Itemid=2

Despite recently promising (http://www.next-gen.biz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7173&Itemid=2) that North America would be receiving “unprecedented” levels of stock, Fils-Aime told the Mercury News (http://origin.mercurynews.com/business/ci_7036618?nclick_check=1) that Nintendo’s drive to boost Wii production in a bid to satisfy consumer demand was doomed to failure.

“We're working very hard to make sure that consumers are satisfied this holiday, but I can't guarantee that we're going to meet demand. As a matter of fact, I can tell you on the record we won't.”

Nintendo was highly confident that its Wii system was going to sell well, says Fils-Aime, but demand for this year’s fastest-selling console has far outstripped the company’s estimates.

“What I can tell you is that typically, our inventory is lasting a day… The issue is not a lack of production. The issue is we went in with a curve that was aggressive, but the demand has been substantially more than that. And the ability to ramp up production and to sustain it is not a switch that you flick on. It's a lever.”

Fils-Aime said that those hoping to secure a Wii this holiday should target a range of retailers, build up a dialogue with store managers, and stop in on a frequent basis.

“The only other pragmatic advice is that we're aware of the situation, and we're working very hard to address it. Believe me, I'm constantly pushing for more capacity and more volume.”

Nintendo’s Wii has reportedly (http://www.next-gen.biz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7146&Itemid=59) become the biggest selling next-gen console to date. The success of the system has seen Nintendo’s stock rise to new heights (http://www.next-gen.biz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7254&Itemid=59) over the past year. However, Fils-Aime said that the firm won’t be resting on its laurels, and that a successor to the Wii is already in mind.

“You know, our hardware group, literally as soon as the system's out the door, they're already thinking about what's next. That's true for any of our platforms.”
Not a surprise, but it's an interesting choice of words. It's not that they can't meet the demand, just that they won't meet it.

[cochesecochese]

Man, I forgot about that guy.

[seanr1221]

Looks like I'll be eBaying a couple systems to pay for christmas gifts this year.

[Cambot]

Not a surprise, but it's an interesting choice of words. It's not that they can't meet the demand, just that they won't meet it.

It's that they can't meet demand based on the production schedule they've locked themselves (and, more importantly, their manufacturers) into. It's not as if they can walk into the production facilities and tell the factory managers "Hey, as it turns out, we're selling sh*tloads of these things. More than we thought! So do us a favor and ramp production up to meet our new demand! Peace out."

Especially if they're already running at capacity.

[mykevermin]

It's that they can't meet demand based on the production schedule they've locked themselves (and, more importantly, their manufacturers) into. It's not as if they can walk into the production facilities and tell the factory managers "Hey, as it turns out, we're selling sh*tloads of these things. More than we thought! So do us a favor and ramp production up to meet our new demand! Peace out."

Especially if they're already running at capacity.

Given Nintendo's track record of exploiting the time-honored tradition of keeping supplies low to spike demand, I think you're off your rocker if you believe that Nintendo could not get another line up and running in a year.

Maybe they're waiting on the special chips, just like they did for Zelda II.

[Snake2715]

I have been seeing wii's more and more... I read this article two ways..

A) They have seen some drop off of sales, and want to see if they can make it the "IT" system to have again this Christmas. Tell everyone early it will sell out and it just might.

B) They are just covering their ass if it does sell out again... this way they can say "told you so" to try an avoid a possible backlash.

[Dr Mario Kart]

They're being conservative so they're not stuck with too many units once the fad dies out.

[Strell]

Given Nintendo's track record of exploiting the time-honored tradition of keeping supplies low to spike demand, I think you're off your rocker if you believe that Nintendo could not get another line up and running in a year.


I think no one is disputing that they can't get more production going, because they've done this in the past (I believe DSL production had a new factory commissioned for it).

Nintendo is a frugal company and they don't see the need to drop X million to churn out systems for something that could theoretically have halted demand after Christmas of this year. Or, as all those analysts like to speculate, the bubble bursting/floor falling out/etc.

I think a lot of the negative commentary about it - "oh this is artificial" - is just that. Commentary. Because the gamer set just can't wrap their heads around the system selling as well as it is, even a year later. Gosh, them low polygon counts sure do make one's head spin!

It makes me wonder how so many people eat sushi. I hate sushi! I think all those people are lying.

[slidecage]

Im thinking about buying the Wii just to play

Shining in the darkness
shining force
and breath of fire 2 on the download thingie

Then again i could just boot up those same games and play them on my nomad : )

[MisterHand]

They're being conservative so they're not stuck with too many units once the fad dies out.The Wii has been out for nearly a year and is still hard to find. How long does something have to keep going to no longer be considered a "fad"?

[Strell]

The Wii has been out for nearly a year and is still hard to find. How long does something have to keep going to no longer be considered a "fad"?

I dunno. Ask Dave Perry, Micheal Pachter, David Gaffe, all the Sony execs, the "hardcore" gaming community....

[Derrick1979]

I still will stand and say the Wii-shortage is Nintendo's doing to keep the system hot..

With Mario Galaxy and SSBB dropping this holiday season they would be stupid to not have systems to meet the demands those two games will generate..

They keep this up and more and more people are going to get sick of hunting these things and end up buying a PS3,360 seeing it takes no effort to find one..

I know he did not state any concrete direction to Nintendo already in production of a new system but to even mention that less than a year after the Wii launch and looking at the line-up of games it almost makes me think that the Wii is a temporary hitch to get people interested back in Nintendo systems besides the DS/GBA...

I don't know call me a hater or whatever but after all the big name games drop the systems line-up seems pretty weak and how long before people get tired of all the horrible multi-plat games and mini game sets?

and after thier huge E3 event focused around casual gamers and Wii Fit it looks pretty bleek lol..

[Strell]

I don't know call me a hater or whatever

Well we tend to call your types "trolls" but sure.

I mean, how does one respond to nonsense like your's? You're just going to refute it and call me a fanboy, amirite?

I mean, "get people interested back in Nintendo." Their handhelds alone are the best selling hardware in existence and continue to be.

But you'll fluff this off as "omfg, u r teh Nintendo felator" and other bullshit.

So I ask you, what is the point?

Go and cry in the 360 or PS3 forums about the trolls in there, since I'm guessing you want your cake both ways.

[snipegod]

I still will stand and say the Wii-shortage is Nintendo's doing to keep the system hot..

With Mario Galaxy and SSBB dropping this holiday season they would be stupid to not have systems to meet the demands those two games will generate..

They keep this up and more and more people are going to get sick of hunting these things and end up buying a PS3,360 seeing it takes no effort to find one..

I know he did not state any concrete direction to Nintendo already in production of a new system but to even mention that less than a year after the Wii launch and looking at the line-up of games it almost makes me think that the Wii is a temporary hitch to get people interested back in Nintendo systems besides the DS/GBA...

I don't know call me a hater or whatever but after all the big name games drop the systems line-up seems pretty weak and how long before people get tired of all the horrible multi-plat games and mini game sets?

and after thier huge E3 event focused around casual gamers and Wii Fit it looks pretty bleek lol..

You nailed one point on the head, hater.

[FriskyTanuki]

I dunno. Ask Dave Perry, Micheal Pachter, David Gaffe, all the Sony execs, the "hardcore" gaming community....
When did David Jaffe bash the Wii? Maybe you're refering to Cory Barlog (http://kotaku.com/gaming/cory-barlog/gow2-dev-gets-wii-gets-disappointed-238787.php)?

[Derrick1979]

You nailed one point on the head, hater.


Well I can say from hands on with the Wii seeing after 2 months I tracked one down and after about a month of having it I sold it because the control sucked to me and I just wanted to go back to some kind of regular controller seeing thats what I have been using for years...

I got it and purchased a few games and had some downloads but after looking towards the future games nothing really tickled my pickle...

I am allowed to voice my opinion seeing I was a Wii owner...

[javeryh]

Maybe they're waiting on the special chips, just like they did for Zelda II.

:D Seriously. They've had a YEAR of steady sales to "fix" the manufacturing process. They like it like this - they always have. We can put a man on the moon but you mean to tell me Nintendo can't open up a second manufacturing plant? Hahaha...

[Strell]

When did David Jaffe bash the Wii? Maybe you're refering to Cory Barlog (http://kotaku.com/gaming/cory-barlog/gow2-dev-gets-wii-gets-disappointed-238787.php)?

One. (http://gonintendo.com/?p=21272)

Two. (http://gonintendo.com/?p=11941)

[jthieme]

Pokemon is a fad too. It will probably never last another 10 years.

[Dr Mario Kart]

I do think they're being a bit too conservative about this, as they generally are with their business matters.

I understand that they dont want a surplus after the demand drops to a non-launch level (and when manufacturing costs will be lower), but surely they must know how important initial marketshare is, and that even if its not entirely efficient, they need to get the units out there.

They HAVE increased the Wii output, from something like 1 million a month to 1.25-1.5 million a month. The U.S. is also the only region with a major, consistent shortage going on.

Maybe if they werent also selling 2 million DSes a month, they'd be a little more comfortable with a greater increase.

[daroga]

I don't really care whose fault it is. I'm still baffled that the system continues its massive stock-sellthrough.

If we only saw the Wii moving 100,000 units a month, that would be questionable, but it continues to sell like it's the cure to cancer or something. There's no doubt that it's somewhat "caused" by Nintendo--insofaras they refuse to get so many lines up and running so as to leave them with a massive overstock situation. And Nintendo would much rather have the "Call stores and see if its in!" aspect rather than the, "FREELY AVAILABLE ALL OVER THE PLACE!" Because people are idiots and even if they don't want it, will buy it just because it's hard to come by.

I've been a fan of Nintendo's move fairly soon after the Revolution's controller was revealed. I was excited to get it right away. I was shocked at the inital demand of the thing but if you would've told me on November 19 that here on October 1st we'd be having the same issues with the Wii having surpassed (or come REALLY close, depending on the numbers you go with) the 360 in hardware sold? I'd have laughed in your face.

I'd be curious to know what the principle drive behind the "fad" is. Is it still the novelty of Wii Sports, et al.? Is it the above-mentioned "HAVE IT CAUSE IT'S RARE!"? Or is it the few great titles that are already out and the few more that are coming this holiday season?

[SaraAB]

I have only seen a Wii ONCE in a store since the initial launch of the system. This is utterly ridiculous, people are going to start buying the other 2 consoles because they are actually available, since this Wii shortage thing has gone way overboard. If they want to target the holiday shoppers they better have their systems in stores, because these are the people who are looking for a video game system for their kid, probably want the Wii but will be willing to make another choice in order to have something under the tree on christmas morning. They don't understand how it works in America, people spend oodles of money during the holidays and don't spend much during the other times of the year, so they would be completely foolish to not ramp up production for the holiday season. Holiday shoppers here are not dead-set on one particular system, they just want to get something under the tree on Dec. 24th, and if Nintendo's product is not out there, they do not have a fighting chance.

If they want to keep the product hot, release some GOOD games or release new colors of the system, don't create an artificial shortage of the system, because people will then just buy something else.

[FriskyTanuki]

One. (http://gonintendo.com/?p=21272)
Doesn't bash the Wii a bit.

Two. (http://gonintendo.com/?p=11941)
I remember that. He's not bashing it at all. Just says he wanted one, but couldn't find one anywhere and when asked to list a negative about the Wii, he wonders if first party success will filter down to the third parties and keep the system going. Not much of anything that's bashing unless you're extremely picky or finicky.

Keep the links coming.

[Strell]

I have only seen a Wii ONCE in a store since the initial launch of the system. This is utterly ridiculous, people are going to start buying the other 2 consoles because they are actually available, since this Wii shortage thing has gone way overboard. If they want to target the holiday shoppers they better have their systems in stores, because these are the people who are looking for a video game system for their kid, probably want the Wii but will be willing to make another choice in order to have something under the tree on christmas morning. They don't understand how it works in America, people spend oodles of money during the holidays and don't spend much during the other times of the year, so they would be completely foolish to not ramp up production for the holiday season. Holiday shoppers here are not dead-set on one particular system, they just want to get something under the tree on Dec. 24th, and if Nintendo's product is not out there, they do not have a fighting chance.

If they want to keep the product hot, release some GOOD games or release new colors of the system, don't create an artificial shortage of the system, because people will then just buy something else.

So which is it, smart guy?

The system sells without any good games - as you see it - and only sells due to fanatic shoppers, or it "gets good games" and proceeds to sell out more?

And then on top of that, if they sell out, "they don't stand a fighting chance." Gosh, if I eat apples for dinner and fill up on apples, then it sure does suck for the apple farmer when I can't eat any more apples! They just lost their chance! Stupid apple farmers!

MS and Sony would kill for that situation. Kill for it. And just might, if their ad execs go crazy enough.

I'm curious how some of you people manage to make it through the day and not severely hurt yourself.

[botticus]

I know he did not state any concrete direction to Nintendo already in production of a new system but to even mention that less than a year after the Wii launch and looking at the line-up of games it almost makes me think that the Wii is a temporary hitch to get people interested back in Nintendo systems besides the DS/GBA...
Every company starts to work on their next hardware release immediately after their current one is out. They have hardware teams... what else would they do in the meantime? Sony or MS (can't remember which) said the exact same thing when asked after their launch.

[blandstalker]

I have two interesting things to share. I'm a happy Wii owner, so I'm not a hater.

Item 1: History Repeating


"Inventory Management" is what Peter Main called it. The Atari wave had floundered in large part becasue of a flooded market. Main made certain that scarcity whetted the public's appetite and sustained demand as Coleco had done in 1984, when there was a shortage of Cabbage Patch Kids. By design, Nintendo did not fill all of the retailer's orders, and it kept half or more of its library of games inactive.
[...]
NOA's reputation began to be suspect around the time of the most severe game shortages. Although Nintendo orchestrated some of the shortages, they were worse than it had planned, and consumer demand was higher than the most ambitious forecasts. In 1990, retailers were furious when Nintendo couldn't deliver as many systems as they could have sold that year.

This is from Game Over, by David Sheff. It's talking about the NES, but might as well be talking about the Wii. What's the old expression? Fool me once, shame on you...fool me twice, shame on me.

Item 2: And You Thought Wal-Mart Owned the World

This one is personal experience. I was in Wal-Mart, waiting forever in the electronics department for a cashier. This was about a month ago. The people in front of me had called over a department manager. They said they had a "voucher" for a Wii that they'd had since Christmas, and wanted to know why they couldn't ever find one.

The manager pleaded ignorance to the specifics of the voucher, but then began talking about the Wii. He said that he could personally order anything in the department...except the Wii. Of all the items that Wal-Mart carries, only the Wii is shipped directly from Nintendo and completely out of Wal-Mart's hands. Every other item goes to Wal-Mart's distribution centers and is then shipped to stores. Not the Wii.

He then proceeded to call over his buyer, who told the same story. They have no control over how many they get, when they arrive, or, well, anything. It's all completely in Nintendo's hands.


So, what do these two items mean? Not much, really.

Nintendo is doing what it does because they believe it will maximize sales of Wii and Wii software. Too many and the market is flooded. Too few, and retailers get pissed. Just the right amount and it's "in demand". This isn't a conspiracy and it's neither illegal nor unethical. Nintendo has a strategy and is pursuing it, and it seems to be working for them.

Would the Wii be in demand anyway? Maybe. It's a fun system and it's different. It's got games people want to play. (Well, at least now it does.) And while kewl graphics and HD is exciting to some people, it's not what everybody wants or needs now. The Wii looks and plays just fine for a lot of people, certainly enough to grasp a big share of the market.

They're also by far the cheapest option and they have the most recognizeable games (Halo 3 perhaps being the first big exception). Just being in demand isn't enough if your product doesn't fill some consumer need.

It's also true that no business, least of all one as smart as Nintendo, wants to make so many of their item that they get stuck with a huge inventory. Apart from being a bad perception, it also has accounting ramifications. Or, to quote again, "Nintendo would rather have them pleading for more than have to worry about excess inventory." That's Game Over again.

Does the idea that Nintendo can't make enough Wii make sense? No, not really. There are tons of 360s and PS3s. Sony and Microsoft somehow found a way to keep shelves stocked with product that is more expensive and harder to make. I used to think there might be some technological bottleneck in the Wii, but there isn't. The inescapable conclusion is that the current situation is what Nintendo wants. And, honestly, who wouldn't want their product to be constantly sold out everywhere.

Nintendo took a bunch of risks for this generation, and it worked. Risks don't always work out that way -- go ask Sony. And if Nintendo is gaming the market, the market is playing along. Personally, I'm glad the Wii is having the amount of success it is having. It is good for Wii owners in the long run.

[Reality's Fringe]

Brawl + Galaxy= FTW holiday. Have to give credit to Nintendo for making the cash.

[Chris in Cali]

Total BS, the Wii must be easy as shit to produce and manufacture compared to the PS3 and Xbox 360. If there's a shortage it's because Nintendo is creating it. I'm not saying there isn't a demand for shitty games with poor control, I'm just saying Nintendo is really dragging this "we can make enough Wiis" thing out way too far.

[TimPV3]

Has anybody here played their Wii regularly since launch? I've tried, but shit, the games on PS3/360 just seem like more fun.

[snipegod]

Chris in Cali: Sucks.

[Strell]

Ahh good. The flood of stupid shit begins.

I timed it. You guys only took 20 minutes this time.

[botticus]

Has anybody here played their Wii regularly since launch? I've tried, but shit, the games on PS3/360 just seem like more fun.Just spent three weeks playing MP3. What's your point again?

[mykevermin]

A corollary of this argument is an opinion I've had for a long time. Sony's spending a fuckton of money to airlift PS3 shipments to the US at launch really harmed them. They tried to meet demand, and found demand had left a note that said "waiting for a Wii, kthxbye."

So they overspent tons of money, and found that they were left with a nightmare. They couldn't sell the ones they had, and gamers began to photograph and laugh about the unwanted mountains of consoles sitting in stores.

Now, I'm not making any sort of claim that would suggest we'd be any different in terms of console sales at the moment if they PS3 had been shipped by boat (more traditional, cheaper, but slower), or if the Wii had been made so easily available. I think, even in that case, the sales differences would be a couple hundred thousand different than what they currently are. But the perceptions of the consoles gained by these two business approaches (Sony's overzealousness in trying to sate demand gave consumers the perception that the PS3 was an unwanted bastard console, and Nintendo's deliberate throttling of the market to keep demand always a micron above the actual supply still gives consumers the perception that everybody and their grandmother, quite literally, wants one of these things) do have, and will continue to have, long lasting effects this console generation.

[rodeojones903]

Has anybody here played their Wii regularly since launch? I've tried, but shit, the games on PS3/360 just seem like more fun.

Only game I have played extensively/purchased since launch is MP3. IMO its the only wii game worth paying for so far.

[benjamouth]

I fully agree with the opinion that Nintendo don't want to spend huge amounts of money increasing their manufacturing output, to then find themselves with an excess.

It doesn't make any sense to say Nintendo should increase output so they have Wii's sitting on shelves, how does that help them ?

If you want to point fingers at someone for the Wii shortage, how about retailers? Retailers that let someone come into their store, buy multiple Wii's, then put their hands up and say "Nintendo aren't making enough". I mean use a bit of common sense people, if something is in high demand, limit it to one per customer.

[kdunn77]

It seems like we are forgetting Nintendo's current philosophy, which is "We're not competing with Microsoft and Sony." To the majority of Nintendo's NEW target demographic (40-90 year olds) the 360 and PS3 is too difficult to play, so the 360 and PS3 are not valid alternatives to the Wii.

And as far as ramping up production goes, just look at Japan and the DS Lite, sure demand was/is there, but Nintendo has not added the necessary additional production lines or plants to meet that demand and have stock just sitting on shelves. Adding those facilities costs money and makes for less profit per unit, so if the demand is going to remain (since there is no alternative), why cut your profit per unit? Hardcore gamers will seek an alternative (PS3 and 360) because you can, the NEW demographic can't.

[javeryh]

Has anybody here played their Wii regularly since launch? I've tried, but shit, the games on PS3/360 just seem like more fun.

I've been playing the crap out of MP3 and before that I played the crap out of Zelda and RE4 so it's been OK so far. I still like my 360 more but the Wii (after Mario Galaxy hopefully) will have given me 4 AAA games this year which is all I'm really looking for out of the console. Anything else is just gravy.

[blandstalker]

Ahh good. The flood of stupid shit begins.


No, no. My shit may be overly wordy and boring, but it is not stupid.

And it was exhaustively researched.

[daroga]

I've been playing the crap out of MP3 and before that I played the crap out of Zelda and RE4 so it's been OK so far. I still like my 360 more but the Wii (after Mario Galaxy hopefully) will have given me 4 AAA games this year which is all I'm really looking for out of the console. Anything else is just gravy.Exactly. I'm starting to wonder how much time people spend playing games in a given month. The aforementioned titles and including Super Paper Mario & Mario Strikers have given me a ton of games to play. I like having a 360 to play games as well, but thus far the only games on that system that have justified their spot on my shelf are Halo 3 and Guitar Hero 2. Everything else was played then sold. For the Wii, Strikers, Zelda, and Prime 3 have their spots carved into my collection.

Why does every thread about the Wii turn into "IT HAS NO GAMES!"?

[Snake2715]

What system comes out with a shit ton of great games the first year anyway? This has held true for every system I can remember (except arguably the Dreamcast and that didn't help it).

This whole deal about not having games to play is just bitter people trolling. I wish i had the time to finish paper Mario, shit I am just getting back into Hotel dusk and loving every minute of it, I have had that game since release.

I just finished Metal Slug compilation up this weekend and that game can be easy as anything if you use the free play.

[botticus]

And as far as ramping up production goes, just look at Japan and the DS Lite, sure demand was/is there, but Nintendo has not added the necessary additional production lines or plants to meet that demand and have stock just sitting on shelves. Adding those facilities costs money and makes for less profit per unit, so if the demand is going to remain (since there is no alternative), why cut your profit per unit? Hardcore gamers will seek an alternative (PS3 and 360) because you can, the NEW demographic can't.That's actually a better example than you know. DS Lites are currently readily available in Japan (ONLY selling about 60-70k a week), after being practically sold out for over a year. Had Nintendo increased production more than they did, they'd have untold thousands more on shelves or clogging the pipeline.

[guyver2077]

i call bs. the big n is so full of it

[Strell]

No, no. My shit may be overly wordy and boring, but it is not stupid.

And it was exhaustively researched.

Which is exactly why I wouldn't have included your words within that far-flung net, but ok.

[daroga]

i call bs. the big n is so full of itbs? :-k

[Dr Mario Kart]

BS is Bolivian currency I think. They can arrange for it if they like.

[Strell]

The irony of a wrestling fan calling something out on bs is staggering.

It's off the charts.

It's off the radar.

It's off the chain.

It's off the hizzy.

It's off the radizidar.

It's on the chain. And then off it again.

Also, it's the opposite of on. With the chain. I mean. Again.

[daroga]

BS is Bolivian currency I think. They can arrange for it if they like.Ah, so it's pretty easy to come by in Bolivia then?

[dmaul1114]

No surprise here. I've still not seen one in the wild. Not actively looking, but everytime I do check there are PS3's and 360s in the case but no Wiis.

If they're not in stock now, why would they be when the demand goes up for X-mas and Mario/Smash Bros?

[mykevermin]

The irony of a wrestling fan calling something out on bs is staggering.

I bet you're the first person to ever make that observation.

[Strell]

I bet you're the first person to ever make that observation.

I bet I was the first person in this thread to do it.

[io]

Funny stuff, as usual...

I have actually seen Wii's on the shelves several times in the past two weeks. They seem way more readily available then ever before. That's not to say they are shelf-sitting - they were gone from all those places shortly afterwards, but I was seeing them at stores in the evening that usually get morning shipments. I suspect this is the brief interlude before holiday sales ramp up, though, and this is as easy as it will get.

And anyone who says the Wii has no games and hasn't played Metroid Prime 3 (especially if they are a 360 fan and like all the generic shooters over there) is full of it... Yeah, sure, the Wii is not chock full of AAA titles, but it will get there (along with tons of crap ala the PS2 last gen - the "curse" of being the most popular system I suppose).

[drfunk85]

Jesus christ, Nintendo isn't investing tons of money to build new manufacturing plants, but they aren't holding any back.

They don't have to "create" a shortage. When you sell more product in half the time as your biggest competitor, the demand is creating a shortage. 11 million people didn't go out and buy Wiis just because Nintendo didn't build another manufacturing plant.

[Strell]

(along with tons of crap ala the PS2 last gen - the "curse" of being the most popular system I suppose).

Sony fans in those troubled days of the early PS2 screamed about "WAIT 'TIL MGS2!" like they were trying to get good service at the post office.

[CocheseUGA]

Told you so.

Now I'm going to have to buy a couple to sell in December. Hate to do it, it goes against my principles, but people are going to need gifts.

[dmaul1114]

Sony fans in those troubled days of the early PS2 screamed about "WAIT 'TIL MGS2!" like they were trying to get good service at the post office.

And PS3 fans are screaming "WAIT 'TIL MGS4!" and 360 fans "WAIT 'TIL GEARS OF WAR!"

The Wii isn't unique in not having a ton of AAA games the first year (with Zelda, MP3, Mario Galaxy all in year 1, and Smash Bros 1 month after, one could say it's doing as well or better for sure in that regard).

First years of consoles tend to be slow, if someone wants a bunch of AAA games to play, they shouldn't buy at launch. They should wait until the 2nd or 3rd year, a price drop or two, and save some money and have a nice library of games to choose from.

[Strell]

I thought you had me on ignore.

The point of that post is that every console has that, but the Wii is apparently the worst offender, which is hypocritical on some level.

[dmaul1114]

I occasionally click view post if I'm bored.

I don't think the Wii gets labeled as the worst offender. Every system has/had it's haters bashing it for not having any games (tons of such posts in PS3 forums this year for instance).

You probably just notice it more with the Wii as you're a Nintendo fan. Just like Sony fans in the PS3 forum bitching about how everyone is saying the PS3 has no games.

[sblymnlcrymnl]

I haven't seen a Wii in the wild since December. And that was just once.


Though I have a friend who works at Best Buy and he tells me they usually have them in stock.

[rodeojones903]

I haven't seen a Wii in the wild since December. And that was just once.


Though I have a friend who works at Best Buy and he tells me they usually have them in stock.


We get them in quite often and have them in stock for a few days before they sell out at the BB over here. The other week we got it about 100 of them for the Sunday ad.

[mykevermin]

The point of that post is that every console has that, but the Wii is apparently the worst offender, which is hypocritical on some level.

Now that's absurd, if you think people dole out the "Wii has no games" argument more than they dole out the "PS3 has no games" argument.

[Strell]

Now that's absurd, if you think people dole out the "Wii has no games" argument more than they dole out the "PS3 has no games" argument.

I'll have to take your word for it since I don't really hang out in the PS3 forum.

Except that pretty much every Sony fan pulls out "OMFG WAIT FOR MGS4" everytime I see that come up.

I sometimes start to think MGS4 is code for something. Like "it comes with a FREE POOL!" And maybe I've just missed that every last time I've read about it.

[Zen Davis]

Considering they aren't selling any Wiis in Japan, I think there will be quite enough available for the USA.

[mykevermin]

It seems to me that most of the accusations levied against the Wii are rarely in reference to the games for it (aside from the punch-you-in-the-cock style of third party support that pervades many of the releases), but more along the lines of "myah, it's just a fad," or the more insipid "LOL GRAFX LOL."

It's hard to dispute that Zelda, SPM, and Metroid are amazing games (I'm not holding my breah on Galaxy, given how little I liked Sunshine); OTOH, some gamers have built in excuses for not liking PS3 games (Heavenly Sword is too short, Lair sucks, Ninja Gaiden is a remake, Eye of Judgment is for homos, etc., etc.).

[VanillaGorilla]

Perhaps Nintendo needs to make fewer "Wii made people play" self promotion television commercials, and more of the actual consoles themselves.

Funny, people accused Sony and MS of deliberatley creating shortages to increase hype, and yet, shockingly, I've yet to hear this about Nintendo, even though their console is the cheapest and easiest to manufacture. But hey, we all know Nintendo doesn't adhere to the same standards as the other guys, right?

It's really a shame. Now, thanks to this shortage, hundreds of thousands of fat housewives won't have a big white object to stradle this Christmas (besides my cock), as they fool themselves into thinking Wii Fit will make their husbands love them again.

[Strell]

There's only one of you, Gorgirra, and already that's mass over-production.

[mykevermin]

Funny, people accused Sony and MS of deliberatley creating shortages to increase hype, and yet, shockingly, I've yet to hear this about Nintendo, even though their console is the cheapest and easiest to manufacture. But hey, we all know Nintendo doesn't adhere to the same standards as the other guys, right?

Are you fucking kidding me?

[botticus]

Are you fucking kidding me?He means that in a "La la la, I can't hear you" sort of way.

I'll just add that I saw two Wiis in the case at Target yesterday (and my friend scooped one up at his Target today), for my first sighting since mid-December at TRU.

[VanillaGorilla]

I'll have to take your word for it since I don't really hang out in the PS3 forum.

Except that pretty much every Sony fan pulls out "OMFG WAIT FOR MGS4" everytime I see that come up.

Yes, because Nintendo fans certainly haven't been doing the same exact thing with Smash Brothers Brawl...

[VanillaGorilla]

Are you fucking kidding me?I have yet to see it. And even if it is out there, it's nowhere near as prominent as it would be if it were Sony or Microsoft.

[botticus]

I have yet to see it. And even if it is out there, it's nowhere near as prominent as it would be if it were Sony or Microsoft.No seriously... are you kidding? Sony was accused of this for perhaps a day, while MS either did it, or was just horrendous with inventory management and had a terrible first four months on the market. Nintendo could be, and for the last 10 months most definitely has been, accused of holding back stock, but damn if they didn't sell a hell of a lot more than either of the others in that time period.

[mykevermin]

I first heard about Nintendo deliberately withholding stock almost 20 years ago. They did it with Zelda II, they did it with the SNES, N64, and also the original Game Boy, I believe (at the very least).

[Zen Davis]

I first heard about Nintendo deliberately withholding stock almost 20 years ago. They did it with Zelda II, they did it with the SNES, N64, and also the original Game Boy, I believe (at the very least).

I heard the opposite with the 64. They were not going to have enough and yet they consoes never seemed to sell out.

[trq]

It's hard to dispute that Zelda, SPM, and Metroid are amazing games (I'm not holding my breah on Galaxy, given how little I liked Sunshine); OTOH, some gamers have built in excuses for not liking PS3 games (Heavenly Sword is too short, Lair sucks, Ninja Gaiden is a remake, Eye of Judgment is for homos, etc., etc.).

Well ... maybe I'm wearing my preference on my sleeve, but Heavenly Sword, Warhawk, Lair, etc. are really only regarded as "pretty good" at best by any critical/commercial consensus you'd care to use, and as such, their nearest compatriots on the Wii are Rival Swords (remake), Red Steel (sucks, but some people dig the controls), Elebits (for homos/babies), and so on, not TP/Metroid.

I first heard about Nintendo deliberately withholding stock almost 20 years ago. They did it with Zelda II, they did it with the SNES, N64, and also the original Game Boy, I believe (at the very least).

No question. In fact, this whole technique is taught in business schools as a Nintendo-pioneered tactic. Sony and MS have clearly learned the lesson well, but of course Nintendo is doing this at least partly intentionally. What I'm surprised about is the surprise about this. Nintendo said, at least as far back as the summer, that they're not ramping up production beyond certain levels. They're making a certain number each month, and that's that. If that meets demand, great. If not, too bad.

Yes, because Nintendo fans certainly haven't been doing the same exact thing with Smash Brothers Brawl...

Why would they, with three AAA titles hitting before Brawl?

I have yet to see it. And even if it is out there, it's nowhere near as prominent as it would be if it were Sony or Microsoft.

You could try ... I don't know. Reading the thread you're posting in.

[mykevermin]

Well ... maybe I'm wearing my preference on my sleeve, but Heavenly Sword, Warhawk, Lair, etc. are really only regarded as "pretty good" at best by any critical/commercial consensus you'd care to use, and as such, their nearest compatriots on the Wii are Rival Swords (remake), Red Steel (sucks, but some people dig the controls), Elebits (for homos/babies), and so on, not TP/Metroid.

Preferences or not (I'd tend to agree with you), all that does is reinforce, to some degree, how much easier it is to make "PS3 has no games" claims compared to the Wii.

[Dr Mario Kart]

Yes, but Nintendo is pretty much the only target of the non-game/mini-game attack.

[dmaul1114]

Because they have a disproportionate amount of non-game/minigames to real games in the library at the time being.

So that's a fair complaint--as long as people aren't saying it ONLY has non-games/minigames.

[The Crotch]

Because they have a disproportionate amount of non-game/minigames to real games in the library at the time being.

So that's a fair complaint--as long as people aren't saying it ONLY has non-games/minigames.How, exactly, is it an actual downside? Does the mere presence of these minigame collections somehow weaken the real games (developer resources going from normal to mini games aside)?

[whoknows]

I'll have to take your word for it since I don't really hang out in the PS3 forum.

Except that pretty much every Sony fan pulls out "OMFG WAIT FOR MGS4" everytime I see that come up.

I sometimes start to think MGS4 is code for something. Like "it comes with a FREE POOL!" And maybe I've just missed that every last time I've read about it.
There's a lot more games besides MGS4, but I'm not going to argue with you about it. ;)

[Dr Mario Kart]

has "wait for ____" ever worked.....ever?

While we're on it: Lifetime sales in Japan


PS2 MGS2: 832,719
PS2 MGS3: 819,807

Compare to Minna no Golf:

PS2 MnG3: 921,901
PS2 MnG4: 1,083,079

PS3 MnG5: 314,261

http://www.japan-gamecharts.com/

[whoknows]

has "wait for ____" ever worked.....ever?

While we're on it: Lifetime sales in Japan


PS2 MGS2: 832,719
PS2 MGS3: 819,807

Compare to Minna no Golf:

PS2 MnG3: 921,901
PS2 MnG4: 1,083,079

PS3 MnG5: 314,261

http://www.japan-gamecharts.com/

Got US numbers?

[Dr Mario Kart]

No, but I understand its a stronger franchise here.

I think "wait for ___" only works if there are 6 or 7 blanks. 5 of them are games, 1 of them is the price, and 1 of them is what your competitors are doing/have done.

[dmaul1114]

How, exactly, is it an actual downside? Does the mere presence of these minigame collections somehow weaken the real games (developer resources going from normal to mini games aside)?

The latter is the only part that bothers me (since I loathe minigames). Would rather see more resources going to normal games.

I only like pick up and play stuff on the handhelds, and even then really only puzzle games rather than minigames.

[dmaul1114]

No, but I understand its a stronger franchise here.

I think "wait for ___" only works if there are 6 or 7 blanks. 5 of them are games, 1 of them is the price, and 1 of them is what your competitors are doing/have done.

I agree with that in part, as that's how I buy consoles. Has to have several games I want out or coming soon and a price I'm willing to pay.

But many times it is really one game that someone really wants that gets them to buy a console. But of course, in past gens consoles were $199-$299 right from the outset so impulse buys were easier to swing.

[FriskyTanuki]

Sony fans in those troubled days of the early PS2 screamed about "WAIT 'TIL MGS2!" like they were trying to get good service at the post office.
Really? You got a link for that one, too? ;)

Seriously, I don't recall that, especially with GT3 coming out in the summer and being one of the biggest games of the generation. And with FFX and GTA III also coming out, I don't see how MGS2 could've been the lone savior game for the PS2's first year.

[mykevermin]

has "wait for ____" ever worked.....ever?

While we're on it: Lifetime sales in Japan


PS2 MGS2: 832,719
PS2 MGS3: 819,807

Compare to Minna no Golf:

PS2 MnG3: 921,901
PS2 MnG4: 1,083,079

PS3 MnG5: 314,261

http://www.japan-gamecharts.com/

Wait for the 360 to take off in Japan!

[Monsta Mack]

So Reggie is basically saying "Go out and buy your Wii's now, because come this Christmas the eBay value will be good." Thanks Reggie ;)

[dmaul1114]

Really? You got a link for that one, too? ;)

Seriously, I don't recall that, especially with GT3 coming out in the summer and being one of the biggest games of the generation. And with FFX and GTA III also coming out, I don't see how MGS2 could've been the lone savior game for the PS2's first year.

The PS2 came out in the fall. GT3 was the first game worth playing IMO (didn't care for Tekken Tag and the other launch crap) and the first AAA game on the system. It came out nearly 6 months after launch. The rest of that year was pretty slow as well.

[Derrick1979]

Ahh good. The flood of stupid shit begins.

I timed it. You guys only took 20 minutes this time.

Why do you act like no one can state an opinion unless it favors everyone else?

[Strell]

Why do you act like no one can state an opinion unless it favors everyone else?

I'm sorry, I forgot it's not my opinion to call other opinions stupid shit.

Also, you fail to take that there are indeed examples of stupid shit being said.

I'm sorry in your world that a disagreement can't be labeled as anything more than a disagreement. When stupid shit is said, it is stupid shit, and can be called out as such.

Just like if I strolled into the PS3 forum and said OMFG SORNY SUCKS TEH BIG 1.

That's not an opinion. That's stupid shit.

[Derrick1979]

Like I said anything anyone says negative your attacking it... in typical fanboy manor....


The Wii just like any other system is love or hate. all I have right now is my old Trusty PS2, I had a Wii and a 360 and got rid of them both seeing the lack there of games I like...

Seeing this topic is about Nintendo the focus is the Wii well thats where the comments are directed..

Sure the Wii has its "Big" titles...

Resident Evil 4
Metroid
Zelda
Paper Mario

then it has lots of mini game type games....
also it has lots of remakes of DS games....

Now from me and maybe others people are only going to buy games they like not on name alone...

I personally dont see the warrant of buying RE4 for the 3rd time
Never like the FP metroids games I say bring back the old way and remake or make a 2nd Super Metroid...
Zelda was over hyped and yes I had it for the Wii and beat it...
And to me Paper Mario was not to interesting...

The other games on the system really had no curb appeal to me and future games the only ones I would play would be Fire Emblem and maybe FF Crystal Chronicles... after that besides the big mainstream titles Galaxy,SSBB which im not interested in what is comming?

Battalion Wars 2 (did not like the First one)
Dragon Quest Swords ( on rails action RPG to have you flaring your arms around like and idiot for a set amount of time)
Guitar Hero III ( can get it on any other system)

Really besides the Wii-fit and all the other mini games games and more DS ports what solid huge titles are going to carry the system threw the next holiday season?

to me they just don't have the wow games that make you want to run a get it sure I bought it because I figured it looked neat with the controller and soon found out I did not like it.. My opinion and every right to it.

I purchased a PS2 the following summer of the launch and never have been unsatisfied yet because of the type of games they have..

Again my choice.... And it was not Metal Gear solid 2 or even GTA III that made me run to get one it was them putting a release date on FFX lol...

to each his own but for someone to bash everyone for everything negative they say about the system is wrong.

[MisterHand]

Like I said anything anyone says negative your attacking it... in typical fanboy manor....Fanboy Manor? I believe that's just down the street from the Hater Estate.

[Derrick1979]

Fanboy Manor? I believe that's just down the street from the Hater Estate.


I have every right to hate on it if I feel that way since I was an owner and there fore I have a hands on account I can base my feelings off of... As far as the 360 well there were a few games I liked on it but for the most part they were old stale ideas with glossy paint on them lol... oh and mine got the ring of death 7 months after buying so there fore I got my new one and sold it I was done with Xbox after that....

[Strell]

Part of your post is good discussion, and part of it is retarded.

To think Nintendo has nothing to release on the system next year is ludicrous. People continue to be unable to wrap their heads around the fact that E3 was meant to show off 1) new things such as Wiifit, and 2) games that are releasing this year. Using this as a basis to speculate "there's nothing left after 2007" is non sequiter nonsense at best. So stop making these retarded projections. That's like saying "there's nothing past Halo 3."

Also, do you really and honestly still fall into the "flail your arms around like an idiot" camp? Good god. Let's bring up the "OMFG I'M GOING TO GET TIRED" argument some more. And while we're on this whirlwind magical mystery tour of the past, let's also talk about other tired, ancient things that were hip in their heydey. Let's listen to New Kids on the Block and cozy around the TV for another episode of Saved by the Bell. Shit.

Finally, I really wish people would stop this crap about how the entire system and all those who enjoy it are somehow doing their gaming wrong just because the poster in question doesn't like the games on the Wii. I don't care for the games on the PS3 or the 360, but I don't act like I can't understand why anyone would bother with them. That's another difference between discussion and stupid shit, please see previous post (above, right up there, has "Strell" written next to it).

So stop with your bullshit about how me calling people out on their bullshit is somehow fanboy frenzy, fervor, and fanaticism. I'm sick of having to talk to idiots who just can't come up with any kind of valid or good argument, and then fall back "yur a fanboy" as if that were something intelligent to say.

Retreat back to some other board full of like minded mouth breathers like yourself, and talk amongst yourselves about how you all get it and everyone else who doesn't is a moron. Because that is the definition of a fanboy.

Me being smarter than you is not, and it's pathetic that you think so.

And for god's sake, I took Philosophy 101 too, ok? I did it years ago. And I found the whole "an opinion is never wrong!" justification to be the worst bullshit I've ever heard. The fact that this is perpetuated on the 'net like a goddamn trophy and the banner truth is both sad and hilarious. It's the absolute weakest "reasoning" anyone can employ. So the fact that your posts are rife with it are easy indicators that you don't know shit.

[MisterHand]

I have every right to hate on it if I feel that way since I was an owner and there fore I have a hands on account I can base my feelings off of... As far as the 360 well there were a few games I liked on it but for the most part they were old stale ideas with glossy paint on them lol... oh and mine got the ring of death 7 months after buying so there fore I got my new one and sold it I was done with Xbox after that....It was a spelling joke.

[mykevermin]

'the fuck?

[Derrick1979]

It was a spelling joke.

LOL I know I was mainly responding to the other guy...


Wow I think a whole new catagory in the line-up that Nintendo should tap into would be all Strell's alone " Angry Gamer"

Ease off the juice my friend and go get some fresh air... ;)

[kPod]

My opinion is this. I'm gonna say it and then watch the responses.

Ninty is looking out for Ninty. Not in the sense of wanting to make more cash, but to make sure that they aren't stuck with thousands upon thousands of consoles not selling. For example; in Europe, I think there's about seven games that are really worth getting. Unless you don't have a DS or a GC, you can pretty much play everything that's good on the Wii on other consoles, albeit (some would say) lesser versions.

And for those that think Nintendo can ramp production up to ungodly levels; they had to stop production of the DSes in order to manufacture enough Pokemon DPs to meet demand. The Wii is an ongoing thing, and I doubt they are going to ramp up production like crazy until they have more than one system-selling game.

I for one, would NOT pay £210 for a Wii, Wii sports and Metroid Prime: Corruption. A lot of people want Wiis for the sake of trying out the controls; that's all. Parents are thinking that this is the bridge between non-gamers (ie them) and gamers (ie the kids). The parents might like it, but I doubt a non-Ninty/Metroid/anygame fan is willing to get armache when they can just buttonbash.

At least, that's the UKs POV. The 360 rules over here.

[dmaul1114]

L
Really besides the Wii-fit and all the other mini games games and more DS ports what solid huge titles are going to carry the system threw the next holiday season?


I agree with most of your post (other than the arm waving bit) aside from this. You don't even mention Mario Galaxy and Super Smash Bros Melee which will be huge sellers and both are looking like top notch games.

Mario Kart is coming next year. And others have said, we can be pretty sure they have more up their sleeve that they just have decided not to show at E3 or anywhere else this year.

They can't keep consoles on shelves as is, and it will get worse with the holidays and Mario/Smash Bros. They don't need any more hype right now.

In early 2008, when sales are finally slowing down, then we'll see some big new announcements.

Or at least I would be shocked if we don't (and would probably get rid of the Wii at that point).

[FriskyTanuki]

The PS2 came out in the fall. GT3 was the first game worth playing IMO (didn't care for Tekken Tag and the other launch crap) and the first AAA game on the system. It came out nearly 6 months after launch. The rest of that year was pretty slow as well.
How is GTAIII, FFX, MGS2, plus a slew of other big games a slow half of the year. GT3 kicked off that great second half lineup of 2001 that just cemented their big lead when the Xbox and GC launched. I'm not sure exactly where people heard that MGS2 was the lone savior of the PS2's first year lineup.

The launch was fine with Madden, Ridge Racer, SSX, Tekken TT, DOA 2, Timesplitters, Smuggler's Run, and Midnight Club. It's too bad GT 2000 wasn't there to blow everybody out of the water right off the bat, but GT3 was well worth the delays.

[dmaul1114]

I was thinking GTA 3 (which I hated) and FFX came out in spring 2002 for some reason. So fair point.

Have to agree to disaggree on the Launch lineup. Personally, not a single game I enjoyed there. And from a sales standpoint, even the well reviewed/liked stuff like SSX, that just wasn't my cup of tea, was hardly system seller material.

[ITDEFX]

Does anyone remember the last generation having problems like this? The Wii is the least powerful of the 3 systems of this generation and it shouldn't take that long to manufacture. I really think Nintendo has PLENTY of systems but releasing just enough so people can play highly anticipated titles when they arrive. They are also giving stores the choice of forcing customers to buy it in a bundle pack/extended warranty just to get the damn system. I bet you a week or two BEFORE the new SSB comes out, the Wii will be listed in the papers.

Damn...if only some one would do something sneaky and post some sort of internal memo from BB or Nintendo saying "DO NOT SELL YOUR WII STOCK UNTIL such and such date!"

Now to be honest, I could understand if some sort of war broke out in Pacific with North Korean causing the trouble because that would cause a major disruption of the manufacturing system that goes on in China, Japan and so on. It would not only affect all current generation systems, but anything else made in those countries. Do you really think Japan would have the time and resources to make video game parts for us if they are engaged in a war?

[rodeojones903]

Damn...if only some one would do something sneaky and post some sort of internal memo from BB or Nintendo saying "DO NOT SELL YOUR WII STOCK UNTIL such and such date!"




That happens everytime it goes into a weekly ad. Get the systems in on a Wed. and hold for Sun.

[ITDEFX]

That happens everytime it goes into a weekly ad. Get the systems in on a Wed. and hold for Sun.


but why do that?

sometimes they will release the Wii during times that nothing good comes out. It should be sold as soon as it comes off the truck and processed in the system. Sad to see that you can find tons of PS3, 360's, DS' and PSP's but it's hard to find a Wii. That's sad for all those kids who want a Wii.

And NO, my 5 year old nephew is NOT going to find out about my new Wii...shit after he sees the interactivity level of this system, he's gonna stop playing the gamecube I got him last month and want this and NO WAY IN HELL I AM GOING TO WAIT IN LINE FOR THAT!

[botticus]

but why do that?

sometimes they will release the Wii during times that nothing good comes out. It should be sold as soon as it comes off the truck and processed in the system. Sad to see that you can find tons of PS3, 360's, DS' and PSP's but it's hard to find a Wii. That's sad for all those kids who want a Wii.

And NO, my 5 year old nephew is NOT going to find out about my new Wii...shit after he sees the interactivity level of this system, he's gonna stop playing the gamecube I got him last month and want this and NO WAY IN HELL I AM GOING TO WAIT IN LINE FOR THAT!They hold them so they can advertise them. If they sell them as soon as they come off the truck, they can't put them in the Sunday ad and say "minimum X per store" and get a bunch of people to make an extra trip to the store.

[drfunk85]

but why do that?

sometimes they will release the Wii during times that nothing good comes out. It should be sold as soon as it comes off the truck and processed in the system. Sad to see that you can find tons of PS3, 360's, DS' and PSP's but it's hard to find a Wii. That's sad for all those kids who want a Wii.

And NO, my 5 year old nephew is NOT going to find out about my new Wii...shit after he sees the interactivity level of this system, he's gonna stop playing the gamecube I got him last month and want this and NO WAY IN HELL I AM GOING TO WAIT IN LINE FOR THAT!

Like botticus said, it's more BB corporate telling the stores not to sell them for a few days, not Nintendo telling BB corporate not to do it. The reason being that by advertising them, they get more people into the store and can sell more stuff. But for the most part, within a minimal amount of time, they are selling them as soon as they can get them. Since Best Buy or Company X wants to run an ad that is fairly national, they have to wait to get enough supplies to cover their stores. It's not like Nintendo is sending out 100 Wiis to a store, they are sending 100 Wiis to 1000 stores, and they just can't make 1000x100 Wiis at once, which is why it seems like they are saving them and releasing them at selected times. They sort of are, but it's not like they have some giant warehouse with 30 million Wiis sitting unused, or it's not like they could be making twice as many as they are now without substantially increasing costs. Nintendo is making as many as they can while still keeping costs low, and at the same point they are releasing them in bunches as soon as the bunches get up to the numbers they need.

Now, I imagine they will slowly be saving up stock so that they have quite a few Wiis hit stores when Mario hits and also 2 weeks later on Black Friday, but that isn't any more than BB saying "we want 100 Wiis per store this weekend so we can advertise" so Nintendo saves up 100 Wiis per BB and then ships them out, except now I bet BB will be saying "we want 500+ Wiis per store" as will CC, so yes it will seem like they are holding back stock, but it has just as much to do with the retail chains as it does with Nintendo.

[PhoenixT]

Funny stuff, as usual...

I have actually seen Wii's on the shelves several times in the past two weeks. They seem way more readily available then ever before. That's not to say they are shelf-sitting - they were gone from all those places shortly afterwards, but I was seeing them at stores in the evening that usually get morning shipments. I suspect this is the brief interlude before holiday sales ramp up, though, and this is as easy as it will get.

And anyone who says the Wii has no games and hasn't played Metroid Prime 3 (especially if they are a 360 fan and like all the generic shooters over there) is full of it... Yeah, sure, the Wii is not chock full of AAA titles, but it will get there (along with tons of crap ala the PS2 last gen - the "curse" of being the most popular system I suppose).
I"m going to wait till I"m a little farther in to fully argue this point with you IO but atm from just playing the first opening stage in Metroid 3 its more like a platformer thrown into 3d than an actual shooter. You may like that but the things I look for in a shooter is monsters that do a bit more than run around in a circle shooting me while I chase them. Halo 3 has an AI for different types of monsters they react and fight differently they jump in turrents use vehicles use cover etc. Bioshock is fairly unique in its storyline aspects and the enemies in it are intelligent enough to use cover, roll out of the way and use security bots to their advantage.

I'm not saying 360 dosen't have its share of generic shooters but Metroid hasn't impressed me that much with its gameplay yet and it "has" to win in gameplay since its not the graphical powerhouse the other games are. By the way can you tighten up the aiming later on because its far to floaty for me atm.

[daroga]

I"m going to wait till I"m a little farther in to fully argue this point with you IO but atm from just playing the first opening stage in Metroid 3 its more like a platformer thrown into 3d than an actual shooter. You may like that but the things I look for in a shooter is monsters that do a bit more than run around in a circle shooting me while I chase them. Halo 3 has an AI for different types of monsters they react and fight differently they jump in turrents use vehicles use cover etc. Bioshock is fairly unique in its storyline aspects and the enemies in it are intelligent enough to use cover, roll out of the way and use security bots to their advantage.

I'm not saying 360 dosen't have its share of generic shooters but Metroid hasn't impressed me that much with its gameplay yet and it "has" to win in gameplay since its not the graphical powerhouse the other games are. By the way can you tighten up the aiming later on because its far to floaty for me atm.Put the contol sensitivity on Advanced.

And Metroid won't feel like a shooter because it's not. It's an adventure game where you shoot things.

[dmaul1114]

Yeah, if you want a traditional shooter like Halo, you're not going to like Metroid. A daroga said, it's an adventure game where you happen to shoot stuff. There's a reason Nintendo always called in an FPA game rather than FPS.

There's much more emphasis on exploration than shooting (even though there's more shooting here than in the first two), and the enemy AI is pathetically stupid in these games compared to something like Halo. Increasing the difficulty doesn't help either, as that just makes your shots do less damage and theres do more damage to you.

[PhoenixT]

no I understand that I've played the metroid franchise for some time now fact is IO was alluding to that if you liked the 360's FPS games then you'd like metroid. Thats not necessarily the case. If your really a FPS player your looking for a challanging AI , vehicles expansive and well balanced weaponry. Metroid is something different it always has been doesn't mean its not enjoyable its just not what he's alluding to. I think I'll still like the game and have more fun with it than the orignal Metroid Prime that I played given the more refined control. The first one turned me off toward the end since the bosses got ridiculously complicated to even do damage to IMO. Ok this time you need to knock off 10 pieces of armor while being pounded by guys who can only be hit with a certain beam and randomly switch visors till you can see the guy and hit him with a super rocket before he regains his armor, gee...is that all ..-_-.

Back on topic I can see keeping their supply as it is it keeps them from overmanufactoring and keeps demand up which is what you want. Half the reason this system sells is its cost and accessability to its audience(play wise) the other half is its rarity. Something thats hard to find is commonly in higher demand since it becomes a status symbol of sorts.

[dmaul1114]

I that case, I'd agree with you. People that are huge fans of Halo etc. aren't necessarily going to like Metroid Prime 3. Especially if they go in wanting a similar type of game.

[johnnypark]

Oh well, if they do sell out, you can always get a Vii (http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/02/wii-is-dead-long-live-vii/).

[io]

no I understand that I've played the metroid franchise for some time now fact is IO was alluding to that if you liked the 360's FPS games then you'd like metroid. Thats not necessarily the case. If your really a FPS player your looking for a challanging AI , vehicles expansive and well balanced weaponry. Metroid is something different it always has been doesn't mean its not enjoyable its just not what he's alluding to. I think I'll still like the game and have more fun with it than the orignal Metroid Prime that I played given the more refined control. The first one turned me off toward the end since the bosses got ridiculously complicated to even do damage to IMO. Ok this time you need to knock off 10 pieces of armor while being pounded by guys who can only be hit with a certain beam and randomly switch visors till you can see the guy and hit him with a super rocket before he regains his armor, gee...is that all ..-_-.


Phoenix - No, Metroid Prime 3 is not a traditional FPS and I'm very glad it's not or I probably wouldn't like it. The boss fights and shooting parts were my least favorite parts of the game. I much prefer the exploring and puzzle solving. I wasn't saying it compared to Halo. I was saying if you like all the generic shooters on the 360 (that would be the 100 lesser shooters than Halo that dominate the 360 lineup) then Metroid at least holds its own compared to most of those (of course, I think the exploration/atmosphere makes it stand well above those). You took the 2 VERY BEST ones (Halo and Bioshock) and said Metroid doesn't compare. Well, I didn't say it did (though I haven't played either of those).

Personally I'm not interested in them, except for possibly Bioshock when I can get it dirt cheap.

It was simply a throwaway reference to the "no games" argument we hear incessantly on CAG. The Wii has a solid, AAA title in Metroid even if it isn't your personal preference (in addition to the AAA Zelda and several others that are very good if not AAA). I'd only play Halo 3 if it was given to me for free. Yet I don't go around denying that the 360 has any top-flight games for it as a result (though I would say it's lineup is somewhat sparse IF you don't like shooters, racers, or sports sims).

If you want to debate the shortcomings of Metroid Prime 3 there is a whole thread dedicated to that in the Wii forum ;).

[willardhaven]

The Wii completely surprised me with its popularity.

The most surprising thing about it is that people don't know a thing about it before they buy it. I work at the local Worst Buy and people say: "you have any Wiis in stock? I'll take one, what does it do?"

It really strikes me as following the iPod's category of cultural trend rather than product that people see as an adequate entertainment solution.

[unforeseen]

Fatwallet members are ready to jump at this "hording" opportunity. What else is new.

Wondering how much they would go for anyway?

[SaraAB]

I just saw some more Wii's at target on Tuesday night, but people were snapping them up very fast, they were probably gone by the time I got out of the store. This is the second time I have seen them in stock since launch.

This going to be the hottest holiday gift no doubt, and ebay prices will be sky high for it before christmas since probably 50-70% of the Wii's on store shelves will go into the hands of ebayers or resellers looking to profit.

[Chitown021]

Maybe they're waiting on the special chips, just like they did for Zelda II.

LOL. That comment made me have flashbacks of when I was 12. I could not wait for that game to come out and couldn't understand why they were having problems getting the chips they needed.


This past week I went to Target mid day after a doctor's appointment to fill a perscription before I went to work. They had about 12 Wiis in the glass case. I was shocked as I've only seen Wiis in the wild once or twice since launch. This was Friday morning. I had to go back this afternoon and some lady was buying the last 2. It's just amazing those puppies are still flying off the shelves like that.

[Reality's Fringe]

Maybe they can meet demand by taking out the backwards compatibility. I hear that's all the rage these days.