Just an excerpt from my unintelligible rant posted on Gamespot:
Firstly, don't feel bad for the EB/GS employees. They'll most likely get their systems. (we were supposed to give up our 360's, but were instead given them and told to keep quiet)
Secondly, this is nothing new. EB/GS dropped the ball on their 360 shipments as well. Combine that with their botched Gears of War release, ever declining trade-in values, and their corporate focus on operations (i.e. treating the customer as secondary) and they're really doing the consumer a disservice. I worked as an ASM for EB Games for five years and have recently left for Best Buy. Why? Because I couldn't stand disappointing the customer any more. I made a lot of friends through great customer service, something that ended very abruptly when Gamestop took over.
The worst part about this slash in allotment? I can almost guarantee that it won't be as simple as the earliest pre-orders get their systems first. As a standard, the company often fills the orders that have the most money down and the most games/accessories ordered first. (full-pays are given preference...so if you have the money now I suggest paying it off ahead of time) Also, friends of management and regulars often receive preference and privilage above the walk-in customers. This is something that I fought my entire stint at EB and it only got worse when GS took over. As someone who prides myself on honesty and integrity, I can honestly say that Gamestop has little of both. Sure, Best Buy's tendency to profile customers is a bit frustrating sometimes, but at least they put said customers FIRST and make sure that issues of this nature are handled fairly. (us employees were told that if we want a PS3 or a Wii we would have to camp in line like everyone else)
P.S. Long time lurker of CAG. You guys are alright.
Oh, a quick edit. I was offered a PS3 by my previous employer BEFORE they actually went up for pre-sale. My former manager called me (I had already left for Best Buy) and asked me if I would like one. My reply was to the effect of "now that's not very fair, is it?" And, to be honest, I really don't want one anyway. I'm planning on camping if I can find a spot after work on Thursday for the sole purpose of giving it to a friend.