After Literal Years, Nintendo Wii Shortage Ends

I saw at least three fist fights over Nintendo Wiis during the last Christmas shopping season. A simple byproduct of the implacable economic law of video game supply and demand--when a console is in short supply, demand rises to the point that otherwise calm, rational people resort to cheap shots and dirty fighting to get ahold of said console. After the Wii's release in late '06, we can finally state that the Wii drought has come to an end.



After the Christmas rush slowed down, Wii sales levelled off in the States. Abroad Wii sales are down too. Gamasutra spoke to Gamestop and learned that they "finally have enough [Wiis] on the shelf." A two week supply, no less.

So, how did Nintendo finally get on top of the seemingly infinite thirst for simulated bowling and exercise? We can't say for sure, but one possibility is that Wii sales are actually in decline. Reasons? Market saturation comes to mind, there are currently 16.2 million units in the United States (compared to 12.8 million Xbox 360s and 6.3 million PlayStation 3s). How many households don't already have a Nintendo Wii?
Another factor might concern the fact that the Wii doesn't have any ridiculously hyped present or future titles vis-a-vis Sony and Microsoft's consoles. This is certain to be a factor when the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 both have current and future titles unavailable on the Wii. The general slowdown in all things video game is probably the primary factor, however.

Ultimately, what this means for we gamers though, is that we can finally get a hold of a Nintendo Wii without having to joust, duel and street fight other would-be customers. Various regions in the United States are however, still experiencing rolling shortages of Wii Fit, so call before you head to the local video game store.

For reviews on the latest Wii games, check out our video game site. We have console reviews too. Otherwise, treat yourself to some more gamer-friendly blog posts:

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