With the Nintendo Wii U release date announced last week, Wii U pre-orders are now available to reserve online, with early reports indicating that the new Nintendo Wii U games console is proving popular.
With Nintendo Wii U pre-orders selling out in a number of online locations over the weekend, and Wii U launch fever has spread worldwide after the Wii U release date was announced.
High Demand and Limited Availability
Best Buy, Toys R Us, and Target have all announced on their online stores that they have already sold out of both Nintendo Wii U versions. Also, Sears and Kmart are also suffering similar shortages of both Nintendo Wii U Basic and Deluxe versions of the games console. This high demand is reminiscent of the original Wii launch, where the console was notoriously difficult to find for months after its release. The Wii U’s innovative features, such as the GamePad controller with its built-in touchscreen, have generated significant interest among gamers and tech enthusiasts alike.
Gamestop has already sold out of Nintendo Wii U pre-orders for the 32GB, black Deluxe bundle, however, the 8GB, white Basic bundle is still available for pre-order from the online store. The Deluxe bundle includes additional accessories and games, making it a more attractive option for many consumers. The Basic bundle, while still offering the core Wii U experience, lacks some of the extras that come with the Deluxe version.
What Makes the Wii U Stand Out?
The Nintendo Wii U is not just another gaming console; it represents a significant leap in gaming technology and user experience. One of the standout features is the GamePad, which offers a second screen that can be used for various purposes, such as displaying maps, inventory, or even allowing for asymmetrical gameplay where one player uses the GamePad while others use traditional controllers. This opens up new possibilities for game design and player interaction.
Another key feature is the Wii U’s backward compatibility with Wii games and accessories. This means that existing Wii owners can upgrade to the Wii U without losing access to their favorite games and peripherals. Additionally, the Wii U supports HD graphics, a first for Nintendo consoles, bringing it in line with competitors like the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.
The Wii U also aims to be a comprehensive entertainment hub. It includes streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Video, making it a versatile device for both gaming and media consumption. The console’s Miiverse social network allows players to connect, share experiences, and even get help from other gamers, adding a social dimension to the gaming experience.
Future Prospects and Market Impact
The strong pre-order numbers and rapid sell-outs suggest that the Wii U could have a significant impact on the gaming market. Analysts are already predicting that the Wii U could replicate the success of the original Wii, which sold over 100 million units worldwide. However, the gaming landscape has changed since the Wii’s release, with increased competition from mobile gaming and other consoles.
Nintendo’s strategy of offering unique gameplay experiences and family-friendly content could help the Wii U carve out its niche in the market. The success of the Wii U will also depend on the quality and variety of games available for the platform. Early titles like “New Super Mario Bros. U” and “ZombiU” have generated excitement, but sustained success will require a steady stream of high-quality releases.
The Nintendo Wii U is off to a strong start with high demand and limited availability driving pre-orders. Its innovative features and potential as an entertainment hub make it a compelling option for gamers and families alike. As the release date approaches, it will be interesting to see how the market responds and whether the Wii U can live up to the high expectations set by its predecessor.
Source: Joystiq
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