Now that both next gen systems have hit stores, sucking hard-earned cash out of gamer wallets, let's take a look at the very different console launches.
The PS3, with its cell processor and Blu-Ray, was created and marketed for the hardcore gamer. Gamers who flocked to the release of the $600 system were a bit more tenacious than retailers expected; stabbings, shootings, robberies and mini-riots plagued campout lines. Not exactly the welcome Sony expected. Most of those waiting in line were planning to sell the system on
eBay for a quick buck; some sold as high as $2500, they're now selling for more reasonable $1200 on the auction site. Still a tidy profit (if you don't mind standing in the rain for three days).
Conversely, the Wii launch was a well-oiled machine. Most who
waited in lines were guaranteed a Wii for $250, with chances of bodily harm remaining slim. A virtual love fest. In order to choose console recipients, raffle tickets were handed out to people in line, instead of the lunatic PS3 race for chairs that caused one gamer to receive a dislocated jaw -- the guy hung in there and got a PS3. Seriously dude, that's hardcore.
An unscientific poll of gamers (friends) and non-gamers (the rest of the TMZ staff) has the Wii on top, citing the wireless remote and lower cost as main factors.
If you're jonesing for a Wii, you might want to get your act together. Nintendo is urging gamers not to become complacent in their console purchasing plans.
The gaming company is shipping four million consoles to the Americas during the six weeks between
Wii's November 19th launch and the end of 2006. Judging by the buzz surrounding the Wii's launch, it might not be enough. If you haven't secured a pre-order of the console by now, you may want to break out the steel-toed boots and helmet for launch day.
Even with warnings about shortages and console related eye-gouging, Nintendo is launching the Wii in style with two official Nintendo launch parties. Toys "R" Us in Manhattan's Times Square will cover the East coast, while GameStop at Universal City Walk in Los Angeles will keep the left coast happy. The events will feature live music, games and special guests from Nintendo. We're hoping it's Mario because we all know what a downer Luigi is at parties.
With gamers salivating over its release, and up to 65 games available for the system before year's end, it looks like it's gonna be a very happy holiday at Nintendo HQ.
While Sony and Microsoft continue to battle each other for the hearts and wallets of hard-core video gamers everywhere, the people behind the world's most famous koopa-killing plumbers are about to virtually flush the two powerhouses with a revolutionary new console.
The good folks at Nintendo hope to reshape home entertainment and video gaming alike with the "
Wii" (pronounced: "we").
