Preordering: The Pitfalls

Stores across the globe are about to make a killing of a profit as the Wii and Playstation 3 launch. When it comes to a console launch, preordering isn't foolproof. Here's some guidelines on what to avoid and what to watch out for to ensure you get your console at launch for the proper price.

[BIadestarX]

"Stores across the globe are about to make a killing of a profit as the Wii and Playstation 3 launch" That may be true only they can cover the demands. I can tell you that the 360 will sell more units, simply because they are ready to supply the demands. The wii and PS3 will most likely better numbers next year. Unless they have lots of consoles that we don't know about (Nintendo may).

[AP]

I know. It actually tackles the demand issue a bit in the article, mainly focusing on how hard it might be to get one and how to ensure you do. The Wii has a million for the US which isn't bad at all.

[Karibu]

Is that guy relative of Bill Gates?? They are so lookalike... or Xbox gradually consumes you to look Bill Gates =/

[THELANDSOFSAND]

start camping now!

[OutLaw]

If anybody is going to the midnight launch then make sure you have somebody with you, especially for the PS3. With such a shortage with the PS3 a lot of desperate criminals will be lurking around that corner. So for the few who does go and pick up a system at midnight just stay safe and be aware of your surroundings. I usually get my systems at midnight but for the PS3 I'm going to pass on it and for the Wii if I can order it online I will. But if I can't I'm going to go to Gamestop and do the midnight thing.

[Ravenator529]

There are a lot of people who buy these systems just to make a huge profit off of them. They wouldn't think twice about robbing someone to get what they want.

I just saw on the news that some guy was supposedly held at gunpoint for one of the new Elmo dolls!

IMO if the store wants to have a midnight launch or let people stay outside overnight, there should be either hired security on hand or police.

I could see theft as being a reality!

[ChickeyCantor]

for a second there........i though that was a tingle wannabe in the picture holding the 360( in the thumb view)

[WhEeLz]

thats why im going with my buddy on my hip.... ;)

[Jaireme1]

Do you guys think standing outside of Bestbuy from 12pm on Thursday the 16th till 12am on Friday the 17th (midnight launch)will be enough time to secure a PS3? I hope to many people arent like me and took Friday off. If there are to many people outside at the midnight launch then I am going to the Bestbuy that opens at 9am. Dont think to many people will be still outside for 16+hours to spend $600 I hope. Anybody have there two cents to add? BTW Park your car close to the entrance if your at the midnight launch. Plus have a cell phone/stungun/pistol look alike/stingray lol/ you get the idea...handy

[Covenant]

...then you probably won't get one. Despite the $600 price tag (before games and accessories), there will be many people wanting to buy one--Playstation fans, early adopters, parents buying for the kids, and the inevitable eBay re-sellers. Trust me--I've been a games retailer for four years, and I foresee less than 10-15 units for even the biggest stores (large Wal-Marts and Best Buys). I have a friend who works for Gamestop, and his DM has already warned the area stores to expect less than 5-10 per store, maximum. The Wii will be a little easier to get, with around 25-40 units per large store (estimates based on what I know about game system allocations). I may be wrong about those numbers, but I guarantee you this: If you want a system at launch, better get in line early. And the writer is right--allocate extra cash for extended warranties and accessories (360 play and charge kits sold out almost instantly, and were in short supply for a while--same with wireless adapters). Just some friendly advice from someone who's been there.

[linkrocks7]

i really hope i get wii. anybody know if or when game stores will be taking preorders?

[ChickeyCantor]

they havt done that yet ??????
...........weird marketing you ppl have