North American 3rd Party Wii sales.

[steven787]

@NightKnight:

What's funny is % PS3 actually has the best third party sales for the week, but % is an insignificant stat when talking sales (like attach rates) because what matters to a third party is the bottom line for each game.

My evolving opinion

So you have three very viable platforms for third parties.
1. X360 is good because of sheer numbers
2. Wii is good because of decent numbers + loweer development costs.
3. PS3 is good because there seems to be very little consumer loyalty to sony for software, for third parties this leaves more room for there games.

What disappoints developers about Wii is the first week sales, it is unfortunate that developers and executives are short sighted and comment on a games sales early in its life.

Companies used to keep their mouths shut, because "loose lips, sink ships."

What does it do for a potential consumer to hear (1) negatived things about the console they own? (2) What does a less informed gamer think when they read from a company that the sales aren't good?

Answers:
(1) It makes them feel like they are being talked down to. They bought the wrong system, they have bad tastes in games, etc.
(2) It makes them think that the game is not good. If a game isn't selling well, they are going to think it is because the game isn't good.

Execs have to stop giving interviews like they are on a reality show and realize their job is to represent the interest of their shareholders.

examples
Q"How are sales?"
A"Good, the word is spreading. Consumers are telling one another about it, sales look to remain strong."

Q"Sales for this game are below expectations, how has this affected your strategy?"
A"The quality of this game will is what is going to help it sell well over time, we think a conservative advertising campaign and focus on promoting existing products are what make quality titles remain in demand for the months and years to come."

Q"What do you think about developing for Console ABC?"
A"It is a very interesting console, and offers many opportunities for creativity. We are developing/investigating/holding back right now to utilize the features of the console for successful titles."

Starting to get the idea?

Interviews with executives, producers, and directors should be vague, positive, and boring when they dwell on the business side instead of development. It is their job to make the products appealing and get consumers to like the company.