Nintendo’s Wii U is off to an interesting start. It’s been on sale a few days now in the US (with the European and Japanese launches happening in the next few weeks), but some US retailers are already selling the Wii U’s launch games at a discounted price.
Talking to GamesIndustry.biz, Scott Steinberg of Techsavvy Global explained that the appearance of discounted games might have more to do with the competitive retail market than of the actual quality and desirability of Nintendo’s new machine.
“If they get you in the door to buy Wii U software at a discount, chances are you're going to do all your Wii U shopping at that specific retailer… given the increasing Black-Friday driven shopping culture, this is a tactic designed to ensure that the store in question is the primary shopping source for the Wii U.”
Some shops are selling Wii U games at 40% off when bought with another game and the console or deals of a similar nature.
But that’s not to say the appearance of discounted games at a launch of new hardware is usual, in fact, this is the first time it has ever happened and it gives the impression that the Wii U’s games a just worth less than those around it.
The Wii U has managed to sell out across America though with some units appearing on eBay. But the heady days of Wiis selling for $1,000 are far behind us and picking up a Wii U on the auction site will only set you back about $400 to $500.
With all the other problems facing the Wii U right now, it’s not the best start for Nintendo’s new console. Will things pick up over the next few months though before Microsoft and Sony reveal their next gen machines?
Bought a Wii U? Let us know what you think below.
