Back when the Wii was just codenamed the Revolution there was lots of speculation about the low price of the new system. IGN (1)(2) considered around $200 and even sub-$200 launch prices! Infact just a month before the US price was officially announced there was speculation and rumors of a price around $170.
Personally I remember being slightly disappointed before launch when $250 was confirmed after such speculation. I thought it would hurt Nintendo as a lower price like $200 would mean more mass market appeal.
MAN I WAS AN IDIOT!
If the Wii was released at $200 that adds up to almost half a billion in lost revenue in North America alone! A lower price wouldn't have increased sales considering the supply situation. It would have just left a lot of money on the table.
