The point of the amiibos aren't to directly sell a console, though that is the end result. They're essentially a huge marketing ploy that is designed to raise brand awareness. It's like how Mario was more recognizable to American children than Mickey Mouse at one point because Mario was everywhere. There was so much merchandising back then for Mario, it was absolutely crazy. The amiiibos are similar in that regard: heavy merchandising. By seeing the Nintendo brand in all of the toy stores, the aim would be to make kids and parents more aware of the Nintendo brand, and that would influence them to buy amiibos, Wii U's, and eventually 3DS's.
Nintendo just has to make sure that their brand is in all the major retailers, and then brand awareness should be driven through the roof. The consoles may not become the biggest thing since underwear but it'll definitely have a sizeable impact on sales.
NNID: TheCCluc
