It's pretty much clear among all Nintendo NES Classic fans that the chances of acquiring 2016's most coveted gaming gadget are next to impossible. It's already 2017 and many are still hoping that they could get their hands on their very first NES Mini. Acquiring the console is like gambling with bad odds. So starting this year, why not just move on, live life and forget the retro gaming console?
NES Mini Craze already declining
The craze over the NES Mini was phenomenal. Featuring 30 of Nintendo's most popular retro games, the console swooped and was sold out in a flash at local toy stores and at online platforms. Just within minutes after its official launch last November 11, the NES Classic were literally wiped out from every shelf.
The high demands of the NES
This high demand resulted in low inventory and no inventory at all. Retailers such as Amazon, Target, Toys R Us, and BestBuy had occasional new shipments here and there but they, too, were gone as soon as they hit the store shelves. Meijer was the last retailer to restock the Mini NES in late December.
Benefits of the NES Mini shortage
Many enterprising souls online have benefited from the low supply of the Nintendo NES Classic. Hoarders at eBay sold the console as high as $20,000. Desperate individuals have reportedly paid hundreds to thousands just to have the prized toy, which was originally priced at $60.
Nintendo's strategy
The NES Classic Edition shortage could have been avoided by Nintendo had they released more stocks. However, the Japanese gaming company actually did it on purpose as a marketing ploy. Shortage of stock has furthered consumers' interest in the product.
But as of the moment, many who were left empty-handed and are still searching for the toy everywhere.
Nintendo intentionally constrained supply in order to create an illusion that the NES Classic is a one coveted toy. The company succeeded at the expense of thousands of potential buyers.
But enough is enough. Nintendo has already lost so many customers by employing the said sales tactics that only benefited the company.
