Nintendo got off to an impressive start with its Nov. 18 launch of the Wii U, selling 400,000 units in the first week. In fact, last week was monumental for Nintendo altogether—according to Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aiem, the gaming giant sold 1.2 million hardware units, including the Wii U, Wii, 3DS and DS. It could have sold more if supply of the Wii U consoles could have kept up with retailers’ and consumers’ demand for the product.

“Wii U is essentially sold out of retail and we are doing our best to continually replenish stock,” Fils-Aime told CNET. “Retailers are also doing their best to get the product to store shelves. But as soon as the product hits retail, they’re selling out immediately.”

Although the Wii U is in high demand, it has not outsold its predecessor, which sold 600,000 units in its first week in 2006. Fils-Aime says, however, Nintendo is delighted with the Wii U’s reception and plans to address shortages much more expediently than in 2006.

“Wii was a unique phenomenon. You couldn’t walk into a retailer and buy a Wii until spring of 2009,” he told CNET. “We’ve certainly learned many lessons from that and we are replenishing retailers more quickly this time around. We are looking to have as much product into retail as possible. It’s driven by consumer response.”

Samantha Lile

Samantha Lile is a 2002 Missouri State University graduate of journalism and mass media. She has served as a reporter and editor for various newspapers throughout her journalism career. She made the leap into writing full-time after working for a major financial institution since 2000.

Because of her banking background, Samantha is knowledgeable in finance reporting, but is also strong in commentaries, personal profiles, youth studies, horticulture, history and entertainment-related works.

Samantha lives in Ozark, Mo. with her husband of nine years, four dogs and two cats.

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