After Microsoft’s Xbox 360 and three months before Sony’s PS3, Nintendo released its new gem on Friday, December 8. The Wii operates with a controller and allows you to physically recreate the movements performed by the character you are controlling. This is a first after the Eye-Toy that accompanied Sony’s PlayStation 2 but worked only for “mini-games.” In the case of the Japanese manufacturer, full games like “Zelda” are adapted to this new form of controller manipulation. For this unique occasion, the FNAC in Nice opened its doors exclusively for the console purchase from 8 am, with breakfast being offered.
About fifty people, “a good result” according to the director, were waiting in the rain to be among the first to buy the Wii. Some had already reserved it for several months, while others came to scout and might purchase it. “I find it original in terms of the controllers,” said one of these gaming enthusiasts, adding that “the wide range of game choices, especially Zelda” attracted him.
As everyone rushed toward the accessories and then to the registers where the famous console was located, a few took advantage of the opportunity to try it on the giant screen prominently displayed at the store’s entrance. A move to the left, one to the right, the young man seemed impressed. He lingered for a while to play, while others chose not to disturb him.
The director, Olivier Houzard, believes “it’s important to mark an event by opening so early […] to position ourselves against the competition. This group talks among themselves, they all communicate. So it’s important to be present for such an event,” he explained.
The giant Panasonic screen, present at FNAC that week, offers a great opportunity to ensure maximum enjoyment for players, even though the director assures “not having associated the two events simultaneously on purpose.” The micro-computing manager, Alain Rastoul, explains what this early opening represents: “FNAC positions itself relative to its competitors, allowing gamers who have reserved the console to start playing at 8 am. Additionally, it’s pleasing for the store to do something extraordinary by taking advantage of the world’s largest TV.”
While Microsoft’s new machine has been in homes for a few months already, and Sony’s future console still waits for another 3 months, one could wonder if we will see the same protocol at FNAC for the launch of the Japanese giant’s console.
“This release and opening at 8 am is a preview of the PS3 in March 2007, whose arrival will shake the market. Indeed, today, one out of two consoles sold is a PlayStation, so one out of two consumers worldwide is in a waiting position. Hence the large public’s apprehension.” So what might motivate people to buy the Wii rather than the PS3, then? “The main advantage is the way of playing, with a real game console that appeals to all ages,” the Micro-Computing manager eagerly explained.
We can bet it will be a success as people are already vying for it.
The Wii is on sale for €249.
Warning: Be careful with the controller straps, as they tend to break when used too violently. Make inquiries at the stores as Nintendo has just announced the recall and exchange of over 3 million straps.
