Ninetendo's upcoming video game console, the Wii U is getting set to release in North America in just four days and will be the first Nintendo console to support true high-definition graphics.
The console will be released in two versions: a "Basic" white-colored version with 8 GB of internal Flash storage for $299.99 and a Deluxe black-colored version with 32 GB of Flash storage, which includes stand and docks for $349.99. But Ubisoft chairman and CEO Yves Guillemot is not happy with Wii U's price.
"I always prefer lower pricing, so I can't say I'm happy," Guillemot told GamesIndustry International. "I'm never happy when the machines are expensive. What we have to do there is remember that compared to an iPad, it's cheap. With what it brings [to the gaming table] it's cheap. But I hope they'll be able to drop their price in time."
Guillemot also said in the interview that although gamers are still playing current generation systems, they need something new and interesting.
"I think this audience is actually still playing a few times per week, but they need something new," Guillemot told GamesIndustry International. "And the [Wii U] GamePad is interesting; it's interesting because it's a touchscreen that people know how to deal with. This GamePad can be as revolutionary as the Wiimote, just because people are used to dealing with it."
The system appears to be selling well at its current price, as most retailers no longer have the system available for online purchase. Time Magazine has reported that both Kmart and Target list both versions of the system online but do not provide a way to purchase the system. According to the article Best Buy list the system as sold out and Walmart will only have the system available in-stores for its launch.
GameStop is also sold out and has created a waiting list exclusively for members of its PowerUp Rewards loyalty program that are interested in purchasing the new video game console.
A quick search for the system on Amazon.com results in over priced Wii Us being sold by members. Some of the second-hand Wii U systems are going for as much as $800 and as low as $510 that is $210 more than the system's lowest SKU.
The system is scheduled for release on Sunday Nov. 18 in North America, Nov. 30, in Europe and Australia, and Dec. 8 in Japan.