Wii hunt

I want a Wii! But the problem is that they are impossible to find. Online you may find one, but the you'll have to pay almost double the suggested retail price. In stores the shipments are sold within moments after they arrive. I don't understand why Nintendo can't supply enough Wii consoles so everyone who wants one for Christmas can get one. (Though maybe I do understand, the short supply obviously helps the buzz and free publicity.)

Wiis are so popular in the U.S. that friends with Wiis are throwing Wii parties. Also, I heard a piece on the radio about how Nintendo is marketing the Wii to the elderly. Several retirement homes have received free Wiis and Wii bowling tournaments are popular there. A Nintendo rep will explain the game to the players. As a result, seniors aren't just buying the game console for their grandkids anymore, they also want it themselves. "Let's go play Wii at grandma's!"

Anyway, I asked for a Wii in Ecuador. They're sold out here as well. I was hoping that perhaps the electronics stores in Ecuador would have some in stock since a $300 holiday gift is a particularly expensive one here. No luck for me. After the holiday shopping craze I might be more lucky. (Too bad I can't buy one in Europe, since the electric and video systems are different. I understand there is no Wii madness there.)