The first console of the “next-generation” is set to be the Wii U, but Nintendo fans are anxious to see when the system will release. While the console was on demo at E3 2012, the only hint at a release date has been “Holiday 2012”.
While there’s only speculation at this point, we believe that the Wii U will launch on November 18th of this year. Why? We’ve compiled our top three reasons as to why the Wii U will be available to consumers on that date below.
3. Early 2013 Game Releases
As Nintendo looks to be a serious competitor across all demographics in the gaming market, it’s important that they have a grasp on third-party titles. The beginning of 2013 will an incredible amount of big name releases, and Nintendo has to ensure they have consoles in homes before this point.
By releasing their console on November 18th, they allow their console to get an established hold in the market. They’ll then be able to have their consumers more likely to pre-order or purchase titles on the Wii U, then on an older system such as the Xbox 360 or Playstation 3.
2. Call of Duty: Black Ops 2
Disagree if you’d like, but Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 will sell an incredible amount of games. A leaked scan from a magazine a few weeks ago confirmed that Black Ops 2 would be launching on the Wii U. Black Ops 2 launches on November 13th, but Nintendo could hold fans over a few extra days by announcing their console will support the game.
Throw in the pro-style controller that they unveiled and a revamped online network, and Nintendo just may be able to get a portion of the hardcore market to commit to them. Throw in a few extra features on specifically on the Wii U, and Nintendo would have their first step into the hardcore gaming market.
1. Black Friday
The biggest shopping holiday of the year is another reason why we expect the Wii U to release on November the 18th. Having their system in stores the week before Black Friday would create nothing but a supply/demand scenario that Nintendo is famous for crafting.
Just like Nintendo did with the Wii, they’ll be able to have people clamoring for the Wii U just because you “can’t find it anywhere”. This will essentially result in an increased demand that will lead to a calculated supply of Wii U systems to trickle into stores as Christmas approaches.
While certain groups are counting out the Wii U at this point, Nintendo has a lot of potential for early growth this holiday season. Strategically releasing their system in the right time frame, which we think is November the 18th, will have quite a bit to do with their initial success. Having third-party developers jump on board and believe in the system’s design and functions, however, is another story entirely.
When do you think the Wii U will officially release? Be sure to let us know what you think by leaving us a comment below, or discuss the Wii U in our forums.