We all know the next-gen systems are in high demand. So, what do you do when your kids are begging for a Wii or PS3 for Christmas and they are nowhere to be found? (Or you just want one for yourself!?) Here are some tips and tricks of getting a system for those who don’t know the gaming industry very well, or for those who do but still cannot get their hands on one.
First, you must understand how the industry works
For those venturing into game stores once a year, finding what you need can be frusterating. Game stores do not function like a supermarket; they hardly ever have extra in the back. We are at the mercy of the higher corporations estimating how many of each game, system, or accessory we should need for the week. Shipments come as they will, we cannot order more, hold one for you, or take bribes. Every day parents come in and ask why we don’t have a million of such-and-such in stock, and if they slip me an extra $400 could I please get one for them when they come in? We do not judge people or play favorites… the rich and the poor have the same chances of getting what they need. So, what can you do to insure you get what you need? Here we go……
Make friends with the employees
Making friends with the employees of your local gaming store can be your biggest in. Customers who treat employees with kindness and respect are more likely to get what they need, and to get it faster. Employees recognize good customers and always give them accurate information. We understand that the holidays can be frusterating, but by treating employees with respect, you’re more likely to get what you need.
We tell our customers to call every day around opening. We do not know when we are getting shipments until the day of. You need to call in the morning, when shipments come in. Systems are first-come/first-serve at every store, no exceptions. If the employees recognize the voice on the phone (hence making friends) they are more likely to say “Yes we are expecting some Wiis in today around noon”. Customers who come in at 4pm will never get a Wii or PS3. The morning is when it counts. We tell many customers this information, and when they do not take our advice, they unfortunately end up with nothing.
Be prepared to stand in line
Saying, “I’m not going to stand in line” automatically means you will not receive a system. You will need to wait, and most likely will need to wait several hours. Finding the time to camp out is hard, but usually pays off.
Use all of your resources
Find out which electronics stores are close to your house, and decide how far you are willing to drive. Check with all of these stores daily, and in the morning. Find out when each store opens, and what time they usually get their shipments. You need to be ready at a moment’s notice to drive wherever you need to be to get your system. Read the paper and look for advertising specials and the date they begin. Stores lacking what they are advertising can be sued for false advertisement, therefore they are likely to have what they advertise at opening on the day of the sale. Check internet sites, and never be afraid to stop in casually and ask.
Don’t look or act desperate
Listen patiently and spend time at the store. The systems will come, believe us! If you take my advice, you will most likely get one.
Now, if you get your hands on one, there will be a few more things you will need:
Invest in the warranty
Sony and Nintendo offer a 90-day extension of the factory warranty if you register your system online. If the store you are buying from offers a one or two year warranty, invest in the security. People throw controllers, knock or drop systems, and occassionaly systems just fry themselves. Not having to be away from your system or pay the shipping is a big relief. Also, many customer service centers will try to pin the customers with a lovely term called “willful damage”, which means that you will have to buy another system because they do not cover it.
Get the extra controllers and cables NOW!
Who says they’re going to have extras later? Each system comes with 1 controller. You will most likely need at least 1 more. Buy it at the time of purchase and save yourself more lines and headaches.
Lastly, if you do not get a Wii or PS3 before Christmas, here are some options:
Purchase your child or significant other a giftcard worth the amount of the system plus tax
Most kids gaming age and adults understand that these systems are in short supply, especially if you are trying to work while searching for the system. Once these are in abundance, your child or significant other can purchase the system themselves. If you know they want the system, use the money you would have spent and just give it to them instead of trying to find another item worth $250 or $600 that they didn’t actually want.
Please understand that these systems are only in high demand because it is so close to Christmas. Don’t kill yourselves trying to find one, but if you NEED it, use the aforementioned tips to help yourself out. The production or Wiis and PS3s is increasing steadily, and I have a feeling these will be readily available right after Christmas. Keep your eyes and ears open, you’ll hear and see clues others will not.
Good luck!