Nintendo's Hot-Ticket Consoles In Short Supply

REDMOND, WA - In 2016, Nintendo released the Nintendo Entertainment System Classic Edition, a miniature, updated version of the 80s original. Unlike its predecessor, there's no need to blow on cartridges (remember that?) to get them to work. The 30 classic games, like Super Mario Bros., Tecmo Bowl and The Legend of Zelda, all come preloaded on the system and are playable in HD.

At $79.99, this looked like the ideal Christmas present for gamers of a certain age.

But the company, whose U.S. headquarters are located in Redmond, now admits it had no clue how popular the NES Classic would be. Online orders sold out quickly and nostalgic Gen X'ers lined up at stores on release day. The limited supply meant most people who wanted the console didn't get one before Nintendo discontinued production earlier this year.

Fast forward to 2017 and the same thing is happening for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System Classic Edition. The console doesn't launch until Sept. 29 but pre-orders have sold out within seconds. While the list price is again $79.99, scalpers have been fetching prices as high as $300.

Maybe this totally 90s trailer for Super NES Classic explains what all the fuss is about.

But Nintendo of America CEO Reggie Fils-Aimé said no one should have to pay higher than MSRP. The company released a statement saying it's responding to the "incredible demand" for both products. On launch day, Nintendo said it will drastically increase the number of units it ships. Additionally, production of the Super NES Classic was supposed to end around Christmas 2017, but now will be extended into 2018.

"Fans have shown their unbridled enthusiasm for these Classic Edition systems, so Nintendo is working to put many more of them on store shelves," according to a statement from Nintendo.

The company also plans to bring back the NES Classic Edition in summer 2018.

Among Nintendo fans, some are saying they're glad Nintendo is listening, while others are skeptical that production will actually increase. Nintendo is known for limiting supply specifically to stoke demand. Many industry analysts have said the company may be using these throwback consoles to create buzz for their more expensive, premium products like the current-generation Nintendo Switch.

Whatever the business strategy, one thing remains true for now: It's not easy to get either console. If you want a Super NES Classic, your best bet is to line up at a Gamestop, Toys R Us or Best Buy in the wee hours of Sept. 29.

Or you could wait it out and hope Nintendo follows through on its promise.

Image via Nintendo