Pachter: Wii U “Sweet Spot” Price Would Be $249
By Alex Co | July 22, 2011 | News | No comments | Share
Nintendo’s upcoming console might be labeled with the “Wii” brand, but that doesn’t mean it’s going to be using the same technology. One of the big differences it has with the current Wii is that it will allow for HD games to finally run on a Nintendo console, and will have graphics comparable to what the PS3, Xbox 360 has now – at the very least.
Did I mention that the console will have a tablet-like device as its controller? If you think about it, all these things combined make it seem that the Wii U will be one pricey toy.
Not so, at least according to industry analyst, Michael Pachter. In an interview with IndustryGamers, the famous analyst was asked what he thought the Wii U’s upper price limit will be, and if it can compete when the PS4, Xbox 720 eventually comes out.
It would surprise me a lot if the Wii U cost more than $399.99, and I think that the sweet spot is $249.99. Pricing really depends upon where the other console bundles (PS3 with Move and 360 with Kinect) are priced at the time the Wii U launches, because people who don't yet have a console are likely going to choose among the three offerings, and the biggest driver in the purchase decision is usually price.
I have repeatedly said I thought the next generation Wii should come out in 2009, then 2010, and when it was clear that it wasn't happening, have repeatedly said that a later launch was too late, as it will come too close to next generation launches from the other console manufacturers. Thus, the question now about whether the Wii U can compete with the PS4 and Xbox 720 is just a set up for me to say 'I was right'. I know how much all of theIndustryGamers readers like to acknowledge when I'm right, so thank you for a question that allows them to do so ;-)Michael Pachter on Wii U's pricing and next-gen
While there are a lot of people who seem ti disagree with the Pachter, I’m guessing this is not one of those times. If Nintendo can come up with relevant software and a proper use for its tablet-controller and be priced at $249, I’m guessing a lot of people will see it as a good deal – myself included.
