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GameStop Expects Nintendo Switch, VR Supply Problems To Last All Year
Retailers are extremely bullish on the prospects for Nintendo's console/handheld hybrid. GameStop said earlier in week it believes the Switch install base could eventually eclipse the Wii, which sold more than 101 million over the course of its lifespan. But don't expect buying one to be easy in 2017. Yesterday during its earnings call, GameStop revealed that because of strong demand, Switch supply problems won't be going away any time soon.
"The demand is incredibly strong for this," said GameStop COO Tony Bartel. "As soon as we get any in our stores, it's out within hours. We anticipate we're going to be chasing supply this entire year."
GameStop also reported some astounding numbers regarding the Switches that have sold thus far, saying there is nearly a 1:1 attach rate between Switch and its premiere title, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. If you include accessories alongside games in the attach rate numbers, it balloons to 5.5. Considering the lack of compelling games for the Switch beyond Zelda right now, that must mean the company is selling a lot of Pro controllers, cases, and Joy-Con charge grips.
During the call GameStop also revealed it that purchase intent for Microsoft's Scorpio console is at "PS4 levels or higher" and that interest in VR platforms continues to be strong. Just like with the Switch, the retailer expects demand to outstrip supply through 2017.
[Disclaimer: GameStop is the parent company of Game Informer.]
OUR TAKE
The game industry continues to expand into new territories with new consoles and technologies, and it's encouraging to see such strong demand. At the same time, it amazes me that companies struggle with supply problems nearly every time a new device hits the market.
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