I swear I’ve written 3 separate times about this subject, but this really does look to be it – the NES Classic Edition is over and done.
That’s it. Game over. This last batch is the end.
It’s been reported to IGN, and of course being shared via every gaming news outlet imaginable, that Nintendo has finally announced that they have ended production of the NES Classic Edition. Incidentally, their announcement of such is rather, well, odd… let’s look at the text:
Throughout April, NOA territories will receive the last shipments of Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition systems for this year. We encourage anyone interested in obtaining this system to check with retail outlets regarding availability. We understand that it has been difficult for many consumers to find a system, and for that we apologize. We have paid close attention to consumer feedback, and we greatly appreciate the incredible level of consumer interest and support for this product.
NES Classic Edition wasn’t intended to be an ongoing, long-term product. However, due to high demand, we did add extra shipments to our original plans.
So, it looks like stores will be getting a final shipment, if they haven’t already, and then, that’s the end of that. I find it annoying, from a retail worker point of view, for them to suggest you ask retailers – if you live in any decently populated area, you aren’t going to find one. That simple. They will be gone within 10 minutes of the store opening whatever day they are available, so, yeah… good luck on that one.
I find it interesting they acknowledge it was never intended to be a long term item – it would seem perhaps my previous articles about it being a holiday-only item were valid, but they then decided to produce more. Makes sense.
Their overall attitude here though is basically “tough shit” which, well, honestly, I can’t even fault them for. As I said, I’m certain it was a holiday-only item and while it’s popular as hell and they *should* continue it as a product, there are many reasons (licensing, etc) they may not wish to keep it going. Granted there are ways to work around that, but in the end it is what it is.
Nintendo could make more, but they aren’t. That’s it. They probably feel it will cut into DS and Switch sales to have it as an option, so under that thought it makes sense to end it after making some extra units. I’m not defending Nintendo, however, I’m just saying what the logic probably is regarding this.
As for the console itself, sure, many people thought it was pointless, but for the “average person” it was an awesome little thing, and clearly many people, both hardcore and casual gamers, do want one. It’s going to be a while before they finally give up the hunt, but at least now retailers can say with certainty there will be no more.
I’m glad I got mine for cheap.
Oh, and for the last time, it’s not the “NES Mini.”: