GameStop's DeMatteo: Xbox 360, Wii Supply Problems Possible, Less So For PS3

Author: by Leigh Alexander, Eric Caoili

As part of a larger interview with Gamasutra, GameStop CEO Dan DeMatteo says that the video game retailer could possibly see hardware shortages for both the Xbox 360 and Wii this holiday season. "I think Microsoft is having a hard time keeping up with demand on the $199 Arcade system," says DeMatteo, who believes that brisk sales for the cheapest Xbox 360 model will prevent any further price reductions in the near future, no matter the economy's condition. "Same way with the Wii," he adds. "While we’re in stock, and we believe we’re going to be much better off than before, I think the Wii still has a chance of being a sellout this year." Nintendo of America president and CEO Reggie Fils-Aime recently predicted that the company, with Wii production up 33 percent over 2007 at 2.4 million consoles produced per month, will be able to keep the system on shelves, commenting, "I think we've got a good shot at meeting [Wii] demand during the holidays." As for the PlayStation 3's probability of receiving a price cut, DeMatteo notes, "Given the economic environment, [the PS3] is clearly pricey." The lowest priced PS3 model retails at $399, significantly more expensive than the $199 Xbox 360 arcade model and the $249 Wii "That $199 price point is striking a strong chord with the economically-strapped consumer," he says. "I would have to say Sony eventually will drop the price -- I just don’t think it's going to be anytime real soon." You can read the full in-depth interview with GameStop CEO Dan DeMatteo, which includes the company's plans for adapting to the economic downturn, his thoughts on music games seeing "softer" sales this year, and more.