The NES Classic Mini should have been a home run for Nintendo- and if the intent was to generate some awareness and buzz around the Nintendo brand again, then I guess it was. But for many fans who wanted to buy one of the smaller microconsoles for themselves, to relive the classic 8-bit Nintendo games, it was an unmitigated disaster- the console was chronically undershipped, and mostly no one got their hands on it. By the time demand finally began to settle, Nintendo abruptly announced it was discontinued, to the chagrin of many.
The announcement of the SNES Classic Mini from earlier today led many to raise their feelers reflexively- after all, what guarantee was there that Nintendo would not pull the same stunt again? However, in statement to Kotaku, Nintendo assured that there would be more supply this time around.
“We aren’t providing specific numbers, but we will produce significantly more units of Super NES Classic Edition than we did of NES Classic Edition,” Nintendo said.
They were also very clear that the system is not going to be a permanent thing, and is currently planned to only be a limited thing for the Holidays. “Super Nintendo Entertainment System: Super NES Classic Edition is currently planned to ship from Sept. 29 until the end of calendar year 2017. At this time, we have nothing to announce regarding any possible shipments beyond this year.”
Let’s hope they have enough for everyone who wants one to get one.