1 Million Nintendo Wii consoles for North America at launch [UPDATE]

Update: We have recently received following statement to help debunk some misinformation and rumors. Please read the update here:

“A number of outlets have reported a misstatement about the number of Wii consoles that will be available in the Americas during the launch rollout. In fact, the truth is even better. After the Americas lead the worldwide launch on Nov. 19, Nintendo expects to sell 4 million Wii consoles globally by the end of 2006, with the largest allotment available in the Americas. Although we expect a huge demand for the consoles, we are working to ensure a plentiful supply and a consistent flow.”

That is the official statement and launch numbers straight from Nintendo. Anything beyond that is to be regarded and misinformation and just rumors.

[Original Article]
We know that Nintendo plans to ship out 4 million consoles by years end, globally. We also know that they planned to ship about 2 million in the Americas, by year end. We now have confirmation via an interview that North America will get 1 Million Wii consoles at launch.

“We’re looking at a million (units) for North America at launch,” said Bertram. “When Sony came out (with their PS3 announcement), they said 300,000.

“If we get what we’re supposed to get, this will be our most plentiful launch in the 15 years I’ve been at Nintendo. All signs are actually extremely positive.”

Source

After the XBox 360 mess, everyone seem a bit antsy to get their pre-orders in. This information should put some people at ease. With 1 million consoles at launch time, it should be easier to get a console without a pre-order. All US retailer seem to be holding off on pre-orders, until they can get firm numbers from Nintendo on their launch day allocation numbers.

Nintendo also promises that there will be 30 Nintendo Wii games available by December 31st.