13th February 2003, 11:52 AM
There are very few things within the video game industry that carry immense mindshare among the American consumers: Doom, Mortal Kombat, Pokemon, Grand Theft Auto, and duct tape. If the hardcore fans are any indication, Zelda is a part of this elite group. 250,000 preorders are on record for the Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker so far. This news comes right before the kickoff of Nintendo's preorder campaign, which officially starts February 16th. Once the mass-market retailers like Walmart, Toys R Us, and KB Toys become privy to the deal, this number will grow.
This is encouraging news for Nintendo of America. Analysts and Nintendo fans feared that the new Zelda look might turn away consumers, but 250,000 seems to be a very strong at the start of a preorder campaign. The strength of this program will be demonstrated in the March sales of Zelda:WW, which will account for the first week of sales.
For comparison's sake, Super Mario Sunshine sold 300,000 in its first week. It is likely that, with the Zelda name and the inclusion of free merchandise, Link will outperform his Italian plumber counterpart.
This is encouraging news for Nintendo of America. Analysts and Nintendo fans feared that the new Zelda look might turn away consumers, but 250,000 seems to be a very strong at the start of a preorder campaign. The strength of this program will be demonstrated in the March sales of Zelda:WW, which will account for the first week of sales.
For comparison's sake, Super Mario Sunshine sold 300,000 in its first week. It is likely that, with the Zelda name and the inclusion of free merchandise, Link will outperform his Italian plumber counterpart.