UK retailer giant, Dixons, has dropped all its Gamecube support. Dixons says that there isn't enough shelf space for the three consoles and has given Gamecube the cold shoulder.
A company representative added, "Due to the continued poor sales on GameCube we are beginning to take our first steps to clear out the format. GameCube hasn't sold well, so for now we're concentrating on just Xbox and PS2. It's purely about shelf space. Three consoles take up quite a lot of that. Once we've cleared stock we'll review our next steps."
Nintendo countered the statement by saying, "Dixons represents a small share of Nintendo's business, and we are continuing to actively trade with them. GameCube is currently available in 4500 stockists across the UK including HMV, Toys R Us, GAME, Virgin Megastore, Argos, and Woolworths."
Whether Nintendo likes it or not, this is a huge blow for Nintendo in the UK. Hopefully this won't become a trend.
SNK is like an abusive boyfriend; he keeps hitting me, and I want to leave him, but then I think about the good times we have together and keep telling myself I'll give him just one more chance to change.
They're a huge chain of stores that also own PC World and Currys. Whilst they don't shift a lot of software, this means less market presence for Nintendo. It's the beginning of the end for Gamecube here, NOE need to wake up and do something. This month Prime, RE Zero, SMB2 and PSO2 are out... which is 3 months too late.
WHSmiths have started supporting the Xbox now and in my local store are obviously trying to clear out GC software with 3 for 2 offers and £30 price tags.
Originally posted by Sidez
WHSmiths have started supporting the Xbox now and in my local store are obviously trying to clear out GC software with 3 for 2 offers and £30 price tags.
Jeez! Man, it sounds like it's about time to go lookin for all those titles you missed before.
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Originally Posted by shidoshi
SNK is like an abusive boyfriend; he keeps hitting me, and I want to leave him, but then I think about the good times we have together and keep telling myself I'll give him just one more chance to change.
Originally posted by 88mph
Congratulations... the system has two exclusive games that are worth owning. This would be fine if the Gamecube was released, like, a half hour ago.
Originally posted by Kidnemo I own two xbox games compared to about ten or so GC games.
What does that prove?
That my lunch is actually pretty good today and I need another glass of water.
Um, that you don't like multiplatform releases (or you would buy the Xbox versions) or you only like Nintendo games or those geared towards the GameCube audience. It also signifies that you are in the minority, and there are very few like you.
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Originally posted by xS ...rouge leader,...
Its fucking rogue you makeup wearing candy ass! Not rouge!
I like my Gamecube but the only games i'm interested in or own are made by Sega, Nintendo or Capcom (Starfox is the only exception but then that's a Nintendo property). Needs more variety, it must suck if Gamecube is your only system though.
Originally posted by gamevet
There's nothing wrong with Resident Evil, Zero or Eternal Darkness.
I'm not a big fan of those type of games. The only horror games I like are Fatal Frame, and SH. And even those games play like poop.
IMO, the GCN had a better launch but 2002 was a bit dissapointing. This year it has the potential of being the best out of all the 3, if we can get 4-5 good first party games, the 5 capcom games, FF:CC, the sega games and unity this year. Hopefully, this year they won't screw up like they always do.=|
God if you think this is bad, if MS, Nintendo, and Sony make good on their promises we'll have 6 systems competing for shelf space in 2005. Something's got to give.
Originally posted by Master
Um, that you don't like multiplatform releases (or you would buy the Xbox versions) or you only like Nintendo games or those geared towards the GameCube audience. It also signifies that you are in the minority, and there are very few like you.
Actually, it just means I like Sega games a lot. If it wasn't for Gun Valkirye, Jet Set Radio Future, or Panzer Dragoon Orta (NOT Saga!) I wouldn't of even bought an xbox.
But hey, I didn't list any games so you did alright for what information you had.
Thanks to a leaked memo from PC World, the whole 'net now knows that the Dixons group will no longer have the console at retail once initial supplies are exhausted. This includes Dixons, Currys, PC World and Link stores. The memo states, "Due to the continued poor sales on GameCube we are beginning to take our first steps to clear out the format." Ouch. Not a good sign for Nintendo.
Nintendo, however, claims that it's not a big deal. A statement read earlier today said, "Dixons represents a small share of Nintendo's business, and we are continuing to actively trade with them. GameCube is currently available in 4500 stockists across the UK including HMV, Toys R Us, GAME, Virgin Megastore, Argos, and Woolworths."
On the other hand, one retail source put it this way: "The Dixons group is the biggest seller of console hardware in the UK." Therefore, this may hurt Nintendo more than they are willing to admit. This move by Dixons surprised much of the industry. Some felt that it was definitely a premature move, while others were happy that their biggest competitor in retail decided to stop selling the console, which could lead to more sales at other UK stores. Nevertheless, all of the UK will be watching to see if any other stores follow suit.
In the meantime, there are deals galore at Dixons. Dixons currently is selling the GameCube at the ultra-low price of £99, and you get one free game (Luigi's Mansion, Eternal Darkness, Disney's Magical Mirror, Wave Race or Pikmin) with the purchase of the console. Additionally, all GameCube games are going for the bargain price of £25 each as the group tries to clear out stock. Even more enticing, if you buy Pikmin, Burnout, Crazy Taxi and a third-party steering wheel, you'll get a free GameCube.
This is sad news for Gamecube, especially since it is part of a much bigger trend of developers jumping ship as well. I don't have a Gamecube but I can't say I am not disappoined. Out of the 3 current consoles it was the one I most wanted. I really like the hardware and the philosophy behind it's design..... but fucking hell did Nintendo ever botch things. Except for a small handful of 1st party games (meh) there is no damn software for most players. You can analyse this from many angles but I think that's essentially what the problem comes down to. There are no games. I know That's why I don't have a Cube..
Also, this (and other recent news) is earily similar to what happened to Dreamcast towards the end. But there are a few differences. Nintendo is probably still making some money on the Cube even if sales are poor and there are all these bad indicators... and even if they are not making much, they can afford to weather problems. Sega couldn't. I guess the big question is if Nintendo can turn things around or if the system will just continue to be margainalised....
This is truly sad and disturbing news. I would hate to see the Cube suffer the same fate as the Dreamcast. At the moment, my GC gets the most play (out of GC and PS2). I decided not to get an X-Box seeing as the next one is coming out pretty soon, and most of the games I wanted are on the Cube and PS2. Its strange to see what has happened to Nintendo over the past few years. At least they are on top of the hand held industry (but for how long).
I think this store is jumping the gun BIG TIME if you ask me, considering the amazing upcoming line up from Nintendo themselves (as well as the upcoming Capcom games that are coming out for the GC first at least). It might be the fact that the games are coming out in the UK a lot later though.
This next year promises some amazing stuff from Nintendo as a developer. I mean new Zelda, new F-Zero, new 1080, Pikmin 2, Mario Tennis and Golf are slated to come out some time this year (chritmas maybe), as well as Mario Kart. Nintendo has more games then any other system right now that I am exicted about. Pff thier loss I figure.
Clash, it's not about quality (which is debatable) but rather sales and profits. They simply can't sell the consoles, what do you want them to do? they'll make more money by devoting more space to things that will sell.
I don't think you can blame the retailers (or the developers) for dropping the system. Rather blame Nintendo themselves for not ensuring the software support and advertising would be there to drive sales and keep retailers and developers happy. Sure, there are a lot of hardcore old school Nintendo fans that are thrilled with the big Nintendo made games so far. But that's just a small segment of the market and even with those people, GCN is usually their "second console". Most of those people already have the system too. With the always low price it's hard to see them attracting new owners too. Most people who want a Cube probably already have one, and with the software trends it's hard to see them attracting a spike in hardware sales.
I really can't blame anyone except for Nintendo themselves. They're mainly catering to a shrinking demographic (their existing fans). Now they are stuck in a bad cycle of poor sales, developers dropping support, and retailers dropping or shrinking shelf space. Each trend is probably making the other worse and I don't see Nintendo digging themselves out of it.
Lucky for Nintendo fans, I don't see Nintendo dropping the system regardless of what happens. Nintendo will support it themselves if they have to, which will keep most owners happy enough (as long as it's not the only system they own). But it's still the continuation of a long slow downward spiral.
Prime in December/November (Christmas)
Star Fox in october
Mario Sunshine in august
and that's about it. Now looking at it, there weren't alot of blockbusters last year past the end of the year sales. Sidez said it best when he said GC isn't good if it's the only console you have.
But if you look at Xbox the only real blockbusters lately to be only on their system is PDO and Splinter Cell. Splinter Cell isn't even exclusive anymore...
It's about balance, but, for me atleast, I believe the quality of Nintendos titles far outweigh those of Microsoft and most third parties, so they get the edge with me.
It's purely opinion based for what's 'better'.
This year the 'Cube has the potential for a killer second half. Summer is stacked with Wario World, F-Zero, Viewtiful Joe, and PN 0.3.
June - Wario World, Sonic Adventure DX, Ultimate Muscle,
August - F-Zero, P.N. 03, Soul Caliber 2 (with link, depending on which char you want this'll be different, I suppose)
September - Viewtiful Joe, The Hobbit, Harvest Moon: A Wonderful Life (Lets hope it's like Harvest Moon 64).
Bomberman Jetters, Camelot RPG, Doshin the Giant, Kirbys Air Ride, Mario Kart, Mario 128, Realistic Zelda, Pikmin 2, Killer 7, and Metroid Prime 2 are a reason to be looking to 2004. And hopefully some will land here for 2003.I believe FF: CC is due sometime this 1/2 as well.
I dunno. It's a hard choice to pick, but if I had to pick I would go with the prospective Nintendo. Xbox has Rare titles and Halo 2 as it's big titles (And Fable).
1080, Ikaruga in April to atleast tie us over, somewhat.
Splinter Cell will be making its debut in May along with Lost Kingdoms 2 and the new Mega Man Connection
Hard to choose. But I choose with Nintendo for now. Of course Sony always seems to pull games out of their asses.
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Originally Posted by rezo
Once, a gang of fat girls threatened to beat me up for not cottoning to their advances. As they explained it to me: "guys can usually beat up girls, but we are all fat, and there are a lot of us."
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Originally Posted by Drewbacca
I would love nothing more than to rape g0zen and Firstblood.
Dixons is clearly stupid. REZero is currently the 2nd best selling game in Europe. There are several other games in the top 30, including Sonic MC, SMB2, and Rayman 3. Prime will be out later this month. Why on earth would they do such a thing when the gamecube is having its best month in europe since launch?
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Originally posted by Kinopio
Dixons is clearly stupid. REZero is currently the 2nd best selling game in Europe. There are several other games in the top 30, including Sonic MC, SMB2, and Rayman 3. Prime will be out later this month. Why on earth would they do such a thing when the gamecube is having its best month in europe since launch?
March is an excellent month for the GC in Europe but that's simply not enough. Dude, have you seen the release lists for the PAL GC? It's pitiful, the march releases are essentielly America's nov/dec lineup. The system had a great launch but NOE failed to expand on this.
Originally posted by 88mph
Congratulations... the system has two exclusive games that are worth owning. This would be fine if the Gamecube was released, like, a half hour ago.
Xbox and Gamecube have become dueling losers in two marketplaces. Why, check out this bit from www.gamefront.de concerning MS stance on Japanese developers:
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OD Fries: Japanese developers need the Xbox/new rare play 2003
11.03.03 - XBOX IGN led an interview with OD Fries, Corporate
Vice President Games Publishing at Microsoft. According to Fries the
Japanese video game market is to shrinks. The developers would search
therefore for new sales markets outside of Japan. They see the fact
that itself the Xbox in Europe and the USA very well sold and thinks
therefore to support the console
This is true of big budget titles perhaps, but niche titles like shooters that don't see US/Europe releases will be doomed. *-neo
You know things would be much better if Nintendo didn't hold out on all of its damn game info until fucking E3!
Right now, a lot of people think mid-2003 and early '04 are going to be lackluster. Not every gamer checks gaming news sites every damn day.
Nintendo thinks it's this magical orgy for fans come E3... but buying a console is an investment. People want to know if they will still be playing it in the future. From the sound of it, Nintendo has a lot to keep a customer satisfied. But we need validation, and we need more magazine cover-worthy info. I can't count how many times I hear people spew out miss-information about Nintendo, as if it were "fact". Nintendo has to be more open to their fans and fans of games.
JC, How many N64 games were shown at the beginning of its life span that didn't make it?
3rd parties make games for those consoles that sell a lot.
GC doesn't sell a lot, less games get made.
Nintendo isn't going to give incentives like MS will to counteract that.
I'm surprised that chains in Japan aren't dumping XBoxes already.
Originally posted by mattvanstone
It's pretty simple.
3rd parties make games for those consoles that sell a lot.
GC doesn't sell a lot, less games get made.
Nintendo isn't going to give incentives like MS will to counteract that.
I'm surprised that chains in Japan aren't dumping XBoxes already.
I think they have bundle deals in Europe.
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Originally Posted by rezo
Once, a gang of fat girls threatened to beat me up for not cottoning to their advances. As they explained it to me: "guys can usually beat up girls, but we are all fat, and there are a lot of us."
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Originally Posted by Drewbacca
I would love nothing more than to rape g0zen and Firstblood.
It's a vicious cycle too...one a console isn't selling well, support buckles, and sales get worse. So support lessens...and so on... it's like you have to hit the ground at top speed with a barrel of hype strapped on the side to even make it without criticisms or wavering.
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I can't wait 'til your next post where you get upset at McDonald's for not being gourmet anymore.
My cube is used much more often than my XBox. Titles that make my Cube worth the smaller price of admission include:
Rogue Leader
Smash Bros. (my son loves it)
Metroid Prime
Mario Sunshine
Star Fox
Skies of Arcadia Legends
Phantasy Star Online
Zelda: Ocarina of Time
That's eight quality titles (IMO). Add to that many of the outstanding titles coming up: Wind Waker, FZero, Wario and PN03 (I'm looking forward to that one) and you have 12 quality titles for the $150 console. Plenty of gaming fun for anyone. Starcraft Ghost will be cross-platform, as will Soul Calibur 2 (with a playable Link). All the EA sports titles will appear on the system. This system - by itself - can support itself. You could spend 1000's of hours with just a Gamecube as your home console.
Add to it the GB-to-GC player and you've opened up a whole new world - the entire Gameboy collection on your full screen with a real controller. They just doubled their catalog of games. I do agree that some of those games pale in comparison to the next gen games. But imagine Advance Wars in the living room on the 36" screen.
The Gamecube is NOT going anywhere. There is a nice bright future for it. Capcom has pledged full support, EA will not abandon it, Square-Enix will be adding some Final Fantasy happiness that way. And the owner will make some fantastic must-have games for it.
I agree with Nintendo's statement - I don't think this is a big deal to them. I do feel the store has jumped rather quickly, particularly with the appetizing list of upcoming games.
I look forward to many more hours of gaming fun on my little square gaming box...
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Currently Playing: Marvel Ultimate Alliance (XBox 360), Civilization IV (PC)
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It's funny. Before the three systems actually came out, I was sure the GC was the one I would own. I loved the hardware design and OOT was great so I expected greatness... Right now I own an xbox and a J-PS2 with no intention of ever owning a GC. It simply does not have the games to make me buy the system and I loathe the controller.
Even if the GC came out with great games in the near future, I already own two systems at this point, which both have pretty full libraries on their own. There's no incentive for me at all.
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"I've watched while the maggots have defiled the earth. They have
built their castles and had their wars. I cannot stand by idly any longer." - Otogi 2
I have all three and honestly, were it not for my wife playing her daily dose of Animal Crossing, the dust on my GC would be about 3 inches thick. There's just not enough that interests me. Add the fact that most GC games don't drop below $40 here and it's no wonder I have about 3 times as many Xbox and PS2 games.
The same thing happened between launch, RE, and Sunshine. I hardly played the GC at all. Prime and RE0 got massive playtime but it seems I always played the system in massive spurts as opposed to in a regular rhythm.
"Add the fact that most GC games don't drop below $40 here and it's no wonder I have about 3 times as many Xbox and PS2 games."
Actually here now 3rd party games are begining to either drop to $39 or come out at $39, ports also seem to be dropping in price than faster than there xbox and PS2 counterparts, but of course this might not be a good sign. Hopefully for you they will drop there too.
Sadly its looks like the GC may end up like the DC in europe fairly soon.
Originally posted by mattvanstone
I'm surprised that chains in Japan aren't dumping XBoxes already.
well, they would dump them but theyre too heavy. so employees just leave them on the shelf.
hell, there are still hundreds of Xboxes on streets and subways from launch day. those special bags didnt help one damn bit.
and i dont know why people think 1080 will save the gamecube (or atleast help its sales). its a snowboard-racer. nothing like Coolboarders or my beloved SSX Tricky (which also needs a sequel). those games are fun because you can do Freestyle courses. from what ive heard, you dont do that in the new 1080 instalment.
