Christmas is almost here, and Nintendo are prepared, with Planes, Trains and Automobiles!

In a press release, Nintendo issued a warning to the rest of the gaming world. Approximately 4 million Wii units will be available during the first six or so weeks after the American launch until the end of the year.

Nintendo is mobilizing the largest worldwide video game console launch in at least a decade, with approximately 4 million Wii(TM) systems available globally during the six weeks between Wii's Nov. 19 launch in the Americas and the end of 2006. Although the largest share of that worldwide allotment will go to the Americas, Nintendo expects supply will be outpaced by demand, based on retailer orders, intense consumer requests and placement on numerous "gotta have it" holiday lists.

Nintendo is maximizing all its resources for a rapid replenishment program designed to consistently pump Wii consoles into the supply pipeline and keep retailers' shelves as filled as possible. In addition, Nintendo factories are working around the clock manufacturing the extraordinary new system. Nintendo is employing fleets of planes, cargo ships, trains and ground vehicles in each global market to maintain the best supply flow possible, starting in the Americas.

"Wii is for both experienced and uninitiated gamers, and it will be available for the masses," says Nintendo of America President ReggieFils-Aime. "Because of demand, we're urging shoppers not to get complacent. The level of demand we're seeing goes beyond the ordinary. Retailers are telling us a significant fraction of customers pre-ordering Wii are nontraditional gamers � people looking for a better way to play. And that's exactly what Wii is designed to provide."

This is looking very, very promising. The last thing you want at Christmas is to go into a store, only to find that Nintendo didn't forsee a shortage. Luckily, they are actually thinking this through. Who are they, and what have they done with the old Nintendo?!

To read the full press release, click here