GameStop halts US Wii U pre-orders as nation’s stock runs dry

The early indications are very positive for Wii U.

Retailer GameStop is one of five – the others being Best Buy, Toys R Us, Sears and Walmart – to have already sold out of their launch allocation of the Deluxe Wii U bundle.

And the number of retailers offering stock of the Basic bundle is dwindling.

GameStop has now launched the Wii U Wait List programme that offers consumers the chance to guarantee their machine – though GameStop is unable to clarify the timeframe in which the order will be fulfilled. It has promised to update those who take advantage in a monthly email, suggesting the wait could be a significant one

It has also reserved the scheme for PowerUser Rewards members.

"Demand for Wii U has been off the charts and we know many of our PowerUp Rewards members are anxious to get their hands on one," GameStop president Tony Bartel stated.

"We’re happy to offer our customers this exclusive opportunity to join the wait list for this must-have item.”

Wii U will launch in the US on November 18th. It arrives in the UK on November 20th.