Does EA Have the Inside Scoop? Wii Priced at $170

Concerning the market state, gamers are paying for something that just looks a bit better with newer systems, while content hasn't changed. Microsoft and Sony have been selling specs, numbers that mean next to nothing in a scene where graphics already are mind blowing. By contrast, Wii is selling a new experience and not just a Gamecube with 2x or 3x better graphical ability and an attachment, as the entire game focus shifted to gameplay.

David Gardner, Executive VP and COO of EA's worldwide studios prompted a $170 price tag for the dollar equivalent of Nintendo's Wii. Keep in mind that he passed information on a what-he-heard basis, as GamesIndustry.biz was quick to reveal: "I've heard in Japan that the price is about $170." Could this forecast be nothing more than just the latest Wii rumor, or does EA indeed have the truth?

A recent financial report from Tokyo-based Nikko Citigroup also stated Nintendo's Wii will launch in Japan for 19,800 yen (about $170), therefore it is likely Gardner based his assumption on the said piece of information. However, thus far Nintendo declined to reveal the exact hardware details, a price point or a release date. The company did confirm the console will retail for less than US $250, at a launch date previous to the end of the year. Shipments are estimated to a 6 million total by the end of March 2007.