It would seem that the comments Caleb made in regards to my previous post were a tad naive. In Stratford, there are very few stores that deal in gaming (and all things related). Microplay is available, as well as a freshly opened EBGames. These two locations - taking preorders for the XBox 360 - discovered that the supply would not meet the demand. Disgruntled consumers turned to their last refuge - Zellers.

On the eve of November 21st, at approximately 11:30 PM, the first XBox 360 consumer arrived at the doors of Zellers and began to wait it out. Early on the morning of November 22 - at about 4:30 AM - a legion of consumers arrived at Zeller’s red gates excited for the hunt that was sure to begin. Anticipating the arrival of the new system, there were upwards of 30 people furiously crammed on the front porch.

When they were finally released inside, a platoon of six Zellers employees was on staff in Home Entertainment to ensure that a riot would not ensue over the coveted system. Amongst these were the Merchandise Operations Supervisor, and the Sales Supervisor - as well as four other Zellers associates. The consumers approached the counter anxiously; they had failed to comprehend that Zellers had received only 6 of the Standard XBox 360s, and 4 of the Core Systems. The thirst for blood and conquest was evident in the consumers.

After the assault, Zellers quieted down. This syncs up with the time of my arrival. During my afternoon shift, I received no less than twenty-two calls about the XBox 360 and whether we had it in stock. To each person, I chuckled and explained that “those went to the people who were here at 4:30 in the morning”.

All in all, it was quite interesting. Frankly, I cannot understand the allure of the XBox 360…it is a foolhardy investment. The graphics on Perfect Dark Zero betray the next-generation’s intended visual goal. Frankly, I will abstain from getting a next-gen. It is likely my gaming will be restricted to portables: a breed of gaming that - when coupled with wi-fi - knows no limits. After Christmas, I will purchase a PSP for my gaming pleasure. Andreas already got a Giga Pack, as well as Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories and Socom.

Indeed, the future of gaming is in handhelds. I am aware that I’ve bashed the PSP and DS for lacking titles, but frankly, they have time to shine. And handheld gaming is too damned convenient to ignore any longer.

Later.