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Handheld Sales Skyrocket

GBA, PSP, DS

Sony Computer Entertainment and Nintendo both released new variations of their handheld systems in the last week. Early reports hint at impressive numbers for both systems.

The Game Boy Micro caused the biggest sensation - it sold around 150,000 units in its first week. Even though it has less compatibility to its bigger brothers, people were snapping it up thanks to the customisable faceplates and tiny size, even with a higher price than the SP.

In particular, the NES-themed unit - we've shown it to you earlier - sold out pretty much across the region with a couple of days of release. It chalked up 60% of the overall sales, with the other system colours - silver, black, purple and blue - selling in that order of popularity. The release seemed to have little effect on sales of Nintendo's other handhelds, which is pleasant news for the company.

In terms of software sales, the Super Mario Brothers Famicom Mini series (Japanese version of the NES Classics series) edition was a proud partner to the GB Micro. The title was re-released to coincide with the 20th anniversary of the game, and also with the Micro. It too sold about 150,000 units.

On the PSP side of things, we know less about actual numbers. Sony's white system was released in conjunction with Winning Eleven 9. We haven't heard any specific stats, though the system did see a surge in sales. IGN claims, however, that the sales didn't even top those of the DS - though, of course, we'll have to wait and see.

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