[Bu-aeri's Game Dictionary] "Phew, Didn't Win Nintendo Again"

[Asia Economy Reporter Buaeri] "I didn't win the Nintendo Switch lottery ㅠㅠ" is a phrase commonly found on online communities and the internet these days. At first glance, it seems like a giveaway event where you didn't win a prize, but the "lottery" here refers to a 'purchase ticket.' Even though you pay the full price, you must 'win' to be able to buy it. The Nintendo Switch purchase battle, triggered by the popularity of 'Animal Crossing,' is still ongoing.

Due to the impact of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), Nintendo's console game device, the 'Nintendo Switch,' is experiencing a shortage. On top of that, the popularity of 'Animal Crossing: New Horizons,' released last March, has added fuel to the fire. 'Animal Crossing' is a game for the Nintendo Switch. It involves decorating a house on a deserted island, talking with forest animals, fishing, and freely customizing the island. It gained great popularity because it lacks stimulating scenes like killing or hitting others and does not involve competitive leveling up.

According to Daewon Media, the domestic distributor, the Switch sales volume in the first quarter of this year was 82,848 units, a 30.4% increase compared to the same period last year. Considering the volume supplied directly to large marts, the actual sales volume is expected to be much higher.

However, supply is still insufficient compared to demand. The price of the Nintendo Switch, which was 360,000 KRW, traded at 600,000 to 700,000 KRW in April when it was hardest to find. The special edition featuring 'Animal Crossing' even saw prices rise to 800,000 to 900,000 KRW. Currently, the Nintendo Switch is still being traded at 400,000 to 500,000 KRW with a premium.

Korea Nintendo attempted additional supply in April, but it is still not easy to obtain a Nintendo Switch. As many people are trying to get one but supply is insufficient, sellers have recently been selling Nintendo Switches through a 'lottery' system. During the application period, you apply, and only if you win are you given the right to purchase. After winning, you must go through identity verification with an ID card to finally get the game console.

Regarding this, Korea Nintendo explained, "We made additional supplies in April as well, and although we cannot disclose the exact ratio, we are continuously trying to increase the additional supply volume."