If you've not yet been able to get your mitts on a NES Classic Mini, it's time to step up your efforts, after Nintendo confirmed that they've discontinued the pint-sized retro console, at least in the US. In a statement sent to IGN, the company confirmed the following:
"Throughout April, NOA territories will receive the last shipments of Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition systems for this year. We encourage anyone interested in obtaining this system to check with retail outlets regarding availability. We understand that it has been difficult for many consumers to find a system, and for that we apologize. We have paid close attention to consumer feedback, and we greatly appreciate the incredible level of consumer interest and support for this product."
Might they be preparing a new and improved version of the console? That's certainly the likeliest scenario, what with the huge demand that this first iteration of the product has enjoyed. Either way, if you want one, you'd better hurry up before the last batch runs out.
Nintendo also told IGN that the "NES Classic Edition wasn't intended to be an on-going, long-term product. However, due to high demand, we did add extra shipments to our original plans."
Nintendo of America could not confirm whether this announcement meant the discontinuation of the NES Classic/Famicom Mini worldwide, though. It is worth noting that the statement from Nintendo specifically mentions the production being ceased "for this year", which could indicate a reintroduction of the item in the future.