Fears of the 3DS becoming hard to obtain post-launch seem largely unfounded, with reports that demand may have been overestimated and units are sitting on store shelves.

Make no mistake, the system has been a success, with US retailer GameStop citing a "very strong" demand. That demand, however, has not outmatched the supply, which means either Nintendo really did put out a crapload of units, or consumer desire -- at least at launch -- is not as overwhelming as one might have thought.

I can certainly tell you that in my bumblefuck hick town, the launch for Modern Warfare 2 was a lot bigger than this. Compared to the huge line I observed for Infinity Ward's last game, the 3DS launch consisted of me and three other guys -- one of which was just there with his friend. I was also able to change my pre-order color, since they had plenty to spare.

It's incredibly doubtful that the 3DS won't be a major success, but the launch seems to have been somewhat tepid compared to predictions. Has the rise of mobile gaming truly put a dent in Nintendo's handheld armor, as some believe? Or is this just a natural slow burner?

Nintendo 3DS Remains In Stock, Demand Overestimated? [Industry Gamers]