I recently got my hands on a coveted Nintendo Wii, only to find out that it was fickle about reading the discs once I had it all hooked up and ready to go. After cursing out the little plastic box, I decided to call Nintendo customer service and see what my options were. I kind of assumed that it would involve sending in the machine for repair, and that I could kiss the Wii goodbye for at least 6-8 weeks.

To my surprise, and to Nintendo’s credit, they process was very simple, and the rep I spoke with was super friendly and helpful. They offered to ship me a brand new Wii, no questions asked beyond “what was wrong with the console?”. All I needed to do, was to give them a credit card, so that they could charge me $200 should I neglect to return the broken unit within 21 days. Easy peasy.

Thank you for contacting Nintendo regarding our Advance Replacement program. We wanted to let you know that your order has been shipped to you as requested. You should receive your replacement system within the next two to three business days.

This got me thinking. Getting a Wii is not cost prohibitive, it is just impossible to find them. Basically anyone that really wants one, could easily cough up the $250 to get the system, should they actually get the chance to do so without camping outside of a WalMart in the cold just for a shot at chop blocking another nerd trying to get to the shelves first. So what is stopping you from pretending that you have a broken Wii, just to have Nintendo overnight you a shiny new system no questions asked? As far as I can see, nothing.

I suppose that whether or not Nintendo sends you a new system really depends on the problem you are having with the console. My issue was “Won’t Accept Game Disc“. It’s a crap shoot, but look through the support docs for an issue where the suggested resolution is simply to call their customer service line, as this will likely offer the best chances at getting a replacement system.

Long story short, once you get the offer for a replacement system, it is smooth sailing. No need to provide purchase information, receipts, serial numbers, photos, specific information, nothing. Just a credit card, and a shipping address. From there, sit back and wait for the UPS man to drop off your brand new Wii, and enjoy.

It is important to note that the $200 charge will get you a replacement console only, no remotes, no Wii Sports, and no other accessories…but still, not a bad deal….and WAY easier than scouring eBay or waiting in long lines for your Nintendo Wii.

Oh, and for the record, I sent my broken console back as promised, and I don’t openly condone “gaming” the system…I just thought it was a pretty wide open loophole that was interesting to note.

UPDATE: So apparently you don’t even need a working credit card, and can skip that pesky “pay for the wii” part of the process. The documentation that arrived with my replacement wii, contained the following paragraph:

In the event that you do not return your non-working system to Nintendo, and we are unable to charge your credit card, we will unfortunately have to postpone delivery of future magazines, repaired components, and/or part orders. In addition, we reserve the right to forward your account information to a collections and/or credit agency for further action.

That last bit about collections could make things hairy, but interesting nonetheless.

Happy holidays. I was reminded of this great Robert Smigel creation, when I went to the kosher Dunkin Donuts in Washington Square (Brookline) this morning.

Thought it was apropos.

This is a trade show must-have.

Link to purchase, here.