The first video game console system to truly encourage consumers to get up off the couch has led to a phenomenon where people are coming together in groups to party and play.
"In the past, video gaming tended to be less mainstream, especially among adults. Today more games are rated 'E' for everyone and more parents are inclined to play these types of video games with their children. The Wii, in particular, is great for parties because of the level of activity and the multiplayer format -- it's fun to play and fun for others to watch," Lariayn Payne, VP-marketing and public relations at Evite, told AdAge.com.
Nintendo, for its part, is looking to encourage the practice of social gaming and has partnered with retirement communities, a cruise line and others.
Beth Llewelyn, senior director-corporate communications at Nintendo, said, "The opportunities are almost unlimited in tapping into new ideas or working with new partners," she said. "We're talking to a lot of people we haven't before -- from media outlets to partners to consumers. It's really broadened our base."
David Riley, an analyst with NPD group whom AdAge.com described as an "avid gamer," said, "In terms of marketing, there's a lot of opportunity just waiting to be hatched, especially on the local level."
Not surprisingly, Wii console sales and games built for the system have been hot sellers. According to NPD's numbers, seven of the top 10 best-selling titles were Wii games.
Discussion Questions: Where do you see opportunities for retailers to profit from social gaming activities? Do you see social gaming as a fad or the beginning of a trend?