It seems like no one really knew how popular Nintendo’s Amiibos were going to be. Even Nintendo itself has apparently been caught off guard, as multiple models of the figures have sold out across the US. The Marth, Villager, and Wii Fit Trainer Amiibos from Wave 1 are a perfect example, with them selling on Amazon and eBay for much more than their original price. With Wave 2 launching last week, and Wave 3 coming in February, this will only get worse, especially since many of Wave 3 are store exclusive, making them even harder to get. However, there is a work around that you can use to get some of these, admittedly for a bit more than their base price, but if they end up being as rare as the Wave 1 and 2 figures then it will likely be a better deal. Import them.
Currently Amazon France has both the Rosalina and Lucario Amiibos available at their original price. Unfortunately the transfer rate and shipping will end up costing you a lot, but overall you’ll save more than if you wait and buy from eBay resellers. Unlike Wii U games, Amiibo figures are region-free, meaning you can pick them up anywhere and they will work everywhere else. If Amazon France ends up selling out of the figure you want just check some of the other options, like Amazon Japan where you’ll also find Villager and Marth for sale much cheaper than in the US.
Obviously, none of this is ideal as it would be better to just buy the Amiibo and adapater from a US store and not have to pay exorbitant shipping fees. However, if you really need these for some reason, such as being a rabid collector like myself, then this might be the best and only option outside of throwing your money at the resellers that are ruining the experience for so many.
Published: Dec 22, 2014 12:00 pm