PORTAGE, Mich. – Lines of loyal customers once again lined up this week outside stores, like the Best Buy in Portage, looking for a brand-new gaming console.
Last week, gamers did the same thing for the PS4. This week, it’s Microsoft’s latest offering, the Xbox One.
It’s another unofficial start to the holiday season, with hours of line-waiting becoming commonplace. When it comes to Xbox One vs. PS4, it would seem you are either on one team or another.
“It’s Ford or Chevy,” said Doug Storey, a supervisor at Best Buy. “Divided lines, but people are going to get real excited for the Xbox.”
It seems retailers are becoming increasingly familiar with this sight.
“Just like Black Friday we will pass out tickets, they will know beforehand so they can go safely be in their cars and then come in,” said Storey.
Stores are offering ‘can’t miss deals’ yet again on Black Friday to create a buzz. Best Buy is among a growing list of stores that will also be open on Thanksgiving.
Walmart, Target, Macy’s, K-mart, Toys-R-Us, Kohl’s, Sears, Staples, Dick’s Sporting Goods and J.C. Penny are just a few other big name retailers open on the holiday.
K-Mart is even opening it’s doors at 6 a.m., leaving some to wonder if all that takes away from tradition of allowing time to be spent with family.
The customers that we spoke with, in line for the new Xbox One, said they will make this pilgrimage just once, and therefore came prepared with canopies, coolers, even an iPad doubling as a TV.
Then there are those who really prepare, who don’t have to wait in line because they ordered gaming systems back in March. Those who plan like that didn’t have to wait in the rain, gambling that they won’t be going home soaking wet and empty-handed.
