History is indeed repeating itself, as GameStop has decided to close off both Wii U models for pre-order. The console has been completely cleaned out only a short time after it became available, just as was the case with the original Wii.
As a result, they have now opened up a Wii U waiting list. Essentially, Power Up Rewards members will be able to put their name on the list, and as new Wii U units become available they will be notified. If one becomes available, they will go to the waiting list first. Of course, there’s no telling when new Wii U units will become available. So you are essentially just putting your name on a list so that you can receive one as soon as possible. GameStop will continue to e-mail members on the waiting list status updates concerning the state of Wii U pre-orders.
At this point, you will be lucky to find a Wii U anywhere except random small mom-and-pop stores that haven’t advertised their pre-order program to a great extent. You also might be able to hit up big chain stores like Walmart or Target, as they tend to have one or two stragglers sitting on shelves.
The Wii U officially releases November 18.