Analyst: Move/Kinect shortages are fiction

Microsoft and Sony are manufacturing shortages of their Kinect and Move add-ons to ignite consumer demand, according to retail analyst Michael Pachter.

The Wedbush Morgan motormouth told IncGamers, "Yes, I think both companies would very much like for consumers to believe that their devices are highly sought after and difficult to obtain. That usually works to spur demand.

"Sony shipped 2.5 million units in the U.S. and Europe, and their sales are nowhere near that level, so I'm not sure how they can reconcile the fact that units shipped far exceed units sold.

"I do think that Microsoft is managing supply a bit better," he added, "and keeping standalone Kinect supply tight to make sure that there is a steady supply through Christmas. They have shipped a lot of console bundles, to ensure that the eBay price doesn't get above $300 for the standalone unit, but supply of the standalone remains tight.

"Sony are trying the same strategy as Microsoft with Kinect, making sure that there are plenty of bundles, but controlling supply of the standalone controllers."

Earlier this month both Microsoft and Sony claimed that their peripherals would be in short supply over the Christmas period following stellar launches.