Several software retail chains around the nation, including such giants as Babbages and Software Etc., have placed a halt on customer preorders for the Sega Dreamcast system. The stores no longer let consumers place a hold on systems for September 9, claiming that preorder stock has been filled. Electronics Boutique stores also claim that preorders will halt shortly. This is the first time a hold has been placed on a hardware preorder campaign.

　　GameSpot News contacted Sega of America today to inquire about the preorder halt. A Sega spokesperson claimed that "there are a specific number of presale units allotted per store or retail chain, and several have filled those presales." When asked if there was any sort of shortage with the Dreamcast hardware, the representative responded, "No, there definitely will not be a shortage. "We're hoping to reach 300,000 preorders for the system, but all retailers will have plenty more Dreamcasts to sell on day one."

　　So, why hasn't Sega made these additional units available for preorders? (After all, people are ready and willing to put down money for the Dreamcast units, and stores are currently turning them away). Sega didn't have an answer to that question.

　　If Sega makes any moves to remedy the preorder situation we'll report them right here.