(RNN) - Nintendo announced its NES Classic Edition, a smaller version of its original video game system, would be discontinued in North America.
In a statement Thursday to IGN, the company said the last shipments of the NES Classic would be shipped in April.
"We understand that it has been difficult for many consumers to find a system, and for that we apologize," said a Nintendo spokesperson. "We have paid close attention to consumer feedback, and we greatly appreciate the incredible level of consumer interest and support for this product."
The system, a mini-replica in appearance with 30 classic games preloaded, was released in November. Demand for it far exceeded supplies, with many stores selling out and people selling them on eBay and other secondary markets for hundreds more than its $59.99 original price.
Additional controllers sold separately also will be discontinued. The representative told IGN that the product was meant to be a limited edition, and extra shipments were added due to popularity.
The company did not say whether sales of the system would continue outside of North America. Nintendo reported it had already sold 1.5 million units worldwide at its earnings report in February.
The news came the same week as the company's newest system, the console-handheld hybrid Switch, became the fastest seller in Nintendo history. Switch has sold more than 900,000 units the company said.
Games on the NES Classic Edition included Super Mario Bros. 1 through 3 and the original Mario Bros., as well as The Legend of Zelda and Zelda II: The Adventure of Link. Excitebike, Mega Man 2, Metroid and Ninja Gaiden are some of the other classics (for full list, click here).
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