And, surprisingly, about one-fourth of shoppers may be in the market for a game system this holiday season. A new survey from research and consulting firm Parks Associates finds that 25% of consumers intend to purchase a video game console, up from 12% in 2011 and 9% in 2010.

It's not just the Wii U driving intent, says Parks Associates analyst Jim O'Neill. Shoppers expect to find holiday deals on the PS3 and Xbox 360, both of which have matured into digital media receivers capable of streaming movies and TV, as well as playing high-definition video games.

"There's just more content coming over that device now. So you kill two birds with one stone: You get a great gaming console and a great way to get over-the-top television," he says.

That intent to buy could also be a hint that consumers foresee economic improvement. "It just seems there's a little more confidence," O'Neill says. "You just see people breathing a sigh of relief that, 'OK, I can have Christmas now.' At least that is what I am hoping."

From the article, "Wii U, 'Call of Duty,' 'Halo' ready to ignite holiday sales" by Mike Snider. 

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