Yes, I read that too... that most people didn't have to line up for an Xbox because they have pre-ordered already. Which basically meant that many could just get it shipped to them, or pick it up from their local store on the day.
Apparently the only ones that were queing were the die-hard fanatics that wanted to be seen lining up ... or those who didn't like the pre-order system and decided to take a chance on turning up (like me).
Well... except I didn't have to line up... I had someone on the other side of the world do it for me!
And one shop my Xbox buyer went to sold out in 10 minutes. So it would just depend where you go.
I can't see price being a factor... as the PS2 was the same cost when it first come out. Microsoft had to lose money on the consoles just to keep the price that low.
Abe Babe...