We’re all one step closer to maybe, kind of, almost being able to reliably get our hands on a Wii thanks to a new program by Nintendo of America and GameStop.

Nintendo president Reggie Fils-Aime told reporters today that GameStop would have "many tens of thousands" of rain checks good for grabbing a system in January.

So while you might not be able to put a Wii under the tree this Christmas, you’ll at least be able to put an envelope with a rain check for a Wii under there, which is likely more than you could have done last year. The rain checks will be available December 20th and 21st and you’ll have to pony up the full $250 right then and there but you’ll be guaranteed a system before January 29th.

Nintendo and Gamestop to guarantee Wiis after holiday [Reuters]