Pre-orders on WizKids' Pirates at the Ocean's Edge (see 'Pirates at Ocean's Edge'), which shipped recently, were higher than those on Pirates on Davy Jones' Curse, which shipped last year.  WizKids Executive Vice President Joe Hauck felt that was one indication that the initial response to WizKids new exclusive distribution arrangement with Alliance (see 'Interview with Lax Chandra and Joe Hauck, Part 1, and Part 2') has not hurt sales, and may have helped. 

Hauck also noted no noticeable drop-off in the number of stores supporting WizKids' organized play programs. 

But the real test will come with orders for the next major releases for HeroClix, WizKids' #1 brand, in June (see 'WizKids Retools 'HeroClix''). 

Hauck was also excited about the promotional activity behind WizKids' upcoming Star Wars Pocketmodel TCG.  The coupon promotion (see 'WizKids Star Wars Ads Direct Fans to Stores') was at least in part the result of being able to manage the redemption through Diamond/Alliance. 

WizKids is also offering limited returns (one booster box per store) and free-withs at the wholesale level, including a P.O.P. display with each 24-count booster display, the Release Day Party Kit with three booster displays, and three months of prize support for in-store events with six booster displays.