Business

If your children are already asking for a hand-held video device called Game Boy for Christmas, better act fast. Nintendo, the Japanese manufacturer of this year's hottest toy, expects to produce 1 million Game Boys for sale in the U.S. this season -- but that will meet only half the estimated demand. A portable video-game system that is controlled by a microprocessor chip, Game Boy uses interchangeable cartridges, and it offers stereo sound.

Priced at $90, the toy is more expensive than the average stocking stuffer. But it comes with headphones, a high-resolution screen and an accessory called Video Link that enables players to hook two machines together for head-to-head competition. Not all the games involve zapping; some call for role playing. Nintendo hopes the diversity of the games will help attract girls, who represent 25% of Game Boy's following.