With the Wii the most in-demand console on the market, the mainstream media appears ready to throw more than just statistical and sales praise on Nintendo.  For his part in shaping the Wii’s success, suave Shigeru Miyamoto is being highly considered by Time for the publication’s annual 100 Most Influential People list.

Despite some anger over the prolonged shortage of the Wii, most gamers – even those who haven’t been able to get their hands on the console – seem more than happy with Nintendo’s efforts in the last year.  The Wii flew into the holiday ’06 season under the radar, sticking to the shadows cast by Sony’s powerful PlayStation 3.  With the latter system in even shorter supply during the first weeks of release, many Christmas shoppers turned their attention to Nintendo, a somewhat unexpected move that has left PS3s on store shelves while gamers wait for Wiis.

Besides the retail reality, Miyamoto and Nintendo played a large part in the success of their most recent console.  Although it hardly pushes the graphical limits set by Sony or Microsoft, the Wii features gameplay simple enough that it ushers in the much-sought after casual gamer.  Yes, sports fans, girlfriends, even Moms and Dads have jumped aboard Miyamoto’s machine.

At this point, the prominent designer appears a shoe-in to make the list.  He may even head it, as Miyamoto currently only trails the “Jon Stewart inspired” Steven Colbert in ratings, while sitting fourth in votes.

Voting has been taken online this year, so anyone interested in supporting Miyamoto should visit Time’s website here.