Nintendo Announces Nintendo Network

Nintendo has announced the Nintendo Network, the company's antidote to the long-held gripes of users who have wanted Nintendo to offer a comprehensive online service like Xbox Live and PlayStation Network for their many platforms. Nintendo Network, which will work with 3DS and Wii U, will offer downloadable content, the possibility of full first and third-party digital game downloads, social and multiplayer features, and a personal account system.

"Whether it's our first-party titles or third parties' titles, for a number of games, we will actively attempt to achieve compatibility so that our consumers can enjoy our online services that we will deploy under the name of the Nintendo Network," Nintendo president Satoru Iwata said. "Unlike Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, which has been focused upon specific functionalities and concepts, we are aiming to establish a platform where various services available through the network for our consumers shall be connected via Nintendo Network service so that the company can make comprehensive proposals to consumers."

"For example, competitions and communication among users, as well as the sales of digital content, will be covered within the Nintendo Network," he added.

The first title to be made available on the Nintendo Network will be Japanese 3DS title Tobidasu Pricla Kiradeco Revolution, along with add-on content.

Further details on the system will be revealed at a later date. Many of the things mentioned above, such as full game downloads, are still being considered by Nintendo apparently. The Nintendo Network may be online by the end of the year in time for the Wii U’s launch though it is unknown at this time if the service will launch at the same time as the system. Nintendo announced yesterday that it would launch the Wii U in 2012.

Source: C&VG