Nintendo Edges into Online Gaming

This article comes from Highwaygames.com

Nintendo kicked off its modest online plans Wednesday with the release of Internet adapters for its GameCube console. The online add-ons consist of a modem for dial-up Internet access and a network adapter for tapping into a high-speed DSL or cable modem(both pictured left). Each sells for $35 and allows the GameCube to make an online connection through any Internet service.

What the game console will do online is still a question, however. For now, the only GameCube title that can take advantage of online play is a new version of Sega's "Phantasy Star Online," a fantasy role-playing game that requires a $9-a-month subscription for access to online features.

Nintendo and third-party publishers have been deliberately cautious about embracing the online world, saying there needs to be a proven business model to justify further investment. By contrast, Microsoft is investing heavily in Xbox Live, the upcoming online service for its game machine. Sony is taking a more conservative approach with online services for its PlayStation 2, letting publishers foot most of the bill for getting games online.

SOURCE: news.com.com