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SALT LAKE CITY -- In an effort to play drastic catch-up with Sony and Microsoft, Nintendo has announced plans to release the Nintendo Network, an online gaming service that will allow users to create personal accounts on the new Wii U console, and provide downloadable content for both the Wii U and Nintendo's latest handheld device, the 3DS.
Although the Wii and DS already sport a Wi-Fi connection, the Nintendo Network intends to offer a proper online service, complete with integration into the system's functions, and allow gamers to create a personal online account in place of the dreadful "Friend Code" system.
The new profile system will also create more personalized experiences for families who share a console, as it will allow for individually dedicated profiles.
"Also for the Wii U, we are planning to introduce a personal account system compatible with Nintendo Network," Nintendo president Satoru Iwata said during the company's quarterly financial and policy briefing. "With this, for example, the ease of using a video game system when the hardware is shared by multiple family members, which has been a challenge we needed to tackle, shall be improved, and we will also be able to construct and offer the system by combining a variety of different services and content."
Nintendo has fallen behind by a few years, now, in the online gaming service division. Microsoft's Xbox LIVE now enjoys over 40 million subscribers, while the Playstation Network reported nearly 70 million users in its latest report.
While not officially announced, it is speculated that features such as achievements -- or the Playstation equivalent of trophies -- and voice chat will be included with the initial Nintendo Network launch, in addition to customizable profile cards.
It is worth noting that, while Xbox LIVE Gold memberships currently cost $59.99 for a 12-month subscription, the Playstation Network offers its services for free. Whether or not Nintendo has decided to continue offering its online services free of charge remains to be seen.
