Snazzy logo for a long overdue service.

One of the biggest universal problems gamers have had this past generation has been Nintendo's online gaming service, the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection.  Those who purchased a Wii in 2006 hoping for Xbox Live 1.0 functionality were instead greeted to by a system that lacked any sort of comprehensive online plan.  Whether it was the Friends Codes, the near inability for developers to easily patch titles or the strict restrictions regarding voice chat, the system as a whole was flawed from day one.

Nintendo seems to finally have got the message that their system was anything but stellar.  In preparation for the launch of what may or may not be named the Wii U this Fall, Nintendo announced in an investors meeting that the new system will introduce the Nintendo Network.  Described in a manner not unlike the Playstation Network and Xbox Live, this new online service will allow Wii U and Nintendo 3Ds owners the ability to host "competitions and communication among users, as well as the sales of digital content."

"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."

This new system sound just like what we got with Xbox Live 2.0 at the launch of the 360.  Owners of Mario Kart 7 are already sampling the Nintendo Network by way of the game's community functionality.  You can read about the rest of the investor's call here if you want further details.

All I can say is that it's about bloody damn time that Nintendo finally realized how bad a decision they made back at the launch of the Wii.  Nintendo, welcome to this generation of consoles... one year before it ends.

Comments

  • Avatar
    TheFlameLurker
    12 years, 2 months ago

    *slow clap* Great Job Nintendo. Now you only need to make a console that fits in to the next generation.

  • Avatar
    Cramoss
    12 years, 2 months ago

    Better late than never

  • Avatar
    DGTinderbox
    12 years, 2 months ago

    This'll be an interesting experiment; I look forward to seeing progress on this. Nice article, Chris

  • Avatar
    WingZero
    12 years, 2 months ago

    Not much info. there...Hopefully there will be more at or by E3. Judging from their past, I'm not convinced they nailed it this time.

  • Avatar
    Rawkmaster
    12 years, 2 months ago

    On Mario Kart 7 i'm paired up with people in Spain, Japan, etc. Would it be the same in this? If so I gotta learn some new languages.

  • Avatar
    CrossOutlaw
    12 years, 2 months ago

    bout fucking time....i loved mario kart, but the online was such a let down, friend code...i cant make my own matches with friends? I cant talk to them? (before voice chat)...