Nintendo Confirms Nintendo Network

Nintendo has finally confirmed its plans for the Nintendo Network, a formal, branded service for the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U. Outlining the concept in brief during an investor’s program, company president Satoru Iwata, confirmed the online infrastructure is already in place for the service.

Iwata quickly drew contrast with his company’s previous Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection program:

“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.”

The publisher’s plans are as follows:

• Personal Accounts for Wii U – Nintendo will now allow personalized accounts for its next home console, which will allow multiple users per system. Online profiles will no longer be system-based. “We will also be able to construct and offer the [personal account system] by combining a variety of different services and content,” Iwata said.
• Digitally Distributed Packaged Software –Nintendo is exploring the idea of selling full retail games through the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U. The company is not willing to say when this program will start, but it now has the full ability to do so. Iwata noted Nintendo would need to consider retailer relationships first. He also noted SD card space limitations would be another factor. “The significance of this business field will increase,” said Iwata.
• Paid Downloadable Content – As we’ve heard previously, publishers will now be able to offer paid DLC for different games, starting with Square’s Theatrhythm Final Fantasy, which will allow players to purchase new songs for the rhythm-based game.