Gamers Caught in Sega's Net

Bringing its Net Link peripheral to the next level, Sega announced that the first US games to allow direct-dial multiplayer gameplay will be available beginning today.

As a bundle, Net Link owners can purchase Sega Rally Championship and Virtual On with the new Net Link browser software for US$24.99 at retail outlets or through Sega direct sales. The two games and browser will also be packed with the Net Link peripheral and Sega Saturn Solution Pack - that includes a Saturn and Net Link - at retail.

Net Link gamers can meet via a customized online Web-based lobby that matches players across the country and includes a user directory called the Guest Book. Using personas and pseudonyms, players can taunt each other before and after gameplay.

Net Link games offer frame rates identical to stand-alone versions and full-screen, high-speed action with low latency (approximately 50 milliseconds). Players first meet online via the lobby system, then direct-dial each other for a game.

Sega's updated Net Link Web Browser is HTML 2.0-compatible, capable of displaying frames, and includes improved keyboard functionality. Using the browser, players can chat on Internet Relay Chat (IRC) and e-mail saved game files to other Net Link users.

In 1997, Sega plans to release three additional Net Link compatible software titles - Saturn Bomberman, Duke Nukem 3D, and Daytona USA Championship Circuit Edition.