Reuters examines the somewhat controversial and unknown release of a complete Wii online platform. From the article: “In early March, rumors began circulating on popular video game Web sites that Nintendo was not allowing any third-party video games to include online multiplayer features in 2007, drawing the ire of some fans who want to break out of their living rooms and take their Wii gaming prowess global.”
Despite the rumors, Nintendo’s VP of marketing George Harrison went on to say, “I’m confident there will be third-party titles with online game play by the end of the year.”
Lastly, GDC director Jamil Moldenia makes an astute observation when taking into account Wii’s insane success right now sans online play. “Nintendo’s strategy has worked extremely well for them, despite what we on the side might say,” Moledina said. “There’s a danger when you try to match a trend. I think Nintendo’s strategy is a good one.”