Consoles going online at video game expo
Seattle PI | at | by Mike
The new generation of video game consoles from Sony, Nintendo Co. and Microsoft have more than zippy processors and flashy graphics in common: They're also getting serious about online services.
Although earlier models also provide the necessary plugs to enter most online worlds, they've done little to capitalize on them.
That's changing with the upcoming PlayStation 3 from Sony and the Wii from Nintendo, as well as the Xbox 360 released by Microsoft late last year.
All three contenders in this round of console wars have announced broad plans to turn their systems into networked hubs that deliver an array of content and services beyond just games - features like videoconferencing and downloadable movies.