Video game maker Nintendo Co. Ltd.7974.OS will introduce an online element for its GameCube this fall, executives for its U.S. subsidiary said on Monday, marking the company's cautious entry into the fledgling market for online console games.
Nintendo said it will offer dial-up and high-speed Internet adapters for the GameCube in the fall at a suggested retail price of $34.95.
Rival game console makers have already announced similar plans. Microsoft Corp.'s Xbox has a built-in broadband adapter and Sony Corp. plans to offer an adapter with both dial-up and broadband ports for $39.99 in August.
The first game to be available for online play will be Sega Corp.'s "Phantasy Star Online." Sega said on Monday the game is expected to come out this fall, the company said.
Online gaming has been a major market for PC games for years but has been slow to catch on for the console market.
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