Computer games manufacturer Sega Enterprises Ltd is to build modems into its new line of Dreamcast games consoles, and give away PC-less internet access as standard. But the deal is very different depending on which side of the Atlantic you live. In the US, the $199 Dreamcast will come with a built-in 56kbps modem to allow players to join the Sega Dreamcast Network, an internet service allowing multi-player gaming with hundreds of participants. The network also offers email, chat rooms, and online shopping.
In the UK, the $322 Dreamcast will come with a built-in 33.6kbps modem and subscription-free internet access courtesy of British Telecommunications Plc and its mainland partners. Online gaming and chat will be introduced at a later date. Players will pay local call rate per minute for access via the telephone line. A Sega spokesperson declined to comment on whether Sega would take a cut of the call revenues, the way the marketing partners of every other subscription-free ISP funds its operations. But whichever way the money is split, European parents can expect some æshock’ telephone bills.
In continental Europe, players can benefit from the same access package via BTÆs European partner network: Cegetel in France, VIAG Interkom in Germany, BT Spain, Albacom in Italy, Telfort in the Netherlands, Sunrise in Switzerland and BT Belgium. The market for subscription-free ISPs on the mainland is still tiny, with a handful of players offering limited services. It will be available in the US and Europe in time for Christmas.
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