The following paper is a study of the impact Internet connectivity is having on the home video gaming market. The purpose of this paper is to prove that Internet connectivity is beginning to play a key role in the overall success of a videogame system and its respective company. This study will elucidate in the areas of videogame terminology as well as present the reader with accurate information on the aspects of the online gaming market. In the following paper, background information on how Internet gaming works and how it is connected will be explained in detail along with an explanation on what is needed to bring a game online. Also discussed, will be upcoming video game titles to support online game play as well as a comprehensive look at the next generation systems. I will give insight on the marketing strategies of the big-name game developers and show how online game play is involved. Video gaming in general has grown over time and with the addition of online playability, it will continue to progress.
Terminology Used.
"See You Online".
Over the course of the next seven chapters, I plan to evaluate and explain the affect that the Internet is beginning to have on the video gaming market. In case you are not familiar with the Internet, or video game terminology here are a few words or lines used by gamers and those in the gaming industry. After reviewing these terms and their meanings, you should feel right at home. Throughout this paper the words system, console, and unit are all used interchangeably to describe a type of videogame that is intended for use in homes. Both definitions of a Videogame and the Internet will be described in their respective sections. More technical terms such as Connectivity, Modem, Broadband, Dial-up, Internet Service Provider, and Cyber Space (among others) will be explained when they appear in the paper. Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft are all Hardware developers who manufacture the Game Cube, Playstation 2, and Xbox consoles respectably.
