Sega consolidates cross platform gaming plans

Sega of Japan has gone on record to disclose the first stage of its cross-platform gaming strategy. Known as Sega Open Dice System, the plan is to create a virtual theme park that will enable gamers to play against each other without having to worry about which platform they use.

At present, the infrastructure is in place to support players on Dreamcast, PlayStation 2, PC and Naomi cabinets, which will be modified to support online play.

Games confirmed for Open Dice include Guru Guru Onsen, Aero Dancing I and Derby Owners Club Online and many more are set to follow. Sega made specific reference to its Sega Sports range, which it is eager to deploy across the new network.

So remember Open Dice. In the not too distant future it is likely that it will become the only portal to offer cross platform console gaming. It was not made clear whether or not the player will be expected to pay a subscription to play on Open Dice.

Sega has also confirmed that both Nintendo and Microsoft have taken receipt of the Open Dice development tools and licensing paperwork, though no decision by either company has yet been made.