This is taken from a new article at Nintnedo.com
Namco, Sega & Nintendo Form Business Alliance For Next-Generation Arcade Game System
Feb/19/02 12:00 PST
Companies will apply the architecture of Nintendo's all-new home video game console, Nintendo GameCube to arcade gaming.
Namco Limited, Sega Corporation and Nintendo Co., Ltd. today announced they have joined forces to develop a 3D computer graphics board for next-generation arcade game system applying the architecture of Nintendo's all-new home video game console, Nintendo GameCube(TM).
Dubbed "TRIFORCE," the system board of Next Generation Arcade Game is designed to improve graphics performance and enhance overall arcade game play. Through their alliance, Namco and Sega will seek to expand the arcade game market, create a cost-effective environment for arcade game developers and establish a wholly new fun-game system to bridge the home and game arcade entertainment experience. A prototype will be shown at the AOU 2002 Amusement Expo in Makuhari, Japan on February 22nd.
Here is a translation of the Japanese press release:
Namco Limited, Sega Corporation and Nintendo Co. Ltd. have reached an agreement to jointly develop the 3D computer graphic board for next-generation arcade machines applying the architecture of the home video game console Nintendo GameCube (Triforce board).
In September 2001, Namco Ltd. And Sega Corp. entered into an agreement to develop an amusement-based business. The companies agreed to collaborate on the development of a 3D computer graphics board for next-generation arcade machines. With Nintendo's involvement, it assures this plan to be put into definite shape.
The goals of this agreement are: to expand arcade video game market; to create a cost-effective environment for arcade video game development; and to establish a totally new game system that will bridge game play between the home and amusement facilities.
Triforce, the mother board for next generation arcade machines, will be developed jointly by Namco Ltd., Sega Corp. and Nintendo. It utilizes the applied architecture of the Nintendo GameCube. With the high computer graphics performance of Nintendo GameCube, software developers will have a very cost effective development environment. In addition, the technology is user friendly and allows not only end users but also amusement facility operators to enjoy the advantages of the product. As a result, the companies expect to see more arcade software developed and increased investment efficiencies.
With the Triforce board acting as a hub of business, Namco Ltd., Sega Corp. and Nintendo are aiming at synergy to take effect in the field of parties' technology and business know-how. Also, by the vitalization of both amusement and consumer video game markets, we propose new game play that nobody has experienced before.
So far, the technical collaboration has been making good progress in terms of hardware design and the creation of software development environment under this agreement. We are planning to show a prototype with video output capability at upcoming AOU 2002 - Amusement Expo held at Makuhari Messe on February 22.
Basically what this article is saying is that Nintendo is finally teaming up with their arch-rival Sega! And not only that, but the two (if you include Namco...it makes 3) companies are going back to the arcade business! That means Nintnedo might make some GameCube games for the arcade (Super Smash Bros. Arcade would be a great start)!
Two of my dreams have come true: Nitendo would eventually team up with Sega... and Nintendo will go back to making arcade games...
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