Nintendo to launch new gaming platform for Wii U and 3DS

Nintendo is going head to head with Microsoft and Sony by launching its own online gaming platform.

The Nintendo Network is expected to go live later this year when the company's new console, the Wii U, goes on sale. Users of the network will be able to download digital content for the 3DS and Wii U consoles, including games and play against other members of the new Nintendo community.

Players can also create their own communities, set the rules and allow people to join.

The news was broken by Nintendo's president, Satoru Iwata when the company released its policy briefing and third quarter financial results last week.

Announcing the new platform he said the aim was to offer a service that was different from those the company had been offering under the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection.

He explained that the move was a natural extension of the new community functions which are already available in Mario Kart 7.

"Unlike Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, which has been focused upon specific functionalities and concepts, we are aiming to establish a platform where various services available through the network for our consumers shall be connected via Nintendo Network service so that the company can make comprehensive proposals to consumers.

"For example, competitions and communication among users, as well as the sales of digital content, will be covered within the Nintendo Network," said Iwata.