Family Computer Network System

Family Computer Network System
Famicom with modem
Famicom with modem
DeveloperNintendo
Typemodem peripheral
GenerationThird generation
Release date
  • JP: September 1988 (1988-09)
Lifespan3 years
Discontinued
  • JP: 1991 (1991)
Units shipped130,000[1]
Removable storageROM card
Controller inputFamicom controller with numeric keypad
ConnectivityDial-up modem
Online servicesNomura Securities
Best-selling gameBetting on horse racing
PredecessorCartridge, Disk Fax kiosks
SuccessorSatellaview
Related64DD

The Family Computer Network System (Japanese: ファミリーコンピュータ ネットワークシステム, Hepburn: Famirī Konpyūta Nettowāku Shisutemu), also known as the Famicom Net System and Famicom Modem, is a peripheral for Nintendo's Family Computer video game console, and was released in September 1988 only in Japan. Predating the modern Internet, its proprietary dial-up information service accessed live stock trades, video game cheats, jokes, weather forecasts, betting on horse racing, and a small amount of downloadable content.[1] The device uses a ROM card storage format, reminiscent to the HuCard for the TurboGrafx-16 and the Sega Card for the Master System.[2][3]

Nintendo gained experience with this endeavor which led directly to its satellite based Satellaview network for the Super Famicom in the early 1990s.

  1. ^ a b Takano, Masaharu (September 11, 1995). "How the Famicom Modem was Born". Nikkei Electronics (in Japanese).
  2. ^ "ファミコンの周辺機器が大集合! ザ☆周辺機器ズ 11" [A large collection of Famicom peripherals!]. Ne.jp. Archived from the original on 2015-02-23. Retrieved 2014-06-14.
  3. ^ "Wi-Fiコネクションについて講演 『ウイイレ』など40タイトルが開発中 - ファミ通.com" [Lecture on Wi-Fi connection 40 titles under development, including 'Wi-Re']. Famitsu. 2006-03-25. Retrieved 2023-04-05.