e-Amusement
Current e-Amusement Pass design
DeveloperKonami
TypeArcade video game network system
Launch date2003
Platform(s)Arcade video game
StatusActive
WebsiteOfficial website (in Japanese)

e-Amusement, stylized as e-amusement, is an online service operated by Konami, used primarily for online functionality on its arcade video games.[1] The system is used primarily to save progress and unlockable content between games,[2] participate in internet high score lists, access other exclusive features depending on the game, and access the Paseli digital currency service.

The system uses online user accounts tied to a contactless smart card system called the "e-Amusement Pass". Users log into an e-Amusement enabled game by holding their pass up to the card reader and using a PIN.

The system is similar to parts of the functionality of the rival Taito NESYS and SEGA ALL.Net systems.

Magnetic cards

An e-Amusement card reader on a Jubeat machine

Prior to 2006, e-Amusement used magnetic stripe cards called Entry Passes that were sold separately for each game using the platform, either from an arcade desk or through a vending machine. Each card held data for one player, and typically came in 5 designs specific to the game (usually featuring character artwork). "Special" cards were also distributed from time to time, often alongside the console versions of certain games; these cards could sometimes be used to unlock special content in their respective game.

e-Amusement Pass

In 2006, Konami began to phase out the original magnetic card system in favor of the e-Amusement Pass; an IC contactless smartcard that works across all games that were upgraded to use the new system. The new cards also use a 4-digit PIN for security. In the event the pass is lost, its existing data can be transferred over to a new pass through Konami's website.

The pass can also be linked to a mobile phone "Konami NetDX" account, allowing players to access their scores and other data on their mobile phone.[1] On some games, customization of the game can also be done through the NetDX system. However, only smartphones sold in Japan with FeliCa RFID support can use this function.

Features

The e-Amusement pass mainly functions as a method to allow players to save their progress across game sessions. Several compatible arcade game series incentivize the use of the system by offering a free round to first-time card holders.[2]

See also

References

  1. 1 2 "Save Konami Arcade Game Data To Your Mobile Phone". Siliconera. 2010-11-12. Retrieved 2024-01-06.
  2. 1 2 Simone, Gianni (2017). Tokyo geek's guide : manga, anime, gaming, cosplay, toys, idols & more. Rutland, Vermont: Tuttle Publishing. p. 87. ISBN 9784805313855.
This article is issued from Wikipedia. The text is licensed under Creative Commons - Attribution - Sharealike. Additional terms may apply for the media files.