GameSpy confirms game-specific Wii friend lists

[wraggster]

via cvg (http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=160045)

You will need to build up an entirely new friend list for each and every online Wii game, it has been confirmed.

Talking to a Nintendo blogger about Wii's friend code system, GameSpy commented: "GameSpy's technology does allow for features that could span multiple games. With the Nintendo Wii, however, the multiplayer features are title-specific."

They went on to say: "For the Wii, friend lists are game specific", confirming an earlier report on CVG.

This mirrors system used on DS, which also requires gamers to tiresomely enter lengthy friend codes into each and every game they wish to play online.

This awkward system is unlike the Xbox 360 and PS3, both of which apply a single friend list, stored within the console's front-end firmware, to all online games.

Is this likely to be changed in a future system update? We're awaiting a reply from Nintendo UK but we seriously doubt it.

[philr359]

Sigh, Nintendo can be a bit stubborn sometimes.. friend codes suck!! they should seriously consider NOT using them.. still love the N though

[ICE]

thats understandable i guess.

[bmemike]

A better solution would be to rewrite their address book.

Once you have someone in your main address book, you should be able to then opt them in as a buddy for any game you load. You shouldn't have to re-add them since the user already is registered on your Wii.

This would not be a difficult system to implement and only allows you to play with people you've already claimed are your friends. And in the case of parent-regulated buddies, the parents have already deemed these contacts safe for their children - so there's no added risk and greater usability.

[Demolition49]

start using your head nintendo?

[jameshisaus]

Grrrrrrr!