Barry Levine, newsfactor
DGamer is the first online community developed just for players of Disney video games, and players interact through the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection and the DGamer Web site. The community will be available at no additional cost for owners of DS games from Disney, and it will launch internationally next year.
Unique 3-D Avatars
Graham Hopper, executive vice president and general manager of Disney Interactive Studios, said the community was "built around the vision to connect Disney video-game fans in a secure, fun environment." He added that it is the "the first integrated online community of its kind" to offer this service on multiple platforms.
Hopper also noted the importance to the Disney brand of creating "unique experiences" for its customers and for parents to "feel confident that the community is secure for their kids."
Using the community-technology platform of Disney, DGamer lets users create a unique 3-D avatar and a persistent profile. The avatar can be costumed from a variety of eyewear, hats, outfits and accessories, including, of course, costumes from a selection of Disney characters. These include Buzz Lightyear, Tinker Bell, and Mickey Mouse ears.
In addition to chatting and looking at others' profiles, users can also earn "honors" when they have completed various game-based missions. Honors can give users access to unlock special gear for their avatars, which also can be transferred between the DGamer Web site and the DGamer feature in DS games. The company gave the example of a player being able to unlock Prince Caspian character costumes.
Parents' Role
Disney also noted that parents are being encouraged to take an active role in the DGamer community. Using parental controls, they can indicate the level of interactivity that their kids should be able to have at their age.
For instance, there are three chat levels. The most restricted level is a predetermined list of words and phrases called "Speed Chat," with the other levels being a modified free-form called "Speed Chat Plus" that blocks inappropriate or suggestive phrases or words, and, finally, an Open Chat. Open Chat requires the user to exchange a True Friend Code outside the DGamer environment.
Mike Goodman, an analyst with industry research firm Yankee Group, noted that game publishers are becoming more active in community-building, as social gaming becomes a larger part of the overall experience.
JupiterResearch's Michael Gartenberg agreed, pointing out that publishers increasingly are looking to provide communities, even for free, as a way to capture attention and solidify their customer base.
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