Sega's Netlink and Directlink! (Version .69; Oct. 24, 2001)

0.1 Table of Contents:

1.1 Updates
1.2 Legal Stuff
1.3 Intro to FAQ

2.1 Netlink Intro
2.2 Game Players Article on Netlink
2.3 List of Netlink Games
2.4 Codes for Netlink Games
2.5 List of players
2.6 Comparison/Review
2.7 Links for Netlink

3.1 DirectLink Intro
3.2 List of DirectLink Games

4.1 Credits
4.2 Side Notes




1.1 Updates:

Version .59; Sept. 4, 2001. First release of FAQ, really a pretty basic copy
which was thrown together.

Version .61; Sept. 11, 2001. Finally a copy of the FAQ worth posting. 
Paragraphs were made out of my "longer" sections.  A bit more info was added,
as well as another Netlinker.  Fixed a few spelling mistakes.  Added Side Notes
and Updates.  On a more important note, I wish, and hope that all the people
affect by these terrible attacks are doing well.

Version .63; Sept. 23, 2001.  A new Game Players article (see 2.2) transcribed
by someone at SegaFans (http://www.classicgaming.com/saturn/) has been added. 
I have also added a few side notes, and corrected a few more spelling/grammer
problems.

Version .67; Oct. 03, 2001.  Preperations for Reviews and/or comparisons of
Netlink games.  Codes section, with codes for all games known to support the
Netlink.  Added a link to the Netlink Link section.  Oh, and 7 days till my
B-day =)!

Version .69; Oct. 24, 2001.  My B-day has come and gone.....  I'm still waiting
for a local friend to get a Netlink so I can test Netlink games.....  However,
I've put up some comparisons.....  Some other small additions have been made,
and another Netlinker added!

1.2 Legal Stuff:

Legal stuff..... YUCK!  Well I guess it has to be done....  Please do not edit
any of this FAQ, as since it is against the creator's wishes (and copyright).  
I am not responsible for any of these viruses that you could get off this FAQ
(yeah right, like a text file, by itself carries viruses! =P).  If this FAQ
causes any damage to you or your computer, I am not responsible.  Basically,
I'm not liable for the possible damage this FAQ could do to you, your computer,
your dog, or anyone or thing.  Please do enjoy these wonderful things, and
don't abuse them. If you have any questions, please feel free to E-mail me at:
noobsa44[at]aol.com.  No Spam please.

OK, now that that is done... On with the show! =)

1.3 Intro to FAQ:

This FAQ simply describes the function of the Netlink and Directlink (or
whatever it is called; if you know the official name, please let me know), and
what games are able to take advantage of their features.

2.1 Netlink Intro:

Netlink-
     The Netlink was originally a 400 dollar piece of hardware (it included a
Saturn, so it was less than $400) that allowed any and all Saturn users to get
online with the Saturn.  Unfortunately, my knowledge about the Netlink is
limited, but I do recall that there was also a Netlink package that included
Virtua On (Netlink Edition) and Sega Rally Champ. Plus (Netlink Edition).  At
the same time, we also saw a Netlink package which JUST included Netlink
software, which started out at $200 and then went down to 99 dollars.  If there
were any other packages available, please let me know!!
     While the Netlink was not the first piece of hardware to allow American
gamers to get online (or at least play against others online/directdial*), it
was the first to allow players to bring their own ISP.  While Sega did have a
ISP they recommended (Concentric, I think), similar to what Sega did with the
Dreamcast, they did allow you to choose any ISP that was within their technical
specifications.  The Netlink was capable of connecting at a 28.8 connection,
which at the time was pretty good (I think computers were just starting to use
33.6 connections).
     The Netlink never did that well since it was to much money, lacked in the
number of system users (as in people who own a Saturn, which was under 5
million), and had few games that use it.  In Japan it didn't do much better
since the Japanese pay long distance charges to just go on the internet (or at
least that is what I have read...  If you have more info on the Netlink in
Japan, please send it my way!).  Europe never got the Netlink, especially since
Europe was the weakest Saturn market.  Even so, it had quite a few users in its
heyday, and had 5 games that used it in America.  For more info on the Netlink,
see planetweb (the maker of the Netlink's Log on software) here-
http://www.planetweb.com/netlink/faq.html

* Note that you could not play against others online, but only by "calling"
them with your Netlink, which meant long-distance bills.  However, to meet
players to play against, you could get online and chat with them (VIA Internet
Relay Chat [IRC]).

2.2 Game Players Article on Netlink:

Game Players
Unknown issue (E3 issue of '96)*

*Note from Noob: AUGUST 1996 [Issue 87] Page 15.

Sega's Internet Intervention

Sega prepares new gaming lane for information highway

As the internet, and it's user base, continues to grow at an alarming
rate, it seems hard to believe that online gaming has not become more
popular tan it has. There are, of course, technical issues such as
latency problems and unreliable connections to be considered when
questoning the general lack of gaming oppurtunities on the Net.
However, it's also important to note that gaming companies have yet
to really devote themselves to the movement in any significant
fasion. That is, until now.

At this year's E3 show in Los Angeles, Sega debuted the NetLink, a
$200 hardware unit for use exclusively with the Sega Saturn. The unit
enables users to get on the Internet and surf the all-important World
Wide Web. What's most significant about the technology as is stands
today, is that not only can a user now gain full access to the
Internet for a total hardware price of less than $400 (a trick
several Silicon Valley companies have been hard at work to achieve),
but the Sega NetLink also brings hte experience of the internet out
of the office and into the living room by utilizing the television as
opposed to the computer screen (another goal for several Silicon
Valley companies).

What is perhaps most exciting about NetLink for gamers, however, is
the possibility of first-class networked gaming. The idea of hooking
into the Internet via NetLink and playing seven unseen competitors
spread out across he globe in a game of Daytona is a thrilling
prospect, to say the least. At the time of the show there were
already more than 12 titles in development and due before Christmas
'96 for use with the system, including several from third party
developers, such as Westwood's Command & Conquer***. Sega will also be
offering titles for networked play, such as the soon-to-be-released
Baku Baku.**

While the future of on-line gaming is yet to be set in stone, Sega's
NetLink is built to accommodate several different possibilities.
Whatever becomes of on-line gaming, it's certain that Sega will
have a say in the matter. As for now, surfing the web on your
television with a Saturn and 28.8 NetLink is sure to be a great
experience for Internet novices and pros alike. Of course,
the experience becomes that much more exciting when great gaming
experiences become available for play later this year. Also soon
to be available for use with the Sega Saturn and NetLink are the
Sega mouse and keyboard designed to accentuate the user's Internet
experience. Neither peripheral will be necessary as the system's
built-in web browser was designed to work with the standard Saturn
controller, but some users may find the keyboard and mouse a more
comfortable way to navigate their on-line use.

[Following is a caption by a picture of a Saturn with a NetLink in.]
With its 28.8 modem and ability to bring affordable Internet service
into the living room, the NetLink from Sega is sure to get the
attention of many interested Net Surfers.

Noob's Comments:

** Strangly enough, they review Baku Baku in the same issue (page 69),
but don't mention a single thing about it working (or not working) with
the Netlink.  Perhaps they were think of the Directlink, however, it
would seem unlikly they would make that big of a mistake... And as far as I
know, Baku Baku doesn't work with the Directlink.

*** As far as I know Command & Conquer doesn't work with the Netlink.

2.3 List of Netlink Games:

USA-

Daytona CCE - Netlink Edition *
Duke Nukem 3D
Bomberman
Virtua On - Netlink Edition**
Sega Rally Champ. Plus- Netlink Edition**
Netlink Log on Software 1.0(?)/2.0/3.0/4.x **

* Daytona was and is EXTREMELY RARE since it was only offered on Sega's
website.  It is probably the most valuable of all the Netlink games.

** Came in a package with the Netlink.

Japan-

Wachenroder
Daytona CCE - Netlink Edition***

*** I have sorta confirmed (One person told me...) that Daytona was released
for the Netlink in Japan, however I don't know if it is called the same thing
as it was in the USA.

All others are unknown.  Again, if you have ANY information, PLEASE CONTACT
ME!!!

2.4 Codes for Netlink Games:

Bomberman:

*Bonus Battle Game Characters
For two new battle game characters, hold L + R on the first screen that appears
when you enter Battle Mode. The characters are Yuna, a very fast girl with Bomb
Boot and Manto, a bear with Power Glove.

*Change Background
In battle mode you can change the background or environment (rain, etc.) by
holding X+Y+Z while selecting a stage. While still holding these buttons, press
UP or DOWN to change the background.

*Clean Pause
To eliminate the PAUSED message, pause the game then press X+Y+Z.

*Dino Trick
If you are trapped and you have a dino hold L and R (make sure that you're not
in a position where you will jump off your dino) and your dinosaur shouldn't be
destroyed instead of you. It doesn't always work, but it's better than dying.

*Easy Win in the Soccer Stadium
Kick a bomb into the goal and get out of the way fast cause it cause explosions
clear across the field if all the blocks are blown up.

*Extra Lives
For 3 extra lives in the Normal Game, play between 10:00am and 11:00am or set
your Saturn's clock to that time.

*How Power-ups work
Here are all the power-ups, what they do, and what ones overwrite others:
KICK BOMB: allows you to kick your bomb, overwrites: bomb pass
BOMB PASS: Allows you to walk over bombs unharmed, eases the ability to throw
bombs (Power Glove), overwrites: kick bomb
POWER BOMB: (STRONGEST BOMB) makes your first bomb in any series (not
constantly lasting) the POWER BOMB! overwrites: penetrator, rubber bomb, remote
bomb
RUBBER BOMB: gives you bouncing bombs with RUBBER coatings that go mad when
kicked (Kick Bomb, Blue Dinosaur) or thrown (Beetle Robot, Power Glove)
overwrites: power bomb, penetrator, remote bomb
PENETRATOR: the spiked bomb that can plow through any number of soft blocks and
loose items at a time. WATCH WHERE YOU PUT THIS THING!!! overwrites: power
bomb, rubber bomb, remote bomb
REMOTE BOMB: detonates WHEN YOU WANT! overwrites: power bomb, rubber bomb,
penetrator

*Level Select
At the title screen, enter one of the sequences below to start on the desired
level:

Level  Code
1      L, R, A, UPPER-LEFT
2      L, R, B, UPPER-LEFT
3      L, R, C, UPPER-RIGHT
4      L, R, X, UPPER-RIGHT
5      L, R, Y, UP

Level  Code
1      L + R, UPPER-LEFT + A
2      L + R, UPPER-LEFT + B
3      L + R, UPPER-RIGHT + C
4      L + R, UPPER-RIGHT + X
5      L + R, UP + Y

****It is unknown to me which VERSION of these last two codes is correct...... 
could someone please confirm one of them?****

*Never Die, Dinosaur Method
Get a dinosaur(any kind). If you get trapped, press L+R right before the bomb
blows up and you should stay alive with your dinosaur in good condition.

*Powered-Up Level Select
To start on any level with 10 bombs and all power ups, enter one of the codes
below. Enter these on the title screen while the Bombermen are dancing.

*Slot Machine Cactus
In Stages 1 & 3 in the Wild West World, there will be a sleeping cactus. Bother
it on all four sides (most preferably 1 side at a time) and you'll get 1 minute
of Slot Machine Fun!!! There is no price to play, but the rewards are different
depending on the stage.:

Stage 1: Firepower, Power Glove, Remote Glove
Stage 3: Extra Bomb, Skates, Heart
Bomb the buttons to push 'em. You'll need 3 of each picture to get 1 item of
the same illustrarion

*View Normal Game Ending
Hold L + R and press Down + Z while the Bombermen are dancing on the title
screen.

Daytona CCE - Netlink Edition**:

*No Enemy Cars in NetLink Mode-
If you're playing with a NetLink, press X + L when selecting courses to
eliminate the computer controlled cars.

*Change Time of Day
When the screen says, "Gentlemen, Start Your Engines" hold X for sunrise, Y for
starlight, Z for hazy, and X+Y for sunset.

Duke Nukem 3D:

*All Weapons
Pause the game and press Z, X, X, Z, Y, Z, Y, X, Y.

*Bonus Game
To access the hidden sequel to DEATH TANK, DEATH TANK ZWEI, all you need is to
have saved data from QUAKE. This will automatically open up the option to play
the secret game. Otherwise, it can be accessed by beating the game after
destroying ALL the toilets, urinals, etc. found in the game.

*Cheat Code Entry Screen
At the main menu, hold X, Y and Z for about 10 seconds. If you did it right the
words "Input Info On" will appear on the bottom of the screen.
When you begin to play you should see some hexidecimal-looking code at the very
top of the screen. Depending on what buttons you press the code will change
it's hex numbers and/or letters.

*Display Coordinates
At the title screen, simultaneously press and hold X, Y, Z, L, and R until the
words "INPUT INFO ON" appear at the bottom of the screen. When you start a game
the programming coordinates will be shown at the top of the screen.

*God Mode
Pause the game and press X, Z, Z, X, Y, X, Y, Z, Y.

*Level Select
At the MAIN MENU screen press X, Y, Z, Z, Y, X, Y, Z, Y.

*No Monsters
At the SKILL LEVEL screen press Z, Z, X, X, Y, X, Y, X, Z.

*Tiny Duke
Set the difficulty level on "Damn I'm Good". Enter the code for "all weapons"
(the code for "god mode" helps also). Find an enemy. Shoot him with the
shrinker. Without stomping him, shoot him with the handgun, shotgun, or
chaingun until he dies, which is difficult, but possible. Wait a while and he
will come back to life, only he will be tiny. To make them big again shoot them
a second time with the shrinker. Enjoy.

*Turok-style Controls
During a game press Start to pause the carnage. Now enter Y, Y, Z, Z, X, X, Y,
X, Z. A message and a new controller discription will appear. To change back to
standard control re-enter the code.

NOTE: The code must be re-entered at the beginning of a new level.

Sega Rally Champ. Plus- Netlink Edition**:

*No On-screen Indicators
Go to "Arcade" mode, choose "Championship" by pressing button A. Next, select a
car by pressing and holding X+A until the race begins. You should notice that
all the game displays have disappeared.

Virtua On - Netlink Edition**:

Help needed.....  HOW DO YOU USE THE COLOR CHANGING OPTION IN A NORMAL
(NON-NETLINK) GAME?????

Wachenroder:

No known codes...



**Note that the Netlink Edition games may have more codes, but they are both
for the 'normal' and netlink editions, and therefore will not be listed here. 
You can however get the other codes by going to http://codes.ign.com/.

2.5 List of players:

key:
DN   = Duke Nukem
VO   = Virtua On
SRC  = Sega Rally Championship
DUC  = Daytona USA CCE
BM   = Bomberman
WA   = Wachenroder
[at] = @


Phone #'s prefix:    E-mail address:           Game's owned:
208                  Noobsa44[at]aol.com          DN*, VO, SRC, DUC
301                  billkwando[at]yahoo.com      VO, ???
740                  dscully_33[at]hotmail.com    VO, SRC

*Sadly Duke Nukem is too scratched to play a single player game... but it MAY
be able to play Netlink games...

**I have found a list of Netlinkers which I have E-mailed, so watch this
section grow (hopefully)!**

Do you wish to add yourself to the list of players in this FAQ?  Simply E-mail
me with your area code, E-mail that you wish me to use, and list of games you
have.  My E-mail address is: Noobsa44[at]aol.com.

2.6 Comparison/Review:

*Virtua On (Comparison):

As of current writting, I've yet to try a Netlink game (and yet I'm the only
one to make a Netlink FAQ!), however I can safely compare the normal version of
VO to the Netlink edition.

Actually there is little I can compare, since there are only 3 major
differences....

1. You can change the color of your fighter, via a pallete swapper.  Sadly, as
far as I can tell, this ONLY works durning Netlink games...

2. The CD and title screen state that it is a Netlink game.  Also, while I'm
not sure, I think that the save game maybe different.

3. If you put in a Netlink into your Saturn it will give you three options,
start a normal game.... play while waiting for the call and dial up to play
against another person.  Of course the normal version doesn't have any of those
options, with or without a Netlink in the system.

*Duke Nukem 3D:

I can't make a review of DK 3D, until I own it...

*Sega Rally Championship:

*coming soon*

*Daytona USA CCE:

So far the only major differences I have found are the facts that you can play
the game over the phone and you can [via a code; see: 2.4 Codes for Netlink
Games] play the game at different times of the day.
*MORE coming soon*

*Bomberman:

I can't make a review of Bomberman, until I own it...

*Wachenroder:

I can't make a review of Wachenroder, until I own it...

2.7 Links for Netlink:

http://www.geocities.com/netlink96/index.html
http://www.planetweb.com/netlink/
http://codes.ign.com/
http://www.satonline.fr.st/ (VO- Netlink Edition review coming soon.....)

If you have a link you wish to add, send it to me at: Noobsa44[at]aol.com

3.1 DirectLink Intro:

DirectLink (aka Link Cable):
     The DirectLink is simply a little device that allows two Saturns to
connect to each other.  However, the problem with it is that you also need two
TVs and two of the same games.  So once you have two of everything, you can
connect the two Saturns to play a multi-player game.  So the question is, "Why
would you do that when you can have everything on one TV?"  Well that is
simple...  You don't want the other player to know what you're doing or where
you're doing it.  For example, say your playing Hexen (a game that has a
DirectLink feature, VIA a debug menu!), and your friend know the level like the
back of his hand.  So your friend simply watches the screen, and follows you,
and kicks your butt!  Well, IF you have two Saturns, two TVs and two copies of
Hexen, you can play on separate screens (which means a bigger screen for you!!)
and preventing your friend from "cheating."  Oh, and it also feels more PC
like, if your a PC gamer....

3.2 List of DirectLink Games:

USA/Europe-

Doom (unconfirmed, and does not work with European copies)
Virtua On (completely UNCONFIRMED, note if you wish to confirm this game,
please state if you're using Netlink versions or normal versions of the game)
Hexen (accessed through debug menu; Slightly Buggy)
**I have heard rumors that Duke Nukem OR Quake may have this feature**

Japan-

Gebockers
Gun Griffon 2
Steeldom
I am unsure if any other games have this feature....  Anyone know?

4.1 Credits:

Created and maintained by: Noobsa44[at]aol.com
Special Thanks to:
* Marlin Bates for sending a copy of Daytona CCE-Netlink Edition!
* John Hokanson Jr. for compiling the Sega Saturn FAQ (where I got some
DirectLink info).
* The People at SegaFans (http://www.classicgaming.com/saturn/) for their
transcription of the Game Players article!
* SegaSages (aka IGN codes; http://codes.ign.com/) for the game codes.
* Everyone who has this FAQ on their site, while not editing it! =)
* Anyone who reads the credits (or this FAQ for that matter).
* Anyone else I forgot to mention!


4.2 Side Notes:

*Just as a quick side note, you can visit my webpage which (will soon) have a
archived copy of this FAQ (It will be in the random stuff section).  Its URL
is....  http://www.geocities.com/thelastjustcause/

*Noob has only had a Netlink for only a few weeks (as of the ninth of Sept.,
2001; when I got my Netlink), and started writing this FAQ BEFORE he had a
Netlink.  Noob doesn't have a DirectLink =(.  If you wish to donate a
DirectLink, feel free to E-mail me about your possible donation! =)

* I also work on a site called Saturn Online, which will soon include a review
of Virtua On: Netlink edition!  The URL is: http://www.satonline.fr.st/
