NetWits

NetWits was a multiplayer casual game distributed via the Microsoft Network in
1996. The game was designed to feel like an online version of a 1950s
gameshow, with five different easy-to-learn social games in which players
could chat and compete against each other for fun and prizes.

The host of NetWits was Vic Marvelous, an original character designed to give
the feeling of a classic game show host. Vic led players through each round of
play, giving verbal feedback and and a helping hand with the interface.

Each night of the week, contestants could log on to the Microsoft Network and
play a different NetWits game: Crosswords was a multiplayer word jumble; Push
Your Luck was a fast-paced maze game; Switcheroo was a social riddler; I
Challenge That was a dueling card game; and Top of the Mark was a slippery
strategy game.

As one of the first web games to feature integrated in-game sponsorship,
NetWits broke ground in terms of online business models. Sponsored by Expedia
during its first season, nightly prizes included a round trip ticket anywhere
in the U.S. from the online travel agency.

NetWits shipped with MSN 2.0 in the Fall of 1996 and was met with immediate
critical acclaim, including being named “Best of the Web” by Time Magazine in
1996.

NetWits