TOKYO--Sega will launch a community-based Web service in Japan called Sega Link, the company announced today. Tentatively planned for this spring, the site promises a variety of communication tools, plus an expansive library of games for members.

　　Registered users can create a personal page, which features a blog and a photo gallery. Users can customize their pages with avatars, skins, and links to other members. Sega Link will also offer forums and chat rooms where members can discuss games and other topics.

　　Sega plans to offer a vast collection of games, split into three categories: Simple Games, Sega Classic, and Link Collection on Sega Link. Simple Games will feature blackjack, backgammon, mahjong, baccarat, and others that members can play against one another for free. The Sega Classic section will offer PC ports of early Sega Genesis titles like Echo the Dolphin and Golden Axe. About 20 Sega Classic games will be ready at launch, but more than 100 will be available in the future. The Link Collection area lets Sega link users play online-enabled Windows games, such as The Typing of the Dead 2004, Virtua Fighter 2, Virtual On, Derby Owner's Club Online, and Phantasy Star Online Blue Burst.

　　Members of Sega Link will need to pay for games and some content and services, like avatar costumes, personal-page skins, and fortune-telling. Prices are likely to range from 30 to 1,000 yen ($0.28 to $9.45). Precise costs will be finalized after the beta-testing phase. The beta for Sega Link begins February 17, and Sega is currently recruiting 5,000 testers at the service's site. The testing period ends March 9, and the site is expected to open shortly after that.

　　Sega president Hisao Oguchi said he hopes to see Sega Link become famous for its entertainment content, drawing a comparison to Yahoo's reputation as an information portal. Sega's goal is to draw 1 million registered users in its first year.