March 7^th, 2006 (2:05pm) - Nintendo’s wireless gaming service has hit an all-time gaming record of 1 million unique users, in less than four months in operation.

Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection lets Nintendo DS owners log on cost-free to compete or interact in a variety of games, from racing in Mario Kart DS to community-building in Animal Crossing: Wild World. The 1 millionth user was a player in Japan, who logged on to play Animal Crossing: Wild World.

"Players are embracing our model of a compelling, safe, easy-to-use wireless gaming service," says Reggie Fils-Aime, Nintendo of America’s executive vice president of sales & marketing. "Those 1 million users represent more than 27 million game sessions."

On March 20, two new Wi-Fi-enabled games arrive in the Americas to draw even more players to Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. Tetris DS brings a twist to the addictive classic puzzle game. Up to four players can compete against friends or strangers, near or far. Tetris DS features multiple modes themed with retro Nintendo characters and music.

Also launching March 20, Metroid Prime Hunters features competition using Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, but players get an added bonus: the ability to chat with one another before and after battles, using VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol). Players can use this Metroid chat feature to agree on match parameters and to relive their battle glories. This riveting first-person shooter lets players choose from a variety of characters and weapons, with extensive replay options.