The big three look to Net subscriptions for profits: "The three dominant game console makers -- Sony Corp., Nintendo Co and newcomer Microsoft Corp -- all plan to launch online services this year, allowing players around the planet to wage virtual war or slay digital dragons together through their television sets. Connecting to the Internet is about more than just fun and games, though. With a high-speed connection to consumers' homes, console makers could someday use their machines to sell all sorts of products and services."

After the increasing penetration of online subscriptions in the office and the den through PCs, will game consoles help content and service providers reach into the living room?