E-Amusement

e-AMUSEMENT

Current e-AMUSEMENT Pass design
Developer	Konami
Type	Arcade video game network system
Launch date	2003
Platform	Arcade video game
Status	Active
Website	Official website (Japanese)

e-AMUSEMENT is an online service operated by Konami, used primarily for online functionality on its arcade video games. The system is used primarily to save progress and unlockable content between games, participate in internet high score lists, access other exclusive features depending on the game, and access the Paseli digital currency service.

The system uses online user accounts tied to a contactless smart card system called the "e-AMUSEMENT PASS". Users log in to an e-AMUSEMENT enabled game by holding their pass up to the card reader and using a PIN.

The system is similar to parts of the functionality of the rival Taito NESYS and SEGA ALL.Net systems.

Magnetic cards

Prior to 2006, e-AMUSEMENT used magnetic stripe cards called Entry Passes that were sold separately for each game using the platform, either from an arcade desk or through a vending machine. Each card held data for one player, and typically came in 5 designs specific to the game (usually featuring character artwork). "Special" cards were also distributed from time to time, often alongside the console versions of certain games; these cards could sometimes be used to unlock special content in their respective game.

In 2006, Konami began to phase out the original magnetic card system in favor of the e-AMUSEMENT PASS; a contactless smartcard that works across all games that were upgraded to use the new system. The new cards also use a 4-digit PIN for security. In event the pass is lost, its existing data can be transferred over to a new pass through Konami's website. The pass can also be linked to a mobile phone "Konami NetDX" account, allowing players to access their scores and other data on their mobile phone. On some games, customization of the game can also be done through the NetDX system.