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.