Per the Press Release:
Microsoft Corp. is proud to announce that “Catan Online,” the online, multiplayer subscription version of “The Settlers of Catan,” is now available exclusively at MSN® Games (http://www.games.msn.com). With MSN Games’ base of 30 million registered users worldwide, more people than ever will have access to this global gaming phenomenon.
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The rich, multiplayer game embodies the beauty and elegantly interactive features of the original “The Settlers of Catan” while offering special new features, including a variety of gameplay modes in a trusted play environment. Players can choose Quick Match to be paired with players of similar caliber, play solo against the computer, or choose Invite a Friend to play against their MSN Messenger friends. Subscription fees for the multiplayer version are $29.99 (U.S.) per year or $4.99 per month.“Catan Online” is building on the success of “Catan: The Computer Game,” the premium single-player downloadable version of “The Settlers of Catan,” which has been one of MSN Games’ top 20 most popular downloads since its February launch. Another MSN Games exclusive, “Catan: The Computer Game” offers nine unique options for difficulty and play style, allowing players to truly customize their game. The retail price is $29.95. More information can be found on the “Catan Online” Web site at http://www.catanonline.com.
Yet another side of MSN.