Nintendo is pushing its Mii concept forward, adding elements that will let users become immersed in interactivity - in hopes of creating a social-networking community to rival the likes of MySpace.

A feature of Nintendo's Wii is an avatar module, known as Mii, that lets users create their own character. But TopTechNews reports that Nintendo is expanding the concept by creating a Mii channel later this year that will allow users to chat with, rate each other's Mii and otherwise interact. Nintendo will also let users play as their Mii in some games.

Nintendo says by adding social networking elements it can create a community around the concept of Mii. It also marks the latest move by the gaming company to expand the Wii from being just a gaming console to a content-delivery tool.

Gaming industry analyst Richard Doherty of Envisioneering Group is quoted as saying the move can pay off big for Nintendo: "Within a year, the Wii may be the most successful and valuable social-networking community on the Web."

"Nintendo is creating a framework for an open environment that will allow other developers to add value," Doherty said. "Interesting third-party solutions could link fans of TV shows, gamers sharing tips, even home-schoolers."