Thanks for the reply. I don't your knowledge of Sega arcade games, but do me a favor...when you get a chance please take a look at this thread and scroll down to what "It's In the Game" has to say...

http://ga.gamesquad.net/showthread.php?s=&threadid=47698

Also, you say it was a feature in the Japan. But take a look at the flyer. it states...

"Features a new internet tournament system(USA only).
Allows you to link up the Model 3 board to a PC and see who the number one ranked U.S. player is via the internet."

Hmm, the mystery continues...