Netlink works by dialing directly to someone else's netlink....your dialing the person's home phone number in other words. The only charge is that of long distance if you have to pay for long distance. Also digital phone line users tend to have more problems them good ol' analog phone users.
I've played via NetLink a few times and it really does work pretty slick. Latency on Sega Rally wasn't all that bad and only popped up a few times here and there. The between game chats are cool too. It really was an idea before its time and way underutilized. My NetLink was my only access to the internet for years until I finally got a home computer.
Can every 2-players game be played over the netlink or only certain compatible games??? Also, is it compatible with Japanese games if both Saturns can play import??? Sorry, I am a bit late to the party with the Saturn like most people who chose PS1 over it.