The darling of the current gaming scene, Ouya, had some drama today when it was originally reported that the diminutive and open Android-based gaming console would not have online multiplayer functionality on launch, either for the initial distribution to Kickstarter backers, or even the retail launch, scheduled for June.

The updated reports, though, are now saying that there will, indeed, be online multiplayer included in shipping Ouya devices, just that it hasn’t been implemented by any developers for the tiny boxes as yet.

“We will definitely be supporting online multiplayer — developers just need to build in the functionality,” a representative told The Verge today. The PR spokesperson then continued, saying that it was online chat, friends lists, and achievements wouldn’t be available until after launch.

The $99 Android-powered gaming console should ship within the next couple of weeks to Kickstarter backers, and will also support local multiplayer for games that call for it. Additional controllers will run you $50, though, so you better want to play on the couch with your bros real bad.

The Ouya platform, while open and running Android games on a Tegra 3 chip, will also include a screening process to keep out the pornography and copyright violations, and an authentication system to keep folks from pirating games.

The Kickstarter project, begun with a goal of $950,000, received over eight million dollars in pledges. Looks like Android has beaten iOS to the television, wot?

• SourceThe Verge