Online game service gets fresh titles, ad-supported free play

Stephen Withers
Wednesday, 02 May 2007 12:55

Your IT - Home IT

GameTap, the Turner Broadcasting System owned all-you-can-eat game service is overhauling its business model by offering fresher titles plus a limited roster of ad-supported games available at no charge.

GameTap currently offers Windows users over 850 games for $US9.95 per month, but they are all at least two years old. The new arrangements will see the arrival of games either simultaneously or within six to 12 months of their retail release.

The first game to arrive under the new arrangements will be Laura Croft Tomb Raider: Anniversary, which will be available on GameTap and in stores on June 5.

A few days before that, GameSpot will debut its new free-play service, which will be supported by video ads presented before the games begin or banner ads alongside the play. Between 30 and 60 games will be offered at any one time. Players will be restricted to E (everyone) and T (teen) rated games unless they opt for free registration.

Games slated for the free service include Bust-A-Move, Joust, Laura Croft Tomb Raider: Legend, Metal Slug, Rampage, and Space Invaders.