PlayFirst signs deal with Internet distributors

PlayFirst is teaming up with Shockwave.com, MSN Games, RealArcade, Trymedia Systems, and Big Fish Games to expand worldwide distribution of its downloadable PC games, officials announced today.

"PlayFirst is committed to securing the broadest possible distribution for our games, and we are thrilled to be working with these Internet brands," said John Welch, president and CEO of PlayFirst. "The response from these partners validates our focus on popular games that appeal to a mass market audience of both new and seasoned game players."

The game publisher launched its product line late last year. Welch cofounded PlayFirst to bring games to underserved markets, including women over 35, families, and seniors.

In PlayFirst's Diner Dash, players assume the role of Flo, a former stock broker who quits her day job and transforms a diner into a five-star restaurant. Subway Scramble puts players in control of subway systems in New York, London, Paris, and Seoul. In Spellagories, players save a village from evil wizards by unscrambling words.

All three games are available online for trial and purchase at Shockwave.com, Trygames, and others. In addition to creating its own games, the firm publishes third-party titles from developers like GameLab (Subway Scramble) and Mind Control Software (Spellagories). For more on PlayFirst, see our interview with John Welch or visit the PlayFirst site.