CBS channel to offer downloadable games

CBS-owned cable TV channel Showtime is launching a new company titled On Broadband to offer games-on-demand that can be downloaded or played online.

The new service is being launched in co-operation with Broadband Libraries, an edutainment publisher, and will target cable TV networks and DSL providers. It's due to launch in the second quarter of 2007.

Some of the games on offer will be free, while others will be obtainable through one-time payments or a subscription fee. The service will also generate revenues through advertising and broadband companies.

"While it might not seem like a natural, when you think about it, it makes a lot of sense for Showtime," said Showtime Networks boss Matthew Blank.

"We are used to dealing with a premium customer. We have the marketing and promotional expertise to be in those businesses."