Last Minute Productions

WildTangent has already proven that it has the capacity to capture the casual gaming market with titles such as Diner Dash and even the more dedicated masses with hits like Runescape and now they’re making a grab for the “enthusiast gamer” by pairing with Sierra Online, THQ and other top tier publishers to create what they describe as a PC gaming console that will allow users to download and play game-pad compatible, AAA console and PC titles for the sole cost of viewing an ad before each gaming session. Beginning April 12^th The Orb will be available for free download and by the end of 2008 WildTangent plans for The Orb to come preinstalled on all new computers from major companies including HP, Gateway and Toshiba.

According to Alex St. John, CEO of WildTangent, “The WildTangent Orb turns any modern PC into a full-featured game console more powerful than any next generation game console including the Microsoft XBOX 360, Sony PS3 or Nintendo Wii… Now enthusiast gamers can download and play popular console games they love on the most ubiquitous gaming device available today: the PC.”

What is most interesting about this service is its implications for the future of the industry. If this model works and is backed up by the success of projects such as EA’s Battlefield Heroes it may begin a new revolution in online business strategy for game distribution. The piracy of games in the PC realm is going to force publishers to consider other tactics than making a game that takes two weeks to appear on bittorrent instead of one and this may just be one valid solution.

[Via CNN]