RealNetworks snags Net gaming deals

RealNetworks signed deals with Activision, the Groove Alliance and SoliTaire Networks to publish PC and Internet games via the RealArcade system. RealArcade, which launched in May, is a free service that lets gamers find, play and manage their games as well as connect to Internet multiplayer game networks. More than 1.5 million copies of the software have been downloaded since the launch, RealNetworks said. More than 50 game developers and publishers have signed up to distribute their games through the service.

RealArcade also released four downloadable games: "Diamond Mine," published by Popcap Game; "Assimilation," by Small Rockets Entertainment; and "Claw" and "Get Medieval," both by Monolith.