MUMBAI: Vh1 has announced the launch of Vh1 Games the online gaming destination for gamers, puzzle experts, and pop culture fans. For this initiative, Vh1 has teamed up with the game developer and distributor Big Fish Games and the interactive entertainment software publisher and developer Midway.

Big Fish Games has been tapped for their expertise in the downloadable game market, game publishing, and merchandising. Through its licensing agreement with Vh1, Midway is providing authentic arcade classic games to the hub.

"We have created a gaming site that extends the Vh1 brand by playing off of Vh1's distinct programming," said Vh1 VP digital media Tina Imm. "Our original games and 'Vh1 Classic Arcade' give our viewers and the enormous numbers of casual online gamers a great mix of old and new games, editorial content, and industry news."

In addition to a broad collection of word games, action games and puzzles, the Vh1 Games hub offers original games from Vh1, top downloadable games, and popular classic arcade games from the 70's, 80's and 90's that are part of Vh1's on-air and broadband programming.

Vh1 Games also provides gaming news and commentary through its dedicated blog, 'Vh1 Game Break'. Vh1 Games introduces the 'Vh1 Classic Arcade'-- a collection of authentic online versions of old-school arcade classics like Spy Hunter, Joust, Defender, and Rampage.

In the classic arcade section of the site, the games will be packaged together with editorial content relevant to the time when these games were originally released.

Vh1 Games also offers original games based on Vh1's hit TV shows and pop culture, as well as classic-inspired games including Vh1's new mini-game compilation, The Arcade Strikes Back. Vh1's original games include titles such as Escape the Paparazzi, Sudoku Fortunes and I Love Toys.

Players can download one hour trials of the games or purchase the full versions for $19.99.