• by Shankar Gupta , August 11, 2006

Hoping to promote its fiber-optic broadband network, Verizon has released the beta version of a free online service that allows users to participate in and organize games that can be played over a local area network.

The beta service, PlayLinc, works with AOL's instant messaging services--AOL's Open AIM program--to enable users to message each other or voice chat. PlayLinc is available for a free download, and will be ad-supported, said a spokeswoman for Verizon.

The company will promote its fiber-optic network, mobile phones and phone service on the PlayLinc.com site and on the program itself. Eventually, Verizon also will monetize the service by selling game downloads.

The service is optimized for the Verizon fiber-optic broadband network, and runs fastest when players have subscribed with Verizon. The PlayLinc client was created by a partnership between software firm Super Computer International and AOL. Verizon acquired a stake in Super Computer International in May.

The service is similar to Xfire, an online messaging and game matchmaking service, which was purchased in April by Viacom for $102 million.