KUALA LUMPUR (Dec 16): Messaging, voice and video platform Viber announced a major expansion in its app today with the launch of Viber Games. 

In a statement Dec 15, Viber said this was its third major release in many months, following the addition of Mobile Video Calls and Viber Public Chats, as well as numerous other features. 

Viber said it had partnered with a number of leading game developers to bring unique gaming experiences to the platform featuring Viber characters and exclusive content. 

“Viber has partnered with a number of leading game developers to bring unique gaming experiences to the platform featuring Viber characters and exclusive content.

“Viber Games is now available in Belarus, Malaysia, Israel, Singapore and the Ukraine and will be rolled out to the rest of the world in a staggered release,” it said.

The company said the launch line-up features Viber Candy Mania and Viber Pop from leading mobile game network Storm8 and Wild Luck Casino from leading casual games developer, Playtika.

It said the games were built using “Viber Connect”, a new private API that allows users to sign in with their Viber ID to connect with their friends and contacts on Viber, send them gifts and brag about their achievements.

Additionally, it said users would be able to send game invites via Viber, and see what games their friends are currently playing. 

Viber said the games will be promoted via the Games section and will be free to download via Google Play and the App Store. 

Access to additional features will be available via in-app purchases, it said.

Viber CEO Talmon Marco said the company has been focusing on broadening the functionality of Viber and was excited to unveil Viber Games.

“This major expansion of our platform gives people another completely new way to connect with Viber. It’s an important step for us and we are looking forward to the response from our users,” said Marco.

Meanwhile, Storm8 Chief Strategy Officer Terence Fung said as a pioneering leader in mobile social games, the company was committed to partnering with companies that expand its reach and provide innovative player experiences.

“We’re delighted to be a launch partner for Viber Games, debuting two new Storm8 titles that bring to life Viber’s popular characters and offer a new level of social interaction among friends,” said Fung.