Struggling social network Hi5 has launched a downloadable games portal in conjunction with *RealNetworks*, adding over 1,500 new titles to the games section it built out earlier this year. These aren’t just casual games; the roster includes best-sellers like GTA: IV and Gears of War, the majority of which will be for purchase only.
This fits right in line with Hi5’s recent push to bulk up its virtual goods platform through a deal with Mochi Media — as the social network is trying to generate a greater proportion of its revenue from members, as opposed to advertisers. Two months ago it brought in Bill Gossman — formerly executive in residence at its biggest investor, Mohr Davidow Ventures — to help lead the shift in business models as CEO. Release.

{"source":"https:\/\/gigaom.com\/2009\/07\/14\/419-hi5-adds-another-revenue-stream-downloadable-games-from-realnetworks\/wijax\/49e8740702c6da9341d50357217fb629","varname":"wijax_9b23b88eac11e4c3f7df6616d9a80f40","title_element":"header","title_class":"widget-title","title_before":"%3Cheader%20class%3D%22widget-title%22%3E","title_after":"%3C%2Fheader%3E"}