Mac gamers jealous of the ability of PC users to buy games without any physical ownership can now join in the fun. While gamers on the PC have been able to utilize services like Valve Software’s Steam and Real Network’s RealArcade, until now there has not been an equivalent service for the Mac. Long time Windows game port factory Aspyr has announced the Gamerhood, a direct download service for the Macintosh. Aspyr’s press release suggests that software from casual games to the top of the line offerings will be made available for download. Parents will probably welcome the ability to lock out games based on ESRB ratings. There will also be some convenience gained by the ability to run games without the physical media. However, if games require network authentication when run, this could make times without Internet connectivity frustrating. Aspyr promises further details in the next few months, so it will be interesting to see how this all plays out.

Full Press Release after the jump.

AUSTIN, Texas—(BUSINESS WIRE)—July 10, 2006—Aspyr Media, Inc. today announced the development of a new game application, The Gamerhood, that will allow a user to purchase and download a game directly to their Macintosh using a standard Internet connection. A wide range of Mac games, from very casual titles to some of Aspyr’s AAA titles, will be made available through The Gamerhood.

Over the next few months, Aspyr will release more specific information on The Gamerhood’s capabilities and a list of titles, which will be immediately available upon the application’s launch. A broad range of features already being implemented in The Gamerhood are listed below.

Aspyr’s The Gamerhood Features

—Purchase games and download them online

—Play games without physical CD/DVD media

—Check user compatibility by comparing machine’s hardware against a game’s minimum system requirements before purchase

—Alert users to current Aspyr projects and new games

—Allow users to register games online

—Alert users to game updates and provide installs for updates

—Provide a user-friendly interface and convenient way to organize personal gaming catalogue

—Allow parents to restrict game play and online game store material based on ESRB ratings

—Provide users opportunity to take advantage of special offers

Downloading The Gamerhood will be free to all Mac users. Look for more details about The Gamerhood from Aspyr as we approach the Fall 2006 launch date.

About Aspyr Media, Inc.

Aspyr Media, Inc. is a leading game publisher that creates, packages and delivers fun to millions around the world. Hailing from Austin, Texas USA, Aspyr strives relentlessly to ensure a quality experience for consumers and industry partners.

To fall deeper in love with Aspyr and their amazing line of products, visit http://www.aspyr.com and see just how much fun you can legally have.

Contacts
Aspyr Media, Inc., Austin
Karri Scott, 512-879-5927
karri@aspyr.com