Inside Social Games

As hi5 continues down the path to “social entertainment,” the company has been working hard to increase the quality and quantity of games on the hi5 Platform. The latest partner to announce support is SmallWorlds, the New Zealand-based developer of a leading web-based, 3D virtual world.

With the partnership, SmallWorlds is now integrated with the hi5’s Games channel, which claims 60 million users. Other OpenSocial partners such as RockYou and Playdom are also on the portal.

“We are dedicated to fostering social engagement for our global audience,” says Anil Dharni, Vice President of Products at hi5.

Within the SmallWorlds virtual world, players create their own custom avatar, decorate their rooms, own pets, and socialize with others online by playing games, watching videos, or listening to music.

Players can also utilize SmallWorld’s universal virtual currency. With it, they can purchase various items such as monthly collectibles, new clothing, and furniture to personalize their rooms.

“Through this partnership, we are able to provide the hi5 community with valuable, entertaining content and a seamless experience when purchasing premium items in SmallWorlds using their hi5 Coins,” says Ted Tagami, Vice President of Business Development for SmallWorlds.

According to the official announcement, the two companies are working together on a rev-share basis.