Virgin Games has announced a partnership with Games Domain International to offer a revolutionary digital distribution service to PC gamers.

Virgin Games and GDI plan to launch what they're calling a "unique gaming proposition, using break-through technology." The service will allow games to be delivered online using a proprietary streaming technology, apparently removing the necessity to download large files.

With digital distribution, the service claims to make it virtually impossible for piracy to begin, potentially saving content owners millions in lost revenue. Hopes are that publishers will release back catalogue titles, and also use the platform to launch new products. For the consumer several options will be available: games-on-demand rental, direct purchase, and skill-based multiplayer tournaments.

"This partnership will combine ground breaking technology with Virgin Group's marketing and strategic expertise to create a digital distribution and marketing service for PC games publishers - bringing both new revenue streams and new customers," said Simon Burridge, Chairman of Virgin Games.

The service is currently planned to launch in March 2007, and negotiations with major publishers are already underway.