Verizon announced that you can now go to games.verizon.com to download PlayLinc, a free instant messenger that allows you to launch private game servers for free, as well as host any LAN game on your own system. The messenger also uses server-based VOIP, so when you launch your a voice server automatically fires up with it.

Jason Baker of leading e-sports online news site, GotFrag, gives PlayLinc a rave review, writing, “This has to be the most useful product for gamers since the invention of the mouse.” He added, “PlayLinc is the perfect solution for gamers wanting to control their game experience without paying a lot of money for game servers and voice servers. It is easy to use and built by guys who have set the standard for back-end server software in the gaming industry.” For Baker’s complete review, visit gotfrag.com

In the interest of full disclosure, I do work for Verizon. However, I also like gaming and I like the product. Hey, it is free. - Don