Virgin Media Television and Two Way Gaming, an interactive games production company, have teamed up to create Challenge Jackpot, a casino-themed interactive TV channel with accompanying website.
Launching July 1 on Virgin's Media's UK cable network, Challenge Jackpot will provide at least eight hours per day of live in-studio programming designed for at-home wagering via red-button technology. Programming after midnight will be available to Freeview and satellite subscribers on the Virgin1 and Bravo2 channels.
Initial offerings upon launch include flagship program Roulette Nation as well as live blackjack and live bingo. Outside the live output, viewers can participate in automated games such as Get Set Roulette, Face Up Hold 'Em and Hot Shot Keno.
Another way to play along with the in-studio programming is through a live video stream on website ChallengeJackpot.com, which will also feature Wagerworks' full suite of online games.
Two Way Gaming, an Alderney-based 50/50 joint venture between Two Way Media and Win Gaming Media, is responsible for producing all live programming and operating all gambling services associated with the channel.
Two Way Gaming's managing director Guy Templar calls Challenge Jackpot a "company transforming deal."
"It is really exciting when you meet a big media player like Virgin Media Television who shares our vision of combining great TV with the thrill and buzz of the casino," Templar said. "There are many great brands out there, which can be converted into entertaining TV gambling formats. Challenge, with its gameshow heritage, is the perfect partner for us."