Sony Online Entertainment has announced that it has licensed the rights from Midway Home Entertainment Inc, to develop and release six classic Midway games for the PS3. The games will be available for digital download through the Playstation Network; with the first game being available in early 2007.

The six downloadable titles are: Mortal Kombat II, GauntletII, Joust, Rampage World Tour, Rampart and Championship Sprint. Each title was specifically chosen because of its multiplayer capability, allowing players to experience each of these classics with their friends in the comfort of their own living room, or anywhere else through an internet connection. All of the titles will be offered for PS3 system download exclusively through the PlaystationNetwork.

“We knew these titles would be a perfect fit for the Playstation Network, and based on Sony Online Entertainment’s legacy in the online space as well as their intimate knowledge of the Playstation Network, it was an obvious decision they would be a top company to work with to bring this project to fruition,” said Steve Allison, chief marketing officer, Midway. In addition to its work on the development of the PLAYSTATION Network, SOE released a PS3 launch title, Untold Legends Dark Kingdom, in November of 2006.

“This is a great opportunity for SOE and Midway to come together to bring these arcade treasures to the next-generation of gaming on the PS3,” said John Needham, Sr. Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Sony Online Entertainment. “SOE will continue to explore additional opportunities to bring fun and unique digital content to the Playstation Network.”