UK newspaper The Sun is preparing to launch Sun Play, a mobile gaming product that will combine free-to-play skill games with a suit of real money games designed to complement its existing print and online games.

The product will be powered by Evolve, the mobile gaming platform designed by B2B mobile gaming provider Nektan. As the platform provider, Nektan will retain a share of the net revenue generated by the games.

Sun Play has been developed around the growing entertainment needs of online players who are graduating from virtual currency games to real money gaming, and will provide players with games and other innovative content that aims to build on the heritage of the newspaper.

“Having carefully evaluated the market, Nektan were the stand-out partner for News UK to power Sun Play,” said Neil Martin, business development director at News UK. “We are very excited to be working together to deliver the most enjoyable gaming experience to 7m print and online readers daily. Entertaining our customers across different points in their media day is a key focus for our business.”

“I am delighted that News UK has chosen Nektan as its partner following a rigorous selection process and this reflects the quality of our market-leading mobile gaming platform and best-in-class B2B offer,” said Gary Shaw, executive chairman of Nektan. “We are looking forward to working closely with the team at The Sun to bring the exciting new Sun Play mobile games to millions of Sun readers.”