Not content with being one of the leading messaging, voice and video-chat platforms, Viber has announced it is expanding its app to include a mobile gaming element called Viber Games.

The company has partnered with a number of leading game developers in order to bring gaming experiences to its platform that incorporate characters featured in its core messaging functionality. Viber Games is initially being released in Belarus, Malaysia, Israel, Singapore and the Ukraine, with a staggered released planned for the rest of the world over the next two months.

The initial line-up of games features Viber Candy Mania and Viber Pop, created by mobile gaming network Storm8, and Wild Luck Casino, developed by casual game maker Playtika. The games were built using Viber Connect, a private API that enables users to connect with contacts over Viber while they play, sending gifts, invites and messages.

“We have been focusing on broadening the functionality of Viber and are really excited to unveil Viber Games,” said Talmon Marco, CEO of Viber. “This major expansion of our platform gives people another completely new way to connect with Viber. Its an important step for us and we are looking forward to the response from our users.”