3D virtual worlds creator Icarus Studios has announced that it has signed a partnership agreement to license its Icarus platform with The Venue Network, an on-demand virtual venue provider which shares content and customizes experiences for online attendees.

Currently under private beta testing as the company readies a public release for Q3 2008, The Venue Network allows presenters and educators to meet with online attendees and share documents and media through a browser-based 3D experience. Using avatars and point-and-click templates, the company enables users to create interactive learning, collaborative, social, and entertaining experiences without worrying about distance, time, or impractical costs.

The announcement follows Icarus Studios' recent update of its virtual worlds and MMOG platform to game engine improvements and new social features, such as a mail system with a cash on delivery option, an auction system, a guild/club system, and raids.

Said Icarus Studios CEO Jim Hettinger: “We are very excited to partner with The Venue Network. Serious games and distance learning have become core uses for our virtual world technology platform, and The Venue Network’s 3D virtual venues is a great example.”