Blockbuster responded to Netflix’s constant announcements of partnerships and services with an on-demand video solution for movie fans. The movie provider rolled out the MediaPoint digital media player, created in collaboration with integrated broadband solution provider 2Wire.

The media player is free of charge if customers agree to pay the advance rental of 25 Blockbuster Ondemand movies for $99. The company said the offer includes newly released titles, and that after the initial 25 rental, movie titles will be available for $1.99 each.

“The MediaPoint digital player, featuring Blockbuster Ondemand, is entertainment made easy,” said Jim Keyes, Blockbuster Chairman and CEO, adding that the player is simple to use, provides DVD quality video, and requires no monthly subscription commitment.

The player works seamlessly with any broadband connection, either wirelessly via built-in Wi-Fi or wired via Ethernet cable. In addition to that, it offers full fast-forward, rewind and pause capabilities, as well as a DVD quality experience no matter the broadband connection.

“To be successful, a broadband video offering needs to deliver movies that people want to see, in the quality they expect, with minimal setup requirements,” Pat Romano, chief executive officer of 2Wire pointed out.

While trying to catch up with Netflix, Blockbuster is confident that one of the major assets of its offering are the new releases, many of which they say will be available within weeks of leaving theatres.