Ahead of what it hopes will be its defining year in the games industry, US media giant Warner has named gaming as the one bright spark in its otherwise dreadful financial report.

Warner yesterday reported an operating loss of $16bn in 2008, massively down from the $8.9bn operating profit it enjoyed in 2007. The firm last week announced plans to shed 700 jobs.

However, Variety reports that its losses were at least partly offset by strong performances of some of its gaming titles, most notably LEGO pairing Batman and Indiana Jones – adding that despite the fact the latter title was published by LucasArts, Warner’s acquisition of developer Traveller’s Tales means it was able to grab some of the financial benefits.

Warner’s upcoming games slate for 2009 includes the likes of Watchman, F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin, Wanted: Weapons of Fate and the recently announced LEGO Battles.