LOS ANGELES >> Los Angeles has sued a developer of casino-style software games it supplied to local cyber cafes — claiming they’re nothing more than illegal gambling.

The city attorney’s office sued Figure 8 Technologies on Thursday for unfair competition and false advertising. Prosecutors contend the North Carolina company provided illegal games masquerading as legal sweepstakes.

The lawsuit says the games spun reels or dealt virtual cards as in real casino games. Players bought and wagered in points and their winnings could be redeemed for cash.

The suit also names the owners of five cyber cafes that offered the games. All the cafes are out of business.

Messages left for Figure 8 representatives after hours today weren’t immediately returned.