Internet TV player Brightcove has acquired rich media technology provider MetaStories to increase its self-service publishing capabilities.

MetaStories' StoryMaker tool is a hosted service that lets producers of online content combine video, graphics, text, and audio components to create Flash-based rich media. Its Web-based video editing tools are expected to complement Brightcove's existing tools to publish, track, and monetize existing video content.

MetaStories' StoryMaker tool is used by media companies like Yahoo!, MSN, Discovery Networks and Scripps Networks. Yahoo! uses StoryMaker to produce its "Kevin Sites in the Hot Zone" episodes; while Scripps uses it for producing niche broadband channels for its hgtv, DIY and Food Network content.

MetaStories' client list is also complementary to Brightcove's, with many of the companies either working with Brightcove or on Brightcove's radar as a potential client.

Like Brightcove's own online video publishing tools, StoryMaker creates Flash-based content, which fits in with founder Jeremy Allaire's past experience as CTO of Macromedia.

The companies did not disclose financial terms of the acquisition.