The ability list products in the normal categories list that are free and do not initiate the checkout process.

Can i bump this post please - Can Viart support free downloads without the need to checkout or atleast have some kind of checkout which doesnt need a gateway?

Offer a direct download on your webpage then :)

I would prefer that they have to register just as if they were buying a product but if i have to just offer the download direct then so be it

It does actually seem that Viart does support free products. Checkout is as normal but you dont get transferred to the gateway, it just completes the order
 
Only tested with PayPal as gateway.