A platinum (II) complex of general formula (II) in which Ar1, Ar2, and Ar3 are each independently aryl, heteroaryl, or heterocyclic. Ar1, Ar2, and Ar3 together form a tridentate ligand coordinated to the platinum through atoms X, Y, and Z, respectively, and X, Y, and Z are independently carbon or nitrogen. V is a bridging group, and W is an anion. The complexes emit in the UV to near IR range and are useful as emitters for organic light emitting devices.