We describe the synthesis, structure and reactivity of novel bis(1-alkenyl)platinum(II) complexes, Pt[CH2(CH2) nCHCH2]2L2 (where L2 = dppp, dppe, dppm and n = 1, 2). The stability of the title complexes with the different ligands is discussed. The steric, chelating and electronic properties of the ligands have a significant impact on the structure as well as on the reactivity of the complexes. Novel reactions with elemental sulfur and carbon dioxide are described and discussed. © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.