Games Industry.biz
20:57 (BST)
07/02/2008
N-Gage begins open beta test
Nokia has released information on its N-Gage web site explaining how users of its N81 handset can download the much-awaited N-Gage mobile games platform for beta testing.
The software platform, which will link mobile gamers with multiplayer and social elements in much the same way that Xbox Live does for console gamers, is nearing completion.
The final stage before full-scale deployment to a wider range of Nokia high-end handsets is to increase the user base, a common method used to establish the stability of online multiplayer games.
Currently the precise handsets that are supported for the pre-release software are the Nokia N81 and N 81 8GB, connected via service plans that support GPRS or with access to a wireless network - although Chinese editions of the handset are currently incompatible.
Games available to sample during the beta test include Creatures of the Deep, Space Impact: Kappa Base, Block Breaker Deluxe and System Rush Evolution, with a further 13 titles - including FIFA 08, Brothers in Arms and The Sims: Pets - available after full launch.
To comment on this article, or view other users comments, you need to register for the GamesIndustry.biz Network.
Zavvi confirms EUK supply issues
Website orders for DVD, music and videogame products cancelled as the company struggles to cope with demand
SCi files to change name to Eidos
Parent company to adopt publisher's name, effective date yet to be announced
November DSi sales pass 500,000 units
Figures from Enterbrain show the latest iteration on the handheld match performance of DS Lite
Xbox 360 US sales see record-breaking Black Friday weekend
Microsoft reveals units up 25% on last year's holiday period
