Nokia N-Gage 2.0 Out of Beta, Officially Launched

Nokia has offically made it entry back into the mobile gaming arena with the introduction of N-Gage 2.0. Unlike the first version of N-Gage, the current one is a service that is utilized by several Nokia smartphones in which games and a virtual community take place wherever the mobile device is.

Using N-Gage

Using N-Gage starts with creating a profile at the N-Gage website, then downloading the client application on a Nokia Symbian S60 mobile.

Currently the only models supported are the N81, N81-8GB, N82, N95, and N95-8GB. Nokia says the N-Gage application will be available for additional devices, including the Nokia N73, N93i, and N93. There has not yet been any word of supporting devices outside of Nokia's own lineup.

Once the client as been installed to the S60 device, users browse the catalog on their device or at the N-Gage website for the selection of games, and to interact with the community via the community forums.

There is no cost to using N-Gage, however some games and other community items may have a cost associated to them.

N-Gage Titles

Titles released at launch include:

• System Rush Evolution
• Brain Challenge
• Asphalt 3: Street Rules
• World Series of Poker: Pro Challenge
• Hook On: Creatures of the Deep.

Those who were involved with the N-Gage 2.0 Beta will see that EA Sports FIFA 2008 was one of the titles that did not make the launch day listing. However, this and several other games are expected soon for the platform.

Games are avaiable via limited-use trial, and can be purchased through the N-Gage application/website.

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