Nokia Revives N-Gage Brand with Software-based Gaming Platform
Each N-Gage user will have a unique profile, including a friends list, reputation rating, and points tracker. If this sounds familiar, you're not alone--even the basic design is strikingly similar to an Xbox Live Gamertag.
Users can compete online at the N-Gage Arena, track their achievements, manage their games, access global rankings, and download free trials. The application will be available for download on the N-Gage.com website starting this November, with a handful of Nokia phones supported initially. Luckily no cartridges will be involved, so removing your phone's battery pack will not be a requisite for gaming.
Electronic Arts is onboard, with games like The Sims 2 Pets and FIFA 08 lined up for the launch in November. Other publishers with ports include Ubisoft, Capcom and Vivendi. Titles will run up to 10 euros ($14) and can be rented for varying lengths of time.
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Is the N-Gage brand really positive enough to be worth reviving? Even if this is a good platform I have a feeling a lot of real gamers will immediately dismiss it without even knowing what it is based on the name alone. Why not start over?