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.