Nominees announced for IMGA awards

The organisers of the International Mobile Gaming Awards have announced the 25 titles shortlisted to enter the next stage of the competition.

A record 400 submissions were received this year from more than 40 countries, representing a rise of 100 per cent over last year. Five games have now been shortlisted for each of the five categories, which include Best Interactive Experience, Best Use of Connectivity, Excellence in 3D and Best Use of Flash, plus Most Innovative Game.

Almost half of the top 25 games originate from Europe, with titles from the UK, Spain, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, France and Denmark all making an appearance - visit the IMGA website for the full rundown.

This year's entries span the full spectrum of mobile gaming, from 3D and educational titles to real world games - including TNO's Triangler, described as "a geometric outdoor mobile interactive game" which involves two teams of 100 players completing in a two hour match in a city or rural area.

The nominees must now produce a playable version of their game by January 26, and the winners will be announced at 3GSM in Barcelona this February. The overall cash prize of USD 40,000 will be split between the winners, with the creators of the game that receives the Grand Prix prize picking up USD 15,000.

"The quality of the games was outstanding this year, which is testament to the talent and vision displayed by developers all over the globe," said IMGA MD Maarten Noyons.

"The IMGA is all about providing developers with the platform to showcase their games on the world stage. We are witnessing the next generation of mobile game developers, which will guide the direction of the industry as a whole."