Nokia is at work on ASHEN, its third self-published title for the N-Gage mobile game deck, available in the first half of 2004. ASHEN is a 3D gothic horror themed, first person shooter that pits mobile gamers against a host of horrors. In addition to exciting single player action, up to four people can play in death match mode via Bluetooth wireless technology.
ASHEN is being developed by Torus Games, a leading game developer based in Melbourne, Australia.
"ASHEN will capture mobile gamers with its impressive gameplay and unique features," said Pasi Polonen, director of game publishing, entertainment and media business unit, Nokia Mobile Phones. "With a compelling storyline, fast-paced action and unique features, Ashen will inspire gamers to fight against an amazing range of enemies and to explore and rescue the citizens of Seven River City."
The game has a unique "ghost vision" mode enabling gamers to detect and combat invisible enemies that block their progress through the game. Players can choose from eight different weapon types such as dual pistols, a Gatling gun, sniper rifle and a unique alien assault gun. Eight single-player maps are available, with two additional maps for multiplayer deathmatch gaming. Ashen players will be able to share their best scores with other devotees of the game via N-Gage Arena, the mobile online gaming community.
Mobile gamers can immerse themselves in a rich 3D world, ranging from ruined cityscapes, spectacular cathedrals, and alien infested streets. With eight unique and intelligently behaving enemy types, players will need to keep their wits about them as they try to unravel the reasons behind the supernatural phenomena that have taken over Seven River City.
The N-Gage game deck is an innovative mobile device that is creating an entirely new market for the games industry. Built for active and hardcore gamers, the N-Gage platform is the first mobile and connected game deck to feature online high-quality 3D multiplayer gameplay over Bluetooth wireless technology and GPRS.
The N-Gage device also offers unique online games services as well as a comprehensive and growing games catalogue from the leading game publishers. Nokia (www.nokia.com) is the world leader in mobile communications. Nokia and N-Gage are trademarks or registered trademarks of Nokia Corp.
Torus Games (www.torus.com.au) is an independent developer of video games based in Melbourne, Australia. Torus has been developing videogames since 1994 and employs a staff of more than 50.
