N-Gage FAQ Version 1.4

Written by: Scott Tsukamoto (nobuo810)
Created on: 12-31-03
Last Updated on: 02-10-04

-----------------------------------------------------

Contents

       -------------------
1.      N-Gage Handheld
       -------------------
                  N-Gage Timeline
                  About the N-Gage
                  N-Gage Specifications
                  Features
                  Bluetooth
                  N-Gage Arena
                  Special Edition N-Gage
       -----------------
2.      N-Gage Games
       -----------------
                  Launch Games
                  Multiplayer Games
                  Games with N-Gage Arena support
                  Full List of Games
       -----------------
3.      Accessories
       -----------------
                  Batteries
                  Chargers
                  Headsets
                  Memory Cards
                  Other
       -----------------
4.      Wrap Up
       -----------------
                  Pros
                  Cons
                  Overall
       -----------------
5.      Other Information
       -----------------
                  Frequently Asked Questions
                  Codes/Secrets
                  Websites
                  Contact me
                  Misc.

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*****************
1. N-Gage Console
*****************

-------------------
N-Gage Timeline
-------------------

August 19th 2003:
  Nokia and SEGA reach agreement on the transfer of select SEGA.com leading
technology
August 20th 2003:
  Nokia announces N-Gage Arena
August 27th 2003:
  Electronic Arts to develop titles for Nokia N-Gage mobile game deck
September 3rd 2003:
  Electronics Boutique to Retail Nokia N-Gage Game Deck in Canada
September 22nd 2003:
  EA brings NCAA Football 2004 to the Nokia N-Gage mobile game deck
September 30th 2003:
  This is where... Nokia N-Gage advertising goes live
October 7th 2003:
  Worldwide Launch
  MotoGP Released
  Pandemonium Released
  Puyo Pop Released
  Puzzle Bobble VS Released
  SonicN Released
  Super Monkey Ball Released
  Tomb Raider Released
October 13th 2003:
  Tony Hawk's Pro Skater Released
November 3rd 2003:
  MLB Slam! Released
November 14th 2003:
  Nokia announces several bundles for the Holidays.
November 24th 2003:
  Nokia sponsors first online N-Gage tournament.
December 8th 2003:
  Virtua Tennis Released
December 10th 2003:
  NCAA Football 2004 Released
  Red Faction Released
  Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Released
December 11th 2003:
  Rayman 3 Released
January 15th 2004:
  FIFA Soccer 2004 Released
January 30th 2004:
  GameStop pulls N-Gage's and accessories from several US stores.
March 23rd 2004:
  Marcel Desailly Pro Soccer Released
  Taito Memories Released
April 27th 2004:
  Taito Memories Released
  Sega Rally Championship Released

-------------------
About the N-Gage
-------------------

The N-Gage is Nokia's first venture into video game handhelds. At a cost of
$300, it is a bit steep when compared to the Game Boy Advance, which is now $70
or $100 for the SP version. However, many stores are offering discount offers
to make the N-Gage cheaper for consumers. The N-Gage is smaller than the Game
Boy Advance, except for the SP version is closed. Featuring 4 MB internal
memory, a built in radio (which can be used while playing games), a built in
MP3 player, and a Triband cell phone; the N-Gage is ready for the future of
portable gaming. Games are stored on MMC discs, which give developers room to
make massive worlds. The N-Gage is the most powerful handheld currently
available with the best graphics, and brightest outlook for online gaming, due
to the built in cell phone. About time!

-------------------
N-Gage Specifications
-------------------

CPU: 104Mhz ARM processor 12-bit CPU
Maximum Simultaneous Colors: 4096
Resolution: 176 x 208 pixels
Size: 133.7 x 69.7 x 20.2 mm
Weight: 137 g
Operating System: Symbian OS with Java 2 Micro Edition support
Memory: 4MB internal

-------------------
N-Gage Features
-------------------

High performance mobile 3D gaming
Gaming-optimized design and functionality
Bluetooth
Digital music player and recorder
Stereo FM radio
Nokia Audio Manager PC software
New design concept, new UI experience
Multimedia messaging
Full email support (IMAP4, POP3, SMTP, MIME2)
Content with XHTML browser
Tri-band EGSM 900/GSM1800/GSM 1900
Series 60 UI enabling application multitasking
Slave USB 1.1. for digital music download from PC
MP3, AAC, Midi, WAV ringing tones
WAP over GPRS

-------------------
Bluetooth
-------------------

Many N-Gage games support the use of bluetooth play, so multiple consoles can
be linked wirelessly together for even better multiplayer excitement. In
addition to being able to play games with a bluetooth connection the N-Gage can
also take advantage of connection to a computer with the use of bluetooth, and
can also be able to use a wireless headset to speak on the phone...hands and
wires free!

-----------------
N-Gage Arena
-----------------

The N-Gage Arena is Nokia's online community where N-Gage players will be able
to post high scores, "Shadow Race" other players (race against another players
recorded level/ track time), upload clips to prove your skills, and download
cheats and strategies. The N-Gage Arena will also be the destination for future
online multiplayer games, where players will be able to challenge and play
other people across the globe.

-------------------
Special Edition N-Gage
-------------------

There are several special edition N-Gage's available, but only in Europe and
Asia, the special editions are simply the same design as the standard silver
N-Gage except the include different colors such as light gray and green.

*****************
2. N-Gage Games
*****************

-----------------
Launch Games
-----------------

Moto GP.........(Publisher: THQ Wireless - Developer: THQ Wireless)
*Pandemonium!.........(Publisher: Eidos Interactive - Developer: Ideaworks3D)
Puyo Pop.........(Publisher: Sega - Developer: Lavastorm Engineering, Inc.)
Puzzle Bobble VS.........(Publisher: Taito - Developer: Taito)
Sonic N.........(Publisher: Sega - Developer: Sonic Team)
*Super Monkey Ball.........(Publisher: Sega - Developer: Amusement Vision)
*Tomb Raider.........(Publisher: Eidos Interactive - Developer: Core Design
Ltd.)

*My top picks

-----------------
Multiplayer Games
-----------------

FIFA Soccer 2004 (1-2 players)
Marcel Desailly Pro Soccer (1-2 players)
MLB Slam (1-2 players)
Moto GP (1-4 players)
NCAA Football 2004 (1-2 players)
Pandemonium (1-2 players)
Puyo Pop (1-2 players)
Puzzle Bobble VS. (1-4 players)
Rayman 3 (1-4 players)
Red Faction (1-2 players)
Taito Memories (1-4 players)
Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell (1-2 players)
Tony Hawk's Pro Skater (1-2 players)
Virtua Tennis (1-2 players)

-----------------
Online Games
-----------------

While there aren't any actual online games available for the N-Gage. You can
'Shadow Race' against other players in order to beat their high score and get a
rank.

Known/probable online games in development:

Ashen
Operation Shadow
Pandemonium!
Pathway To Glory
The Sims Bustin Out
Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2004
Tomb Raider Starring Lara Croft
Tony Hawk's Pro Skater

-----------------
Full List Of Games
-----------------

N-Gage games are made on Multimedia Cards (MMC), there are currently fifteen
games available. But Nokia hopes to have over one hundred by the end of 2004!
In addition to playing N-Gage games you can also play Java based cell phone
games on the N-Gage as well. And with the N-Gage shaped like a handheld gaming
console, they Java games are usually easier to control!

N-Gage MMC Card Games (Released and Unreleased)

Ashen
A futuristic 3D first-person shooter that will be made by Nokia exclusively for
N-Gage! The game will make use of new 'Ghost Vision' which will allow you to
view hidden/invisible enemies!

FIFA Soccer 2004 (FIFA Football 2004)
Take it to the fields! This 3D revamped portable version of the game of the
same name makes excellent use of the N-Gage's features and allows you to play a
realistic game of soccer!

Gekido
DIS created this game originally for the GBA called 'Gekido Advance', however
the N-Gage version will be essentially the same as the GBA beat em up 2D
fighter!

Joe
HumanSoft is developing this game exclusively for the N-Gage and PSP! The game
will be an action game in which you control Joe and he defends buildings and
against terrorist threats.

Kart Racing
Created by Nokia, this game didn't make it to the release of the N-Gage, and is
Nokia's take on classic kart racing. You control extremely big headed
characters through loopy tracks that makes for one fun experience!

Marcel Desailly Pro Soccer
Due to the fact that Soccer (or Football) is the most popular sport worldwide,
the N-Gage is seeing two different soccer games at an extremely early time,
it's kickin!

MLB Slam!
Originally labled as 'Major League Baseball' this THQ Wireless title has you
step up to the plate and fill your favorite Baseball players shoes, you have 30
teams at your disposal to become the world champion!

MotoGP
The first racing game has you taking on motorcycles! created by THQ Wireless
this game incorporates awesome 3D graphics and wireless multiplayer, awesome!

NCAA Football 2004
With over 100 official college teams, complete team stats, current player
rosters, and multiple game modes NCAA has a solid foundation to please college
football fans. Plus 3D graphics!

Operation Shadow
A factional, realistic war game that has you battle in helicopters, tanks,
jeeps, and on foot. You can battle single player or with up to four players
wirelessly via bluetooth!

Pandemonium!
This 2.5D platform game has you race through levels to get to the end as fast
as you can! You'll have the ability to play as either Nikki or Fargus through
beautiful 3D graphics set to a 2D playing field.

Pathway to Glory
The first Nokia created N-Gage game in development. Not much is known about
this title except that it will be a war game that involves playing with up to
fifty players on the N-Gage Arena!

Puyo Pop
You know you've played this game before, but in case you haven't, this game is
Sega's take on Tetris. In which you try to get your puyos to explode by
matching four of the same color together. A great puzzle game!

Puzzle Bobble VS
Like Puyo Pop, this game has been around for generations. Created by Taito this
game originall had the name 'Bust-A-Move' in the US. Your goal is to match
three bubbles of the same color together to have them drop to the ground.
Another excellent puzzle game to add to your collection.

Rayman 3
The critically acclaimed platformer makes its way onto the N-Gage. With over 50
maps spread across eight universes, plus an N-Gage exclusive four-player
Capture The Flag mode, Rayman 3 provides a feast of action-platform gameplay.

Red Faction
This game features: full 3D environments, twelve destructive weapons, various
environments span 12 levels, bluetooth multiplayer death matches, and is
developed by the father of Doom, John Romero. All of this adds up to one
awesome first person shooter for the N-Gage!

Requiem of Hell
Not much is known about this exclusive N-Gage game, it will probably utilize
many of the N-Gage's features. More information on this game coming soon!

Sega Rally Championship
On your marks, get set…punch it! In Sega Rally you'll grind across brutal
terrain in a mind-bending, thrill ride of pure adrenaline. Whip through hairpin
turns and sloping tundra as you fight to stay on-course and beat the clock!

SonicN
Originally seen on the GBA under the name 'Sonic Advance' this N-Gage launch
title is an awesome platforming game that features classic gameplay and four
characters to use, each with different abilities!

Super Monkey Ball
Try to roll the monkeys (who happen to be in balls) to the goal, the catch? You
don't control the monkeys directly, you actually control the environment!

Taito Memories
Play Super Space Invaders, Bubble Bobble, and Qix. With one to four players,
blueTooth enabled gameplay! Gameplay covers the Shooter, Action, and Puzzle
genres and provides a flashback to the glorious '80s.

The Sims Bustin Out
The first 'Sims' game to come out on the N-Gage. The game will feature wireless
multiplayer and N-Gage Arena gameplay, allowing for downloading of future items.

Tom Clancy' Ghost Recon: Jungle Storm
Details coming soon!

Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell
Based on the cell phone version of the game, this enhanced port features
stealth action, ten Black Ops missions, four-player, bluetooth connectivity,
versus and co-op multiplayer modes, and the ability to utilize cool gadgets.

Tomb Raider Starring Lara Croft
A Playstation one perfect port of the now classic Tomb Raider game that started
it all. The game features fantastic 3D graphics and features three never before
published levels, along with exclusive multiplayer content thanks to the N-Gage
Arena.

Tony Hawk's Pro Skater
Portable N-Gage version of the classic PlayStation hit from Neversoft and
Activision. Features: N-Gage Arena play, two-player wireless challenges, five
game modes, ten playable pro skaters, music from popular bands, and impressive
3D graphics.

Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2004
The most realistic golf game on a portable yet! This game will feature N-Gage
Arena gameplay as well. High score posting to a leader board will be supported
through N-Gage Arena, and players will also have the ability to download new
game features such as an additional course to further extend their golf game.

Virtua Tennis
With two game modes - Arcade and World Circuit - plus up to four-player
multiplay via Bluetooth wireless technology, Virtua Tennis is feature-packed
and addictive.

Virtually Snowboarding II
Rip up the hill all year round with Virtually Board Snowboarding II on the
Nokia N-Gage game deck. Choose from three game modes, Big Air, Half Pipe and
Snowboard Cross to become the king of the hill!

Worms
Team 17's long-running series of turn-based strategy games is headed to the
N-Gage game deck.

WWE
The wrestlers of the WWE are on their way to the N-Gage, courtesy of THQ.

Xyanide
Xyanide is a side-scrolling shooter in which players assume the role of a
star-fighter pilot, named Drake, who is charged with pursuing a witch named
Aguira after she escapes from an execution ship he was escorting.

*****************
3. Accessories
*****************

-----------------
Batteries
-----------------

Battery BL-5C
This 850 mAh, Li-ion based battery provides power in a thin and light package.

Battery Life:
Games: 3-6 hours.
Talk time: 2-4 hours.
MP3: up to 8 hours.
Radio: up to 20 hours.
Standby: 150-200 hours.

-----------------
Chargers
-----------------

Travel Charger ACP-12
Small and lightweight charger for fast charging of your Nokia N-Gage game deck
battery.

N-Gage Mobile Charger LCH-12
Get the best performance out of your Nokia N-Gage game deck by using original
Nokia chargers. This small size multi-voltage (12/24 VDC) charger plugs into
the cigarette lighter and charges your Nokia N-Gage game deck battery in a
vehicle.

-----------------
Headsets
-----------------

N-Gage Stereo Headset HDD-2
Use handsfree functionality or listen to music with this stereo headset,
specifically made for the Nokia N-Gage game deck. Comfortable handsfree
operation with remote control button for answering and ending calls makes this
headset convenient and easy-to-use.

Nokia Boom Headset HDB-5
This modern headset comes with basic handsfree functionality and a convenient
over-the-ear concept providing excellent audio quality. Works great with the
Nokia N-Gage game deck!

-----------------
Memory Cards
-----------------

Nokia Memory Card DTS-64
Provides 64 MB of removable storage and increases the available memory for data
and software applications. Perfect for the N-Gage game deck!

Nokia Memory Unit DTS-128
Increase the available memory on your Nokia N-Gage game deck with 128 MB of
removable storage space. Easy to insert and remove!

-----------------
Other
-----------------

N-Gage Carry Case
This unique and stylish sleeve holds your Nokia N-Gage game deck securely. Case
is open on the front for easy access to the keypad and display.

*****************
4. Wrap Up
*****************

-------------------
Pros
-------------------

The first system to have a worldwide release
Playstation 1 quality graphics on the go
Cell phone/Gaming Device/FM Radio/MP3 Player and more all in one
Price (depending on where you buy it)
1 month free T-Mobile service
N-Gage Arena
Bluetooth

-------------------
Cons
-------------------

Made by Nokia (no videogame experience)
Have to take the back and battery off to change games
Sidetalking
Vertical screen orientation
Price (depending on where you buy it)
Few games released
No exclusive games (yet)

-------------------
Overall
-------------------

The N-Gage is the most impressive handheld gaming system released (with the
exception of the Zodiac, which isn't available in retail stores yet). For $200
and 3 games, the N-Gage is a steal at the price. You're getting a high quality
gaming device and a high quality phone all in one! The FM radio plays well, and
is a nice addition. However, the MP3 function isn't that great, due to having
to spend more money to buy a blank MMC card. The current lineup of games is
decent and in the near future will grow to hopefully catch the eyes of more
gamers around the world. Currently games like Tony Hawk's Pro Skater and Tomb
Raider Starring Lara Croft are selling the system. However, in the future games
like Pathway to Glory and Ashen (both N-Gage exclusive) will hopefully be the
bestsellers. You wanna get an N-Gage don't you?

*****************
5. Other Information
*****************

-------------------
Frequently Asked Questions
-------------------

~How much will the game deck cost?
--$300; however, you can find it for $200.

~Is a memory card included in the sales package?
--No, memory cards are available separately. MMC cards are available in 32, 64
and 128 MB storage sizes.

~In which languages will the game deck be available?
--There will be three different languages in each device (English + two
others). The full list of languages is: English, German, French, Swedish,
Finnish, Danish, Norwegian, Dutch, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Greek, Polish,
Russian, Czech, Hungarian, Turkish, Bulgarian, Romanian, Estonian, Croatian,
Icelandic, Latvian, Lithuanian, Serbian, Slovak, Slovene, Ukrainian, American
English, American Spanish, Canadian French, and Brazilian Portuguese.

~What is the correct way to type the name?
--N-Gage is the right way.

~How do I change the wallpaper?
--Go to Tools: Settings: Device: Standby Mode -> Select background image, check
yes then pick the picture you want. The system comes with several already. But
you can upload your own as well.

~My FM radio isn't working anymore. Is it broken forever, or can I fix it?
--The radio is not broken. There are two ways you can get it to start working
again. Either press one of the face keys immediately after selecting the radio
option to have a radio station come on. If you have not set a radio station to
a key yet than you must reset the N-Gage. To do so:

1 Go to the main menu (phone lobby).
2 Type this in: *#7370#
3 It will ask for a locking password (If you haven't enter a custom one, it
will be 1234).
4 This will clear the N-Gage Internal memory and make it like it was when you
first bought it.

The radio should now work.

~Can I connect to the internet via Bluetooth?
--Yes! For more information go to:
http://boards.arena.n-gage.com/viewtopic.php?t=4448

~I connected my N-Gage to my computer via USB cable, but it says no phone
connected. What's up?
--You need to have an MMC in your N-Gage for your computer to recognize it.

~Do I need phone service to be able to use the N-Gage?
--No, you don't need phone service, but you do need a SIM card.

~Does the N-Gage come with a SIM card?
-Yes, you get one month prepaid phone service thanks to T-Mobile. After your
one month is over you can continue to use the N-Gage without having to sign up
for a phone plan.

~I already have a phone, and I like my current plan. Can I swap my SIM card
from my current phone to the N-Gage and keep all of my information?
--Yes, or course.

~How do I get videos to play on my N-Gage?
--First of all the videos need to be RealMedia files (.rm or .ram), and
secondly the video must be 176 X 132 (the N-Gage's RealOne players resolution).
If they are larger than 176 X 132 then the real player will say that the movie
is too big.

~How do I make my videos like that?
--You can do it any number of ways, but I'll provide two easy ways to do it.
You can use Nokia's own media converter to convert videos. Or you can use the
'Canopus ProCoder' (the best way).

~Alright, I converted the videos but how do I get them on my N-Gage?
--You can either use bluetooth, or you can use the USB cable provided with the
N-Gage to copy and paste the movie files.

~I don't think the N-Gage looks cool, is there anyway I can change it's look?
--You can buy new faceplates and backs to it at various online stores.

-----------------
Codes/Secrets
-----------------

FloBoarder Game
If your N-Gage came with 32mb Memory Card with a picture of a woman holding a
snowboard on it, press the Menu Key, then select the Jigsaw piece. You can play
the game without registering on GPRS by selecting 'No'.

-----------------
Websites
-----------------

Several of these websites can provide you with even more information about the
N-Gage.

www.n-gage.com
ngage.ign.com
www.ngagegaming.com
www.allaboutngage.com
www.games2go.khabal.com
www.gamespy.com
www.gamesradar.com (EU)
www.gamers.com

-----------------
Contact Me
-----------------

You can contact me the following ways. Questions, comments, corrections and
ideas are gladly
accepted.

Email: [email protected] (Always make the subject "N-GAGE FAQ" or I might
think it's spam)
Yahoo Messenger: nobuo810

-------------------
Misc.
-------------------

Updates:
12-31-03: v. 1.0 Started, then completed basic guide.
01-09-04: v. 1.1 Finsished writing brief descriptions of games & added more to
the timeline.
01-15-04: v. 1.2 Changed timeline setup, and corrected the special edition
section.
02-03-04: v. 1.3 Added more to the timeline. Added more to the Frequently Asked
Questions section.
02-10-04: v. 1.4 Added more to the Frequently Asked Questions section.

I would like to thank:
Nokia, for obvious reasons
CJayC for maintaining GameFaqs
IGN for posting my FAQ
Neoseeker for posting my FAQ
and You for reading my FAQ

Thanks for reading this FAQ! More updates to come.
This FAQ may only be posted at:
http://www.gamefaqs.com
http://www.ign.com
http://www.neoseeker.com

Keep Supporting The N-GAGE!!!
_______________________________________________________________________
Copyright © 2003 - 2004 Scott Tsukamoto (nobuo810) All rights reserved.