Games

To keep us busy while testing the N-Gage, Nokia sent along three games: The Sims Bustin' Out, Ashen, and Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2004. All three have Bluetooth and online multiplayer options.

We spent the most time with The Sims, guiding our character through SimVally and helping him complete assigned tasks. A simplified version of the console game of the same name, Bustin' Out still offers a great deal of variety. Besides the tasks, there are eight mini-games tied to different career paths, and many people to meet. Even on a small screen, Bustin' Out manages to keep the charm of the original and makes a good alternative for people who get turned off by shooters or other types of games.


Ride mechanical bulls in a country western bar in The Sims Bustin' Loose.

Ashen is available only on the N-Gage QD and is being highly touted by Nokia as a gotta-play-it game that will drive the platform. Happily, this first-person shooter largely lives up to its billing, even if it doesn't go anywhere that Quake hasn't already gone. It in, you explore Seven River City, which has been overrun with demons. Blast anything creepy.


Blast away at devious demons in the first-person shooter Ashen.

Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2004 is already available on many gaming platforms, and now on the N-Gage, as well. The advantage of the N-Gage is that you can complete live with other players in the online Arena. The game has three real-world courses, two fantasy courses, and a variety of player and weather options. Use the career mode to build your character over repeated play.


Choose from a variety of courses and weather conditions in Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2004.