Nokia's first stab at a mobile gaming platform, the N-Gage smartphone, has not sold well, nor has it received good reviews. Though it hit the market only six months ago, the mobile phone giant is at it again with N-Gage QD, a more compact and easier to use sequel to the original.

The new model will be able run the dozen or so games already produced for the original N-Gage. However, the N-Gage QD is more compact at 5.05 ounces and 4.65 x 2.68 x .87 inches., has a hot-swappable MultiMediaCard slot for easier game switching, longer battery life, improved gaming controls, a brighter screen, and a new N-Gage Arena launcher application.

The new launcher makes it easier for gamers to connect to N-Gage users around the world over mobile networks via the N-Gage Arena. The launcher is accessed from an icon in the game deck's main applications menu, similar to other N-Gage software. N-Gage Arena members can communicate with one another, download exclusive content, access rankings statistics, participate in events and activities, and more. The new launcher will be made available to owners of the original N-Gage in May. As with the original, N-Gage QD owners can particiate in close-range multiplayer gaming via Bluetooth.

Gamers will be happy to know that the company has eschewed the "taco" style of the original N-Gage for a more traditional and more flattering phone style. According to Nokia, the changes listed above are a result of the feedback they've received. Senior Vice President of Games, Ilkka Raiskinen, said "with improved gaming ergonomics, gamers can now start to play games at the push of a button and enjoy the increased responsiveness of the game keys. We also added support for hot-swap MMC and extended the battery life. For phone calls, we reoriented the speaker and microphone to support 'classic talking'."

The N-Gage QD will be available in two versions: a GSM 900/1800 variant (Europe, Africa and Asia Pacific) and a GSM 850/1900 variant (Americas). As with all other Series 60 smartphones, the N-Gage QD game deck also offers personal information management, an XHTML browser, email and the possibility to download and install additional Series 60 software.

It should ship in May everywhere but the Americas, where it is expected to be available in June. Nokia plans to make the N-Gage QD available for a lower price than the original, which costs over $300. The new model will retail for $199 and could go for as little as $99 from some carriers.

Forthcoming N-Gage exclusive titles include Ashen, Pathway to Glory and Pocket Kingdom: Own The World, as well The Sims: Bustin' Out, Crash Nitro Kart and Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 2004.