Nokia set to launch new 3D Pool Game on Java cell phones

New pool game to offer 3D, connected gaming fun through the Nokia SNAP Mobile service Nokia, the leader in mobile communications, announced today the launch of a new game “3D Pool”(working title), expected to be available later this year on selected Java-enabled cell phones through Nokia SNAP (Scalable Network Application Package) Mobile service. One of several connected games Nokia SNAP Mobile has planned for Java-based phones, this new pool game redefines the billiards genre with its 3D visuals and online community features.

“Our goal at Nokia SNAP Mobile is to deliver users a new way to play games and be connected with their friends, said Lisa Waits, head of Nokia SNAP Mobile. “With this take on a classic game, we’re accomplishing both.” Developed by UK-based The Code Monkeys and supported by the Nokia SNAP Mobile platform, “3D Pool” enables customers to play pool on their phones with any other customer across the globe in beautiful 3D. Users can play alone or with others online, battling it out in European 8 Ball, U.S. 8 Ball, or U.S. 9 Ball. Gamers can hone their skills in the practice mode, or step it up a notch in the trick shot mode and create their own ways to stick their opponent. Nokia SNAP Mobile also plans to include rankings and friends list with chat. “The whole essence of shooting pool is to play it with your friends and brag about your last shot”, said Elliot Gay, Managing Director of The Code Monkeys. “With Nokia SNAP Mobile we have been able to take this atmosphere to mobile phones and create the best connected pool game available for mobile handsets to date.” “The mobile phone industry has only glimpsed the myriad ways people will interact via their cell phones, and increasing communication between users in games is where Nokia SNAP Mobile is putting its stake in the ground,” continued Waits. “It has been said that 2005 is the year of the downloadable game; we believe 2006 will be the year of the connected game and we are ready.” All online Java games currently created for the Nokia SNAP Mobile platform are supported by Series 60 Java MIDP2.0 capable phones from Nokia and the handset support for other Nokia and non-Nokia handsets is broadened shortly. Earlier this year, Nokia announced deals with Hong-Kong based carrier SmarTone and has several other deals in the works with other carriers to bring SNAP Mobile platform games to their customers. “3DPool”is expected to be available on mobile phones later this year.