Nokia buys Sega assets to boost N-Gage

The deal will lead to the transfer of Sega-owned technology including the Sega Network Application Package, which was launched in May to support wireless game developers by providing them with a platform to bring mobile gamers together.

Nokia said the acquisition was a logical step in bringing online elements to mobile games. It will launch the N-Gage later this year in a bid to challenge Nintendo's dominance of the handheld gaming market, with Sega's multiplayer functionality set to become "an integral part of the N-Gage experience".

The N-Gage, with colour screen and Bluetooth connectivity, combines a mobile phone and portable games console and will be rolled out worldwide from October. Nokia also plans to operate as a games publisher, as well as manufacturer of the device.

Nokia believes the deal will benefit the entire industry - network operators will be able to generate additional revenue streams from mobile gaming services; games developers will have a flexible games platform available worldwide; and gamers will have access to feature-rich, multiplayer online games.

"Online multiplayer games and mobility are seen as the hottest developments in the games industry today," said Nokia senior VP Ilkka Raiskinen, adding that the deal "opens up new dimensions for gamers".

The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.





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