Nokia begins countrywide search for India''s mobile gaming champion

Mumbai: Nokia, the world leader in mobile communications, has launched the first-ever mobile gaming championships in India. Titled ''N-Gage QD Challenge Mobile Gaming Championship'', the competition began September 14, and is open to all Indian nationals over 18 years of age. The championship will cover 47 cities across the country and will consist of bronze, silver and gold rounds. The winner will be crowned India''s mobile gaming icon in October this year and will walk away with a bumper prize of Rs10 lakh.

Announcing the launch of the championship, Sanjeev Sharma, managing director, Nokia customer and market operations, India, said, "India is a large country with a predominantly young and technology-savvy population which makes it an ideal market for mobile gaming. As the leading brand in a world where mobility has pervaded all facets of everyday life, Nokia is keen to own forums and entertainment platforms which will enable it to clearly articulate its vision of ''making entertainment mobile''. The N-Gage mobile gaming championship is another ''first'' for Nokia in the Indian market and will help create awareness and following for a new dimension of mobile entertainment."

Detailing Nokia''s rationale for creating the N-Gage championship, Gautam Advani, multimedia business director, Nokia India, said, "Gaming is an exciting way to communicate and connect with a larger community of like-minded people. Mobile gaming has emerged as a preferred pastime for youngsters around the world and by initiating this championship, Nokia is giving India''s youth the opportunity to be part of a global craze and enjoy the adrenaline rush of a high quality gaming experience."

In order to create excitement for and facilitate maximum participation in the championship, Nokia has designed ''N-Gage QD Challenge buses'' that will visit 47 towns. It has also created ''N-Gage QD Challenge Zones'' in 11 cities across the country. Gaming enthusiasts can visit either to participate in the bronze round. Entry forms and information will also be available at about 600 Nokia NPD and leading outlets in over 100 cities across the country.

In June 2004, Nokia launched the N-Gage QD, its new mobile game device in the Indian market. Priced at Rs11,599, the N-Gage QD doubles up as a phone with a colour screen and GPRS connectivity.