In a recent press release, Nokia has announced that D3Publisher will use its SNAP mobile platform to develop connected games for Java-based mobile phones. This means that the mobile version of D3Publisher's Earth Defense game, expected to be available by end of 2007, will be equipped with mobile connected functionality, to let players battle against each other, check scores and communicate via their mobile devices.

Lots of online game makers are coming to understand that users want to tailor their access to the world, and this kind of technology is enjoying increasing scrutiny as it becomes more evident that mobile connectivity is a good avenue for this -- users want to be able to check in with their game without a full login, whether it means checking item auctions, messages or character stats on the go. Expect more online games to have mobile options using technology like SNAP. An online mobile game will necessarily be a simpler experience than a full PC or console-based MMO, and while the mobile version of Earth Defense seems to be a separate, stand-alone mobile online game, it provides a good peek into how this technology can be used as an integrated adjunct to existing MMOs.

Nokia plans to distribute Earth Defense Force on select Nokia handsets, and make the game available for global operator-assisted download.

"SNAP Mobile provides us with a carrier-grade platform that ensures a consistent mobile gaming experience for our dedicated fan base and expands the reach of our games to a global level through Nokia's distribution channels," said Yuji Konishi, Director and the Vice President of Mobile & Network Business Division of D3Publisher. "After much consideration, SNAP Mobile emerged as the ideal partner that could take our established Earth Defense Force game and make it suitable yet entertaining for a wide selection of mobile devices, while still retaining the online features that our game players have come to enjoy."