Can I use d-pad in my J2me app please ?

[imdadulhoque]

According to rules for J2Me apps they must run full screen on touch devices and disable the onscreen d-pad. But I am finding it impossible to support this requirement in my game. Here is why

1. Running in full screen mode removes softkey functionality. How is the user going to pull up menus ?

2. I am making action game that requires combo moves to dispatch enemies. Without onscreen keypad how is the user going to control the character ? Demanding games use touch functionality where it does not belong is asking us to dumb down our gameplay.

If there was some exception made based on the nature of the game being judged in case by case basis it would be much better. Is such a thing possible or are even fighting games supposed to forgo their controls and somehow play well using mediocre touch support J2me offers ?

[shaii]

using the built-in j2me virtual d-pad on Nokia touch devices is not allowed for apps on Ovi.

HOWEVER you can make your own virtual D-PAD and use it on top of your game.
as for Soft keys who even uses them on touch devices??? just put a button for the user to click....

[imdadulhoque]

So if I put my own onscreen d-pad like in iPhone games it will be approved right ?

[shaii]

being approved depends on other factors as well but using your own virtual joystick/d-pad "iphone games style" wont get you rejected.

[wizard_hu_]

So if I put my own onscreen d-pad like in iPhone games it will be approved right ?

Action games often use that approach, yes.
The built-in control is just too large and does not look 'cool' at all. Banning it is exactly about comparisons with games on the competitor platforms, I think.