On paper, it would be easy to assume that Nintendo's brand new handheld console, the DS, has lost the portable gaming war before it has even begun.

The reported specification for Sony's imminent Playstation Portable (dual 333MHz MIPS processors, 32MB system memory and 480 x 272 pixel widescreen TFT) already makes the DS' 67MHz Arm9 and 33MHz Arm7 processors with 4MB of system Ram seem somewhat flaccid.

The DS is also very much a traditional gaming device, rather than the multipurpose, multifunction gadget that the PSP purports to be. Meanwhile, the device's touch-sensitive dual screen could easily be mistaken for a gimmick.

In fact, the DS is a winning combination of simplicity and innovation. Admittedly it misses the mark somewhat with its silver clamshell design. It looks unfinished and clunky, as if it were still at the prototype stage.

It is durable, however, which hints at the fact that Nintendo has made the sensible decision to aim the DS at its core audience of younger gamers. This is also reflected in the range of launch software available with Mario, Rayman and Pokemon.

Graphically, the DS looks good. The 3D visuals are on a par with those of the N64, albeit on a smaller scale. The touchscreen works rather well, too. It's put to good effect in the micro-game frenzy of Wario Ware Touched and Metroid Prime: Hunters, the latter demonstrating the control system's surprising effectiveness for first-person shooters.

Integrated wireless capability, a built-in microphone and virtual surround stereo speakers all add to the possibilities. But at its heart the DS is a typical Nintendo product: a platform for fun and colourful games.

Contact:
Nintendo 0870 6060 247
www.nintendo-europe.com

Specifications:

• Two 3in TFT LCD screens with 256 x 192 pixel resolution and 0.24mm dot pitch
• Arm9 & Arm7 processor
• 4MB of Ram
• 656KB video Ram
• Ports for Nintendo DS Game Cards and Game Boy Advance Game Paks
• Integrated 802.11 Wifi
• 250g
• 149 x 85 x 29 (w x d x h mm)
• 6-10 hours of battery life