Nintendo's eagerly anticipated new handheld console, the has launched in the today.

The 3DS launch was lacking in support from Nintendo's key franchises like Mario, and Kirby. They instead opted to launch three varieties of Nintendogs and Pilotwings Resort as their first-party launch titles.

With launch prices varying between 170 GBP and 220 GBP and hundreds of games stores across the GAME, Gamestation and HMV chains opening at midnight to sell the machine, this has been one of the most hotly-contested launches yet.

To add more spice into the mix also launched their 2 today at 5pm with it only becoming available to pre-order around midnight.

By Ewan Aiton