Remember that film about the Russian mouse? Well, the handheld is doing the same this weekend, launching on Saturday October 22nd stateside for the princely sum of 229 USD. The launch had been delayed in order for manufacturer Tiger Telematics to better prepare for this crucial debut. The company has already lost a fortune competing with the and in Europe, making success essential if the product is to continue. The Navigator satellite navigation system launched with the Gizmondo will also be available from the beginning of the Gizmondo's life, costing 169 USD for a regional pack (East Coast, Mid-West, West Coast and South West), or 249 USD for the entire country.

A full system pack will also be made available for 399 USD, which is hardly likely to be frightening off the PSP and DS any time soon, especially as this is the 'Smart-Adds' version, which makes you watch an advert every once in a while to support a subsidised price. An ad-sponsored European model costs about 130 GBP, whilst the 'standard' console costs 230 GBP. The company are still operating a store in Regent street at the moment, but recent financial reports made for dire reading, the company desperately trying to ramp-up sales.

A widescreen version of the system is promised for 2006. We'll keep you posted.

By Luke Guttridge