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The autostereoscopic marvel that is the Nintendo 3DS is finally here. It&aposs sleeker and shinier, but will still be utterly familiar to the 145m who have bought the previous DS versions across the globe. The touch-sensitive lower screen remains but, of course, it&aposs all about that upper one and those three-dimensional delights it offers - all without the need for glasses.

That&aposs been the USP for the 3DS right from the get-go. "No dodgy specs? Really?" And while some thunder may well have been stolen with the launch of LG&aposs Optimus 3D Android smartphone, which is also autostereoscopic (no-glasses 3D), the 3DS is the first kid on the gaming block to offer this tech - and what&aposs more, it actually works.

There definitely is a "sweet spot" where you need to keep your eyes fixed in order to ensure that images jump out from the screen, but keeping the machine in this position is no hard ask. An analogue stick is a welcome addition, too, for those who moved on from D-pads after ditching their Eighties Game & Watch.

The handheld&aposs extra processing power was evident when we tried out Ridge Racer 3D, which, though still a little blocky, has enough speed to be impressive. Racing lends itself to the 3D genre well, better than some other game types as it allows you to judge corners and twists in the road, so it&aposs no surprise this is one of the launch titles. RR3D is simple, frenetic and addictive, and, as smoke billows from the tyres and leaves the screen to seemingly engulf you, you&aposll definitely need some Optrex handy as the concept of blinking leaves your subconscious. If only the campaign was longer - but it&aposs great while it lasts.

One small gripe on the 3DS is the camera, which does indeed capture 3D images, but not in any quality to write home about. But with this minor flaw out the way, the rest is all good. And, if you are getting one, we humbly suggest the "Cosmos" black.

Nintendo 3DS, £200, www.nintendo.com/3ds