Nintendo has admitted that some of its DS Lite handheld games consoles have been affected by a problem that causes the console's case to crack. The company claimed the damage was purely "cosmetic" and does not affect the "gameplay or integrity" of the gadget.

Nintendo said the issue affected just 0.02 per cent of the DS Lites it has shipped to date. However, it told buyers with cracked machines - the damage appears on the screen hinge - to return them for repair.

DS Lite owners should contact their local customer services division, Nintendo said. If the damage is found to be the result of the manufacturing defect, it will be repaired under warranty.

Nintendo Europe told industry-watching website GamesIndustry.biz: "If someone experiences a problem with their DS Lite they should contact their local customer services department."

However, one Reg Hardware reader did, to ask Nintendo UK customer services if there was a problem that would be fixed free of charge and was tersely told: "No." We hope the division's European superiors inform it that's not the case. ®