Sony PlayStation 3

Two variations have been promised: a 20GB model and 60GB version, though only the 60GB machine is available in Europe. One of the biggest features to draw attention to the PS3 is the inclusion of a Blu-ray Disc next-gen DVD player, allowing it to be fully utilised for the home cinema experience - though you'll need to use the HDMI port to make the most of it.

Inside, at the heart of the PS3, is the IBM co-designed Cell processor, running at around 3.2GHz. The Nvidia RSX graphics chip runs at 550MHz. A Wi-fi wireless network link is only available on the 60GB version, enabling not only internet access and on-line gaming but also allows a PSP to be connected to the device. There's a wired Ethernet port too.

So much for the spec sheet - what actually comes in the box when you part with 425 of your hard-earned pounds? The console comes with one wireless control pad and a USB cable to charge it up first. You also get a mains cable, AV connection lead and an Ethernet cable. Annoyingly, an HDMI cable is not supplied, so high definition games can't be enjoyed on an HD TV unless you remember to pick one up for around £18 more.