Like E3 itself, the Nintendo conference was a much more subdued affair than those of previous years – although new ‘family’ software, such as Wii Fitness impressed the throngs of media and retail present.

Hosted by Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime, the event kicked off with the words: “My name is Reggie… and I’m very happy.” And as he boasted of the fact that 69 per cent of industry growth comes directly from Nintendo products, it was not difficult to see why was smiling.

Headlining the conference was the announcement of Wii Fit, a software and mat bundle which tracks balance, measures weight and records the user’s movement as he follows the fitness instructions on-screen.

Also unveiled was the Wii Zapper, an arcade-style gun peripheral which will be rolled out later this year, bundled with a game, priced at $19.99.

In addition, Fil-Aimes announced that Mario Kart Wii is scheduled for a Q1 2008 release, with a custom Wii wheel debuting alongside the title.

He concluded: “There’s something beyond creativity going on – leadership. And it’s Nintendo’s turn to lead.”