Twelve years after the arrival of the original Game Boy, Nintendo is launching the first true successor to the gaming handheld. The Game Boy Advance (GBA) is out in the UK from tomorrow, having already sold 2m units since its March release in Japan. Its mix of smart graphics, multiplayer link options and backcatalogue play compatibility looks set to catch on here.

First impressions of the GBA , right, are positive. The 32-bit newcomer weighs just 150g and is easier to hold. However, the new shoulder buttons, on top of the unit, can be hard to reach. The GBA comes in four colours with a maturer look to the design, although the screen is a problem because without being backlit, it can be difficult to follow the action when out of direct light.

And the games themselves are worth seeing, with the majority of the 13 launch titles offering impressive graphics, including pseudo 3D visuals that only a few years ago were the preserve of home gaming consoles.

David Gosen of Nintendo Europe is bullish: "Game Boy Advance is a revolution in handheld gaming. It takes mobile gaming to another level, delivering home console quality gaming right into the palm of your hand."

Nintendo's three releases - Super Mario Advance, F-Zero and Kuru Kuru Kururin - all look the part even if it is only Kuru that offers something original.

Elsewhere the Konami duo of Castlevania and Krazy Racers impress, while THQ's GT Advance is the choice for the serious handheld driver. The prettiest looking title so far is Ubisoft's Rayman Advance.

Developers and publishers have embraced the format as over 100 games are expected by Christmas. Cameron Sheppard, of developers Crawfish Interactive is typical: "One of the advantages of developing for the GBA is that programmers and artists love working on the system, which helps in making great games."

The big publishers are also keen. Konami UK's Jon Murphy, says: "We're wholeheartedly supporting the GBA's launch and expect it to be a major success."

Joe Booth, European Development Director, of Bam! Entertainment is similarly enthusiastic: "It's a very exciting system. It has the power of a Super Nintendo, a bigger screen and allows four people to play simultaneously using the same cartridge."

But there are some drawbacks. Nintendo has a poor reputation with third-party publishers, who failed to support the company's last home console, the N64. Luckily for Nintendo there is little competition in the handheld sector.

Nintendo has big plans for the little machine. The GBA has been designed to double up as a controller for its next home console - the Gamecube - which is out in the UK early next year.

Plans for wireless gaming are under way. The screen may be too dark but Game Boy Advance has the games, processing power and developer support that should ensure a bright future.