Nintendo Wii

When I bought the Wii console I didn't really know what to expect. I had seen the adverts on TV so I knew the concept, but I was very pleasantly surprised by how enjoyable it is - and how addictive it is.

I got the Wii Sports and Wii Sports Resort games with it and the secret intention was to get rid of a bit of weight without having to go out into the British winter to do it. To this end, it is ideal (it's too early to say if it's losing me weight but I am certainly spending hours in physical activity instead of sitting down).

To personalise the experience you can create your own characters (called Mii) which then become your players or opponents in the games.

You do need a lot of space around you to play the games and there have already been occassions where I have sent ornaments crashing off shelves with my flailing arms as I get immersed in the games. This should be considered if you are thinking about buying one.

The system was easy to set up and doesn't require a great deal of technical know-how and the games are fun for all ages, incorporating gentler activities alongside the more vigorous ones.

There are a couple of features that I haven't yet used but certainly will be doing in the near future. The ability to manipulate digital images and to download and play older Nintendo games (requires internet connection).

The only downside I have noticed so far is that the batteries that were included with the handset ran out after four days - but I have used it a lot in this time.