Some colours "all but sold out", as the system looks set to hit fever pitch over the holidays...

Stores across the UK are already reporting a spike in 3DS sales, causing some shortages, according to a report from MCV.

High Street sources have revealed that the Metallic Red version of the handheld has "all but sold out", while other colours are also looking to be low in stock.

The increase comes on the back of the near-simultaneous releases of Super Mario 3D Land and Mario Kart 7 - a combination Nintendo hopes will be a key driver of the platform over Christmas. GAME Group's category manager for Nintendo, Iain Johnson, said he has "high expectations" for 3DS during the hectic shopping period.

We'll have our Mario Kart 7 review ready for reading very soon. In the meantime, check out our verdict on Super Mario 3D Land, if you're still on the fence.