It's E3 week and we're splitting the office so that we can make sure that we get all of the breaking gaming hardware news as it happens over the pond.

It's a long way away from the E3 it used to be, but although it has lost its bells and whistles, the big boys like Sony, Microsoft and Nintendo are all giving keynotes and, certainly for the former two, remain mindful that this is a key year in the console wars.

Microsoft kicks things off, and after the weekend's announcement of the launch of a 60GB Xbox 360, it will no doubt be pushing its track record in downloads, be it HD or Live Arcade.

Sony back in business

For Sony, the fact that 2007, its annus horribilis, is behind it will add a new bounce to its step. Also that its PS3 is actually showing signs of becoming the home hub that it dreamed it would be. The PSP is currently selling in reams due to its increased functionality.

This leaves Nintendo, soaring high above them all on the, ahem, family wind. The Wii and the DS have been such a phenomenon that the company could be forgiven for resting on its laurels. But might it drop a new version on the table and run away laughing at our shock and awe?

It's an interesting situation, and one we will all be keeping an eye firmly fixed on. So stay logged on for all the latest news and UK comment, along with the best analysis on the web.