Iwata: iPad is just a bigger iPod Touch

Nintendo's Satoru Iwata has responded sceptically to Apple's iPad, saying the device is just a bigger iPod Touch.

The Nintendo president said Apple had delivered "no surprises", telling the New York Times, "It was a bigger iPod Touch."

Iwata also took the opportunity to deny speculation that Nintendo is working towards the release of an HD-enabled Wii and a DS equipped with motion control.

"I question whether those features would be enough to get people to buy new machines," he said.

He also expressed his view that 3D gaming wouldn't catch on, although said he welcomed 3D films such as Avatar.

"I have doubts whether people will be wearing glasses to play games at home. How is that going to look to other people?" he responded.

The possible health effects of 3D game playing would also need to be examined, he said, since users would engage with 3D games for longer periods than they do a two hour film.

Reactions to Apple's iPad following its unveiling on Wednesday have been mixed, with most developers responding positively with the view the device could shrink the gap that currently exists between the casual and console gaming markets.

Others however have criticised Apple for creating a device for which there is no market, and question whether it will damage the prospects of smaller companies that have, so far, thrived on developing for the App Store.