Video Game Console Comparison
From LoveToKnow VideoGames
A video game console comparison will help you figure out which system is best for your gaming needs. With the current choices available, it can be tough to decide (Unless you buy them all!). Read on for an in-depth analysis of the three major players.
Video Game Console Comparison
Nintendo Wii
The Nintendo Wii is one of the new video game consoles available on the market. The design is family-friendly, with simply-styled interactive games. The big draw is its unique Wii controller that resembles a remote control. Its motion-sensitive design works well with active games like Wii Sports that allows you to be actively involved with games like Tennis, Baseball, Golf, Bowling and Boxing. For those fans of the Nintendo GameCube, you will be glad to know that the system is backwards compatible, so you can play all your favorite titles using either a GameCube controller or the classic controller (sold separately). As far as graphics are concerned, they are not as impressive as those you will find on the Xbox 360 or PlayStation 3 video game systems, but its simplicity is appealing to an audience not looking for overly complicated or violent games. For your pocketbook, it is not that bad either at $250 bucks.
Other Features:
- A sensor bar that allows the Wii remote controller to be used up to 16 feet away. Up to 4 controllers can be used at one time.
- Connect the Wii to the Internet through a wireless or wired Wii LAN adaptor
- The console offers Wii channels you can use for photos, messaging, surfing the web, weather, news and voting on polls. (Requires an Internet connection to use)
Sony PlayStation 3
The newest PlayStation console has a lot to brag about. It is the first next generation system to boast a Blu-Ray disc player. Each of those disks can hold up to 50GB of data, giving the game makers a lot more room for bigger, better and more in depth titles for the hardcore gaming crowd. (Regular DVDs can only hold 4.7GB of data). The Blu-Ray video quality is also top notch with full 1080p HDTV. For audio, its theater-like sound is extremely crisp and full of detail.
Some may say that because of the late release of the PlayStation 3 and its small number of games currently available, it may not be worth getting right away. However, the system holds great promise for hardcore gamers. Standalone Blu-Ray players start at around $1,000, so it is a good investment. Also, new games are now starting to trickle in, so you may not want to wait too long if you are a heavy gamer. For those of you out there looking to try PlayStation 3 games, give the following titles a shot: Resistance: Fall of Man (shooter), Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion (RPG), or Armored Core 4 (for you Mech warrior types out there).
Looking to buy now? Amazing technology comes with a mind blowing hefty price tag- $600 for the upgraded (and better) 60GB version, vs. the basic 20GB one for $400.
Other Features:
- Games and DVDs can be seen in high-def if you have an HDTV
- Consistent with PlayStation 2, the system is backwards compatible to both PS2 and PS One games. Some exceptions apply. The unique guitar-shaped controllers for Guitar Hero II, for example, do not work at this time.
- A new SIXAXIS wireless controller with a motion sensing system that moves with the actions of the player. However, despite the fantastic nature of this controller, it has lost the vibration function from the original version. This may be disappointing to gamers, since this motion made you feel like you were part of the action of the game. (Especially if you are getting yourself beaten up by enemies!)
- Bluetooth capability – it can support up to 7 players at a time
Microsoft Xbox 360
The Xbox 360 video game console is another great next generation system. Getting a year head start in the video game market before the PlayStation 3, it has an advantage in its release of games available. Boasting top of the line graphics and sound, it has become very popular with gamers everywhere. It also offers a free “Silver” membership to its online Xbox Live service where you can play many titles online along with a selection of other titles available. For those of you out there with original Xbox games, the 360 is now backwards compatible with a large selection of titles. However, you will need to download this upgrade through the Xbox Live or Xbox.com website in order for it to work, and have the 20GB hard drive in your system. Current price of the system is $299 for the core system (which can be upgraded), and $399 for the 20GB Premium version.
Other Features:
- Games can be played in high-def if you have an HDTV
- Connect an MP3 player and other devices to the system
- Download movies, TV shows and other content from Xbox Live
- Connect a digital camera and view pictures
Note to gamers: A new Xbox 360 “Elite” version has just been released that boasts a 120GB hard drive (largest available on the market for gaming systems), a high-definition multimedia interface, and a new black premium finish with standard wireless controller. If you have one of the other versions you can upgrade by purchasing the 120GB drive separately.
Conclusion
So which gaming system will you buy? Use this video game console comparison as a guide to help point you in the right direction. Depending on your budget and gaming style, making the right choice might be easier than you think.
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