Which game console should you buy? A lot has changed since the Xbox 360 debuted in November 2005. After what has seemed like dozens of upgrades, improvements, omissions, price drops, and bundles, the dust has settled (for now) and we're left with three competitively priced consoles. Such an evenly matched trio of hardware makes for the perfect time to reignite the ultimate question for prospective video game console buyers: Which home console should you buy? This question doesn't necessarily have a definitive answer. Quite frankly, the answer could be any of the three. In other words, there is no default "best console." It's about finding the one that's right for you--and what will be the deciding factor in your case will ultimately depend on what you plan to use the console for. That said, in lieu of detailing every last bit of functionality that each console offers, let's discuss the type of person we think would benefit most from each console. Nintendo Wii (US$200) While the recently discounted Wii isn't regarded as a "hardcore" gamer's console, the system has served up some pretty compelling titles over the past three years, like Super Mario Galaxy, The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, Metroid Prime Corruption, and Super Smash Bros. Brawl. We are looking forward to games like New Super Mario Bros. Wii and Super Mario Galaxy 2, but big name titles like these are few and far in between. All things considered, the Wii has become best known for its addictive party games, the occasional fitness game, and shooting titles that emulate light gun arcade games. The amount of first-party Nintendo titles is small and a large amount of third party games are written off as gimmicky cannon fodder. The Wii's online multiplayer experience isn't anything to write home about, but we definitely recommend playing Mario Kart Wii online. Unfortunately, the Wii's 16-digit friend code system did not catch on with most gamers. The established Virtual Console offers an impressive amount of classic games from various older gaming systems and WiiWare provides a platform for inexpensive titles from independent developers. Aside from games, the Wii doesn't offer much in terms of additional functionality. It can't play DVDs or CDs, and its only streaming media compatibility comes from PlayOn's third-party PC software. Accessories for the Nintendo Wii can add up. The console supports up to four Wii remotes and Nunchuks (the system comes with one of each), and now, with the debut of Wii MotionPlus, you'll want to get a few units so that you can play titles that take advantage of the new motion technology. All this, plus extra chargers and batteries can become quite pricey, creating a lot of hidden costs. The Nintendo Wii is best for: Parents with children who are just beginning to enter the world of gaming, family gaming, and an environment with a lot of people (dorm room or apartment with numerous roommates). The Wii is not the best choice for: Those who are looking for a game console that doubles as an all-purpose entertainment hub, want state-of-the-art HD graphics, enjoy a robust online community, and/or those who prefer a wide selection of adult-targeted titles. Key Wii exclusives: All Zelda, Mario, and Metroid games.  Super Mario Galaxy is one of the best games available for the Wii. |
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Zagatos says...
I still remember when the ps3 was priced at $600 what was sony thinking!!! but anyways iam glad that theres still full support and not bringing a new system anytime soon and for the price any of those systems are a good buy. Consumers like myself should be happy and hats off to the big three for lowering their prices.
Oct 09, 2009 08:25
I still remember when the ps3 was priced at $600 what was sony thinking!!! but anyways iam glad that theres still full support and not bringing a new system anytime soon and for the price any of those systems are a good buy. Consumers like myself should be happy and hats off to the big three for lowering their prices.
Oct 09, 2009 08:25
Sepanta says...
I Chose The Best Of Its ( As I Think ) . I`m Waiting To PS3 Slim To Come On Iran`s Market . Every Time I Can See It , Will Forget Anything About X - Box , Nintendo & .... And Buy PS3 .
Oct 16, 2009 04:35
I Chose The Best Of Its ( As I Think ) . I`m Waiting To PS3 Slim To Come On Iran`s Market . Every Time I Can See It , Will Forget Anything About X - Box , Nintendo & .... And Buy PS3 .
Oct 16, 2009 04:35
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