Ranking the Game Consoles

In a recent study, it was determined that Americans spend more money on video games and video consoles then they do at the movies. I can understand why after looking at some of the recent garbage that Hollywood has given us. The #1 movie last week was “Dr. Seuss’ Horton Hears a Who!” starring Jim Carrey. I remember when Jim Carrey used to be funny!

The number 2 movie of the week was “Tyler Perry Meets the Browns” with Angela Bassett and Rick Fox directed by Tyler Perry? What is Rick Fox even doing in movies?

Anyways, with these kinds of options at the movies I would much rather stay at home and play video games. This is where my life becomes tough.

What console should I play? PS3, XBOX360 or Wii

#1 – Wii (249.99)

Have you ever tried to find one a Wii Console online or in the store? They are impossible to find! The reason for the Wii’s popularity is because of it’s appeal to both genders and all age groups. The Wii comes bundled with Wii Sports and most people can have a good time just having that game. There are other positive aspects about the Wii that makes it a highly recommended console to purchase.

1. User Friendly. My 5 year old niece learned how to bowl in 20 minutes.
2. Cost. $250 and it comes with Wii Sports!
3. Social Ice Breaker. We have had boring people (drifters and bums) over many times but the Wii usually solves that problem once you run out of things to talk about.
4. No need for HDTV or Plasma.

Negatives

1) I am constantly changing batteries for the remotes.

2) Setup. I don’t know if it’s just me but it looks kind of wimpy. The graphics are sub-par (No HD) and you have to make sure you get the sensor on just right.

3) If you are not careful you will smash your tv. See below.

#2 XBOX 360 Arcade Bundle (279.99)

I would not recommend the XBOX 360 to an amatuer.  You should have years of “gaming” experience before you attempt to operate an XBOX.  Superior selection of games, including the best game on the market right (DOOM3)

All games are in high-definition; easy-to-use Dashboard interface; excellent online gaming and communications via Xbox Live; plays hundreds of (but not all) original Xbox titles; doubles as a superior digital media hub and Windows Media Center extender; online

XBOX comes in many different packages. 20GB, Elite and the Arcade Package.  To get the most bang for your buck, get the Arcade Package. 

 More Positives

1) Great Graphics (1080P)

2) Awesome Games (Doom3, Knights of the Old Republic, Madden Series, Ninja Gaiden)

3) Real “Gamers” play XBOX 360.

 Negatives

1) It can get expensive.  To get the most out of your XBOX you will definitely need an HDTV.  The best games can be found on XBOX and they are not cheap. On-line play is not free either.  I have a gamefly account.  If you haven’t heard of gamefly I recommend trying it out.  It works just like Nextflix. 

2) They can overheat.  They have been known to overheat and this can cause it to “freeze up” in the middle of a game.  A good way to avoid having your XBOX overheat is to be mindful of the setup.  You should avoid stuffing it into a cabinet or tight space and make sure you give it some room to breath.

3) Addictive.  Playing this console can cause serious problems with all aspects of the rest of your life if you get addicted.  Video game addiction is a growing concern all over the world. Up to 90 percent of American youngsters play video games and as many as 15 percent of them — more than 5 million kids — may be addicted, according to data cited in the AMA council’s report.

#3 – Sony PS3 80 GB (499.99)

This is a great console but it came out at the wrong time and that has brought down sales and given it some bad word of mouth.  It has not been able to match the popularity of the legendary PS2 but that does not mean it is a bad console.  The graphics are superior to the XBOX 360 and it has a sleeker look.  The main thing that has brought the sales of PS3 down are the games that are being offered for this Console right now.  Once Grand Tarismo (Releases 2009) and Grand Theft Auto (Releases 4.29.08) come out I expect the sales for this system to increase.

Positives 

1)  Its multimedia capabilities are second to none. Being able to view photos, browse the Internet and watch high-definition movies on one console is a god-send.

2)  Blu-ray. Now that a next-generation movie format has been decided, the in-built Blu-ray player means I won’t have to splash out more cash for a standalone player.

3)  It’s whisper quiet.

4) Post your highlight clips online (check mine out)

 Negatives

1) No games to play.

2) Expensive!!

Nothing will ever beat the original game console that launched the multi billion dollar business.  I know some of you still love to break out the old joystick!

Thanks for letting me share.

 V

www.guruconsult.com