Game System of Choice for New, Inexperienced, and uninformed Gamers

Considering buying a game system? Considering buying one as a gift? Well this guide is for you! I’ll take you through the pros and cons of each system, avoiding bias where at all possible. The reason people argue over which is better is because quite frankly, it all depends on what they’re looking for in a console. Mind you, some of these assertions might be general. Anyhow, let’s get started!

At Home Consoles

The current generation of T.V. projected consoles includes the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and the Nintendo Wii. The PC and other computer systems can also play games, but typically, these three systems are where it’s at. There has been talk of the next generation of systems coming out soon. Soon, being a very unspecific term probably shouldn’t be taken too seriously.

Cost from GameStop:

New at $200 and up

Used at $120 and up

Mature rated games sold online by GameStop: 572

Teen rated games sold online by GameStop: 630

E rated games sold online by GameStop: 683

From the preceding information, this system is slightly more inclined towards the more mature gamer. Since growing up, I’ve known very few people who played anything except teen and mature rated games on this system. A bulk of the top hits, such as “Halo” and “Gears of War” are also mature. If you’re worried about ratings, you might want to consider another system.

Through personal experience, the 360 is superior for shooter games. The system is slightly stronger than the Wii and slightly weaker than the PS3 (processing wise) but has the most superior online play. The downside to its online services (referred to as Xbox Live) is that a majority of them, such as playing with others across the world, cost $$$. Still, since most shooters are more inclined towards multiplayer gamers, the superior online service makes this the system of choice for shooter fans.

Cost from GameStop:

New at $250 and up

Used at $200 and up

Mature rated games sold online by GameStop: 497

Teen rated games sold online by GameStop: 671

E rated games sold online by GameStop: 856

From the preceding information, this system is inclined towards the teenager. Just like with the Xbox, I’ve met fewer people who play E rated games on this console. There are more exceptions to this system though, such as Spyro.

The PS3 is the most superior as far as processing and graphics are concerned. Its online play isn’t up to par with the 360, though, making it a little bit worse than the 360 for shooters and other over-the-web multiplayer games. This system is magnificent for racing and sports games. Considering most people who play these types of games are also car and sports enthusiasts, the superior graphics and processing power often mean a lot to them.

Cost from GameStop:

New at $150 and up

Used at $90 and up

Mature rated games sold online by GameStop: 59

Teen rated games sold online by GameStop: 408

E rated games sold online by GameStop: 1465

Obviously, the target audience for the Wii is children. Mature rated games on the Wii often aren’t that good either. Still, it’s not as though E rated games aren’t for adults as well. Some of my favorite games are rated for everyone.

The Wii is a very distinct console. I barely even consider it a gaming system and not because it’s not worthy. With the motion detection and all that jazz, the Wii promotes physical interaction. The Xbox has tried to combat with Kinect (motion sensor games) but still cannot pull in the same support. To be frank, the graphics suck. Graphics aren’t everything though. This system is ideal for the puzzle and problem solver. If you’re ready to invest in two systems, I would strongly suggest one of them be a Wii. This is because it’s distinct from the other consoles.

The biggest issue with handhelds is that they’re constantly evolving. I feel as though every time I look, Nintendo and Sony have come out with a new or upgraded on-the-go console. Still, you have to buy at some point. The Two most current systems are the Nintendo 3DS and the Sony PlayStation Portable. The PS Vita is about to come out, so I can’t give an honest analysis of it. That review will have to wait. As far as suggestions are concerned, I’ll say that these two can be compared much like the Wii to the PS3. A review for the PSP will be pointless at this point, as it’s about to become obsolete.

Cost from GameStop:

New at $170 and up

Used systems aren’t easily obtained yet

Mature rated games sold online by GameStop: 9

Teen rated games sold online by GameStop: 40

E rated games sold online by GameStop: 175

While there may not be many games out for this system yet, it can also play regular DS games. Some of the greatest Nintendo titles ever released can be found on this system, so I would suggest it even if you don’t intend to play games while traveling. It is just as enjoyable, in my opinion, to play a handheld at home as it is to use the big screen. Just don’t use it during class. I suggest any Zelda, Pokemon, and Mario games. Also look into the Resident Evil Series.

Thank you for reading! I’ll try to keep this page up to date as the industry evolves. Hopefully I’ve been some help in deciding what to buy. If you want any game suggestions for systems, message me or comment bellow!