With four ways to game in the living room or office, buyers have more options than ever before. Here's our quick guide to what separates one system from another.
by Russ Fisher
Once upon a time, gamers would choose a console based on the available software library, focusing on titles exclusive to their preferred platform. But console exclusives have largely gone by the wayside, as publishers chase the revenue potential of a cross-platform release. So, there are new factors to think about when choosing a console; price is paramount, of course, but so are the hardware's media capabilities and audio-video specs. But perhaps most important is that elusive characteristic: attitude.
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Microsoft Xbox 360
Back in black, the Xbox 360 Elite boasts a strong lineup
Price: $199.99 (Arcade); $299.99 (Pro); $399.99 (Elite)
Who needs it: The All-Around Gamer
The Basics
Microsoft's console is the most firmly established player in the game today, with a huge library of titles, an incentive-based achievement system, and a robust online service that enables multiplayer action and features both movie and game downloads.
Xbox Live has two tiers of membership, Silver (free) and Gold ($49.99/year), offering varying ways to meet and organize players online and download extra game content like maps. Some downloads are free, but others need to be purchased by spending Microsoft points ($1.25 for 100 points) which can be bought online or via gift cards available in stores. Xbox 360 systems come with either a 60 GB or 120 GB hard drive, and can be equipped with a wireless network adaptor ($99.99).
Media and Extended Entertainment Capabilities
If you want to use the Xbox 360 for more than just a games machine, make sure yours has a hard drive -- most of its more advanced functions are crippled or disabled without one. All new 360s should come with HDMI video outputs, and if your TV supports the standard, it's by far the most convenient (and highest quality) way to hook them up.
As you'd expect from a Microsoft product, the 360 networks quickly and easily with Windows XP or Vista PCs in your house, allowing the game console to play music and videos stored on your computer's hard drive. Beyond the basic gaming options on Xbox Live, users can download movies and television programs (fees vary) in either standard or high definition, and Gold users can link their consoles to a Netflix account to stream content from their queue.
The Exclusive Games
Gears of War 2: Join Marcus Fenix and chums for the sequel to smash hit shooter Gears of War. Boasting expanded multiplayer, an all-new plot, and lots and lots of chainsaw death, it's a must for any growing lad.
Fable 2: Speaking of growing lads, this RPG lets you customize your own particular growing lad into whatever kind of hero you want to see. Will you be evil, kick chickens, and wipe out villages for kicks? Or will you spread happiness and joy like some kind of lute-wielding Easter bunny?
Halo 3: The world's biggest online console game features not only a new collection of maps, refines weapons and graphics, but the best way to capture and share your moments of triumph... and defeat.
System Breakdown Continues: PlayStation 3 >>
Posted: 18 Nov 2008
