Video game graphics are becoming more and more advanced by the minute, multimedia capabilities are improving and gaming is becoming more and more common every day. In our world of advanced technology, where social networking and interactive gameplay are now mainstream, is it any wonder that video game consoles and video gaming in general have become so popular?
For both old and young, and everyone in between, video game consoles and video gaming are an important source of leisure and entertainment, education and social interaction. Gaming consoles are a crucial feature for any entertainment center, and some are a worthy alternative to any handheld PDA or multimedia device. Consoles like the Xbox 360, PS3 and Nintendo Wii have truly revolutionized the idea of what a gaming system can do.
On this site, you'll find articles on video game consoles, consumer guides and comprehensive reviews on the best video game consoles available. This information will help you make an informed decision on which video game console is right for you.
A video game console is a major purchase and should be the product of careful consideration and review. Choosing a video game console that suits your mode or style of gaming can be a bit tricky, but you'll reap the benefit of selecting just the right system. The system you choose should provide a variety of game titles, offer multimedia features to enhance its functionality and everyday use, host an online community and provide help and support for technical issues. Below are the criteria TopTenREVIEWS used to evaluate video game consoles:
Features
Video game consoles need to be able to connect to an online service for additional downloads or social networking features. A good system will also be able to play games from previous game consoles from the same company. Though video gaming is the primary purpose of these units, additional multimedia features like video and music players, web browsers and other functions greatly enhance a video game consoles functionality.
Performance
With heavy demands for video output, graphic generation and response time being placed on video game consoles, it is important to find one that offers the performance suitable for your needs without burning out or breaking down. The device should be able to play even the most demanding games and allow multiple people to play at once.
Online Community
Since video gaming can take place between gamers all across the world, it is important to consider what community features a video game console offers, including features like price, profile and ranking options. A good gaming console will also offer features like Netflix, game downloads and apps.
Technical Support
A video game consoles manufacturer should provide timely and comprehensive help and support for technical issues by offering several contact methods, including online chat, telephone and email. They should provide detailed information about each of their products, as well as a FAQs page. Also, look for a manufacturer that offers a good warranty on new products.
As you can see, there are quite a few aspects to consider before making a final decision on which video game console fits your lifestyle best. Each system offers a unique style of gaming, and your specific needs and style will determine which video game console is right for you.
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| Ratings | 9.73 | 9.38 | 9.08 | 8.50 | 6.75 | |||||
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| Features | ||||||||||
| Online Service | Xbox Live | Nintendo Network | PlayStation Network | WiiConnect24 | Dynamic Network | |||||
| Annual Online Subscription Cost (US Dollars) | 60 | |||||||||
| Game Media | DVD | Wii U Optical Disc | Blu-Ray Disk | Wii Optical Disc | DVD-ROM | |||||
| Available Memory Upgrade | ||||||||||
| Backward Compatability | Xbox | Wii | PlayStation | GameCube | PlayStation | |||||
| Microphone | Headset & Kinect | GamePad | Bluetooth | N/A | Headset | |||||
| Number of Controller Inputs | 4 | 2 (GamePad) + 4 (Wii) | 7 | 4 | 2 | |||||
| Software Updates | ||||||||||
| Controller Battery Life (hours) | 50 | 5 | 20 | 37 | ||||||
| Width (inches) | 12 | 10.6 | 11.4 | 1.75 | 9.1 | |||||
| Height (inches) | 7.2 | 1.8 | 2.6 | 6 | 1.1 | |||||
| Depth (inches) | 11.5 | 6.8 | 11.4 | 8.5 | 6 | |||||
| Weight (pounds) | 10.9 | 3.5 | 7.1 | 2.7 | 1.6 | |||||
| Components | ||||||||||
| GPU (megahertz) | 500 | 3,000 | 550 | 243 | 147.5 | |||||
| Processor (megahertz) | 500 | 3,000 | 500 | 729 | 299 | |||||
| RAM (megabytes) | 512 | 2,000 | 256 | 88 | 32 | |||||
| Standard Storage Capacity | 250GB | 32GB | 160GB | 512MB | 2MB | |||||
| Wi-Fi | ||||||||||
| Video | ||||||||||
| Max Video Format | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p | 480p | 1024p | |||||
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| Connectivity | ||||||||||
| Multi A/V Output Ports | N/A | |||||||||
| HDMI Ports | N/A | |||||||||
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| Ethernet Port | ||||||||||
| Headphone | ||||||||||
| Flash Card | ||||||||||
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| Camera | Kinect (optional) | GamePad | PlayStation Eye (optional) | N/A | EyeToy (optional) | |||||
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| Warranty (years) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | |||||