Today, game consoles can be much more than the best video game console for kids or a must-have for serious gamers. Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft offer a variety of video game consoles with the Wii, the Playstation 3, and the Xbox. These consoles are so versatile and useful that many people build entire home entertainment systems around these consoles creating such experiences as the Wii home theater. Each of these offers a variety of unique features.
Nintendo Wii Buyers Guide
The Nintendo Wii offers unique opportunities for gamers to completely immerse themselves in games with Wii remotes, the console's controller device. Users strap on the device and, depending on the game, swing, shake, or position the device to control their actions in the game. Popular games for this console include the acclaimed Zelda Twilight Princess, Super Mario Wii, Wii Fit, and Metroid Prime Corruption games.
Because the Wii also offers Wi-Fi capability, users can also hold a Nintendo DS handheld system, which will function as an extra gaming control. Video games supported by Nintendo's GameCube can also be played on the Wii.
Sony Playstation 3
The Sony Playstation 3 can be used as the foundation for a digital media center. This console offers a number of features, including a hard drive that can be upgraded (the basic system offers a 20GB; while the premium system features 60GB), in addition to a Blu-Ray drive that will allow users to play Blu-ray movies, and an internal Wi-Fi. The blu-ray drive is one of the most popular features of the Playstation 3 making the Playstation blu-ray player one of the most competitive products even against non-gaming blu-ray players. Regular DVDs can also be played, and the system features an HDMI port that can be cabled to the high-definition access port of a High-Definition television, offering a maximum resolution of 1080p. The PlayStation 3 platform also supports the play of PlayStation and PlayStation 2 games.
Xbox 360 Elite Bundles
The Microsoft Xbox 360 features a faster processor, higher-resolution graphics, and more networking capabilities than the original Xbox system. This console also allows users to upgrade the system's hard drive to obtain extra movie or music storage capacity. The Elite 360, which features a sleek black case, was the first gaming system to feature a 120 GB hard drive, as well as an HDMI port allowing HD output. The Xbox 360 also allows users to play standard DVD movies. HD movies can be played with the addition of an HD DVD Player add-on. Users choosing to buy Xbox points for the Xbox Live service will be able to download all kinds of games and movies to supplement their media experience as well.
Portable Gaming Systems
Now, Sony and Nintendo offer portable gaming systems that offer endless travel entertainment opportunities. Choose from the Sony PSP, the Nintendo DS, or the Nintendo DS Lite.
Gamers looking for portable multisensory gaming experiences can enjoy the high-resolution graphics and 4.3 inch screen display featured by the Sony PSP, or PlayStation Portable console. The internal WiFi capabilities offer users the opportunity to play opposite other gamers using the same handheld device. UMD movies can also be played on the PSP. Gamers can also access the Internet, and upload movies, videos, or pictures for storage on this gaming console.
Nintendo users can choose from the DS or DS Lite. The original DS offers Wi-Fi capabilities, color LCD touch screens, headphone and microphone jacks, and stereo sound with speakers. Graphics include both 2D and 3D acceleration. Users can access the Internet at Wi-Fi sports via the Opera Web browser. Game Boy Advance video games are fully supported on this platform. The DS Lite allows users to play video games and to access the Internet. The DS Lite contains all the same features as the DS, but weighs 20 percent less than the DS, and is available in a variety of colors, including white, black, and pink.
Other handheld systems are also available. These include the Nintendo Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and Game Boy Advance SP, as well as the Micro, also made by Nintendo, and the NeoGeo Pocket Color.
Classic Games from History's Top Video Game Consoles
Relive childhood memories with vintage video games and consoles. Some old and some not-so-old games and consoles are still available to nostalgic gamers. PlayStation and PlayStation 2 games from Sony are still easily available, as well as Microsoft's regular Xbox games. Nintendo offers memories such as Super Mario Brothers or the Legend of Zelda, still available on NES, Super Nintendo, or Nintendo game consoles. GameCube games are also easy to find and purchase.
Blast back all the way to gaming's past with Atari, Sega, Intellevision, or even Commodore64. Enjoy games like Sonic the Hedgehog, Donkey Kong, or Pac-Man. If one particular vintage arcade game is particularly appealing, consider indulging "to the max" with a full-sized arcade machine of the 1980s. Enjoy the gaming experience the way it was originally meant to be enjoyed. It didn't disappoint then, and it won't disappoint now!