Home - The Star
December 23, 2010
Star Features


 

Trinity of Choice - Three game consoles lead the pack

You can save the world! Or a least a virtual version of it.

Despite all sorts of challenges, interest in video games is actually growing. Today's games are rich in graphics and storylines; I mean, truly engrossing. And, you don't need to be a geek to truly appreciate a good gaming experience.

There are three consoles that provide an awesome gaming experience. The other game console offerings are there, but don't rise to the title of awesome.

Sadly, I can't definitively say which is 'the best' because they are all really good. So, let's get right to it.

Nintendo Wii

The Wii made a splash a couple of years ago when it was released, because it truly prompted people to get off their couch and interact with their body and not just their thumbs. For about US$200.00 (J$17,200) you get a Wii console with two controllers and two games - enough for fun, right out of the box. The bundled games include the Wii Resort and the hugely popular Wii Sports.

Kids and adults new to gaming will immediately gravitate to the Wii's clean interface and capable online multi-player environment. Long-time Nintendo lovers will really appreciate exclusive titles like Super Mario Bros and King Kong.

Microsoft Xbox 360

For a $100 more, the 360 is almost a different category of game console. Serious games lover will love the large selection of triple-A and exclusive game titles available for the 360, the ability to by-pass the physical shop-and-downloads games directly to the device and store games plus data on the included 4GB or optional 250GB internal hard drive.

As for the graphics, it will blow your mind.

In addition to games, the 360 offers Netflix for streaming movies and TV shows (though access is limited here in Jamaica). Stream to and from other Microsoft devices in your home like your Windows 7 PC, log directly into Facebook and Twitter or even watch a DVD all from the single-game console.

Another big plus for the 360, a great online-gaming experience. Who needs friends in your living room, when you can play with friends from around the island, or across the globe?

Sony Playstation 3

Popularly referred to as the PS3, this game console blurs the line between console and entertainment centre. But, let's start with the gaming. Again, PS3 boasts a downloadable and exclusive triple-A game titles with fantastic graphic rendering for game play.

Like the 360, PS3 offers streaming, online multiplayer support and DVD playback, but the PS3 sets itself apart with an onboard Blu-ray disc player, 3D support and a user replaceable hard drive. All this for about US$300. Remarkable!

Now, motion control is the hottest thing in gaming. Say goodbye to carpal tunnel syndrome and hello to a fitter you, not to mention a richer gaming experience. Wii faces stiff competition as the leader in motion thanks to the Playstation Move controller, and the 360 controller less Kinect add on. In all cases, you can stand up in front of your TV and move your body to navigate your character on the screen. You'll never need to call your kids lazy again!

With no DVD or Blu-ray support and its basic graphics, hardcore gamers tend not to rank the Wii. PS3 lags behind the 360 in ratings for its online services. Some people complain that too much space is needed to fully utilise the controller-less gaming on the 360. So, each console has its advantages and disadvantages.

Ultimately, the choice is yours. And choice is great!

Special holiday message:

I wish for you a safe, happy and holy holiday season with God's richest blessings.

Got a Tech Glitch? Seek your Tech Fix at Facebook.com/ carlettedeleon.

Bookmark and Share
Home | Gleaner Blogs | Gleaner Online | Go-Jamaica | Go-Local | Feedback | Disclaimer | Advertisement | Privacy Policy | Contact Us