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As a PC gamer myself, I have been challenged to explore the world of console gaming and let you, the awesome members of Cartmel College, into the big mystery of which one to choose out of the bewilderingly challenging list of three.

PlayStation 3

The PS3 may be the most expensive, but don’t be put off. This powerhouse comes with a nifty list of features, including blu-ray DVD playback, high definition graphics, wireless controllers and built-in wireless networking. The PS3 is basically a PC alternative, with built-in USB access and optional keyboard and mouse, and of course the included web browser. Games also come in very slightly cheaper than those for the Xbox.

Xbox 360

Substantially cheaper than the PS3, Microsoft’s Xbox 360 is also exceedingly similar, and you may find it difficult to choose between the two! However, it only features a normal DVD drive and has no built in hard drive or wireless gaming
controllers unless you opt for the more expensive Premium
version. The latest version comes with an HD DVD drive, which will unfortunately soon be obsolete as blu-ray dominates the field (right after I bought an external HD drive for my
computer. Damn!). The 360 can be used in conjunction with a Media Centre-using PC to stream both music and videos (and don’t worry, you won’t have to get Windows Vista if you don’t want to).

Nintendo Wii

Though its name may be unfortunate, the Wii is a major player in today’s world. It comes in as the cheapest of the three systems and has wireless controllers. It is revolutionary in using motion control technology that means your physical actions such as a swing or punch is recreated by your character on screen. Though in its
infancy now, the Wii is the best selling of the three consoles, and represents the future not only of gaming but the world of
computing as a whole.

So which one to get? If you want the full, hardcore classic gaming experience, the PS3 is your man, with stunning high-def graphics and excellent features. If you want to get in on the ground floor of exciting developing technology, the less-costly Nintendo Wii will provide you with hours of entertainment, or if you just want a cheap PS3 (or have a Halo obsession), stick to the 360. Myself? I think I’ll stick to my PC. Give me a mouse any day!