Game on!

Need a little bit more fun? Maybe you got one of those nice big TVs after reading the last article, and you're looking for something a little more interactive to do with it...so we're going to talk about video games.

Currently, there are three main systems for video game consoles: the X-Box 360 by Microsoft, the Playstation 3 by Sony, and the Nintendo WII. These three have many similar features, like online play and being able to use online services such as Netflix, but we're going to look at some of the differences. There are, of course, some older systems that are still popular and still in use...some 'vintage' systems are quite valuable to certain collectors...and we'll talk a bit about those, too. First, though, let's look at the big three.

We'll start with the X-Box 360, Microsoft's latest video game platform. Versatile and relatively inexpensive, the X-Box 360 is a game system that has a lot to offer. More games are available for the 360 than either of the other two major systems, and these vary from action and combat games to more family-friendly games, though it's popularity seems rooted in it's many popular FPS (first-person shooter) games. These FPS, along with many other of it's games, also have the capability for online play...allowing you to play football on Madden 11 against an opponent from anywhere around the world, all by connecting your console to a broadband internet connection. Another great feature is the ability to upgrade the harddrive (where game data is stored, along with music and videos) on most units by simply popping the old drive off and popping a new one on. Recently, Microsoft brought out the Kinect for the 360, which is an accessory that works somewhat like a camera, and allows your movements to control games made for the Kinect...you become the controller.

Next, we're going to look at Sony's Playstation 3. A powerful processor and graphics engine drive Sony's latest console, along with the ability to work as a Blu-ray movie player. The PS3 is a major upgrade from their popular Playstation 2, offering built in networking to join seemlessly with your home network, and it's use of bluetooth for many wireless devices. While it's library of games is not as large as those available to the 360, it's a popular platform for sports games, large action games, and some of the quirky games that the playstation platforms have been known for. These also have the capability to play nearly all games made for the first Playstation (PS1) and some models of the PS3 can even play Playstation 2 (PS2) games...this is referred to as backwards compatable, and is usually highly sought after. Much like the 360's Kinect, Sony's Move for the PS3 is a motion-capture accessory, and allows you to 'get physical' with some games.

Nintendo has been a giant in the gaming industry for decades, and their latest system, the Nintendo WII, is a great, low-to-mid priced system that offers a lot of unique features. While the PS3 and the 360 have recently come out with their motion-capture accessories, the WII was the first system to truly make this popular. Their system, which is really popular for it's wide variety of family-friendly and group games, was designed to be easy-to-use for anyone from 8 to 80...indeed, some WII systems are being used in physical therapy wards and in retirement communities...but the WII does have it's serious side, too, with a wide variety of games available. It is also backwards compatable with most of Nintendo's Gamecube games.

Looking for some 'old school' gaming? Or maybe on a bit more of a budget than the newer gaming systems fit into...at TBGoods we carry some of the older systems that still let you get your game on. The Playstation 2 (PS2) as mentioned above, still stands as one of the most popular gaming systems, and doubles as a DVD player. The original X-Box is still very versatile in the games it offers in it's library. The Gamecube from Nintendo, with it's small size and library of family and party games, is great for kids (of all ages) to take along for parties and sleepovers. Whatever your gaming needs, be sure to check with TBGoods for our large selection of gaming systems, variety of available games and accessories, and any advice you may need for picking the right system for you.