Ok, over at http://gretchen.pirillo.com/ the discussion has been started over what gaming console is the best… Here’s my take on it, and advice to anyone looking to get a game console…Xbox – too new, only a few games and a planned obsolences model (wait for Xbox2) Frankly the Xbox specs where impressive from the PC world over 2 years ago. Now, its too slow to run the latest games for the PC. Microsofts biggest push when promoting the Xbox when it announced it was the fact that PC game companies could easily port their games to the Xbox. That may be true, but now that the specs are that of a slow computer (733mhz P3 processor, 8-10 gig HD, etc) all you are buying is an old computer with a great video card to play PC games. Also, Xbox is only the start from Microsoft, there is more to come, think Tivo and Xbox combined :). If you like the Xbox, wait for the model they come out with or add ons which will make it more complete towards Xmas.Gamecube – If you like kids games or simple games then this might be the box. Have a GBA? Then they work together. Graphics are not impressive, controlers are awakward but give it a chance. Not granted there are adult games for the gamecube, but unless you want something with a handle and small discs to take over to your friends, the gamecube just doesn’t hold a candle to a PS2 or Xbox. I would encourage you to look at it however, since it does have some niche games that you won’t find on other platforms (Luigi’s Mansion, Pikman, etc).PS2 – 100’s of games, problem is picking the best ones. Backward compatible with PS one games. Great controllers, expandability coming. Will be able to run Linux later this year. USB ports, Firewire ports, soon a Hard drive and network card. Plays DVD’s with no extra cost. Dolby 5.1 digital outputs (Makes sound great!) Component video out (5 wires to your TV) for great video. Games – Grand Theft Auto 3, Final Fantasy 10, Metal Gear Solid 2, Gran Turismo 3, Any EA Sports Game, SSX Tricky, and sooo many more…But wait, what are the PS2’s downsides? So say its slow and not enough memory, etc. True, but here’s the facts, don’t be sway’d by the mhz myth. Speed of machine doesn’t mean everything. Games are specifically written for the “emotion engine” that the PS2 has not just PC games moved to the Xbox. In a way this is what separates the PS2 and Gamecube from the Xbox. Also, we are now seeing 2nd generation games that are pushing the limits of the PS2 and it is doing some amazing things no one thought would be possible when it launched. But Xbox has a Hard drive. True, but so will the PS2 this summer, and really, what are you going to use the hard drive for? Save games? caching the game data to give the allusion that the Xbox is faster then it really is? The Xbox can play DVD’s as well. True, but you have to spend $30 to add that option. Of course, you do have to have a memory card for a PS2 to play DVD’s as well.So my best reccommendation, and I reccommendation I have made since the PS2 has come out. Go with a PS2 you won’t regret it. I have played all the game systems, most of the games available and will stand 100% by the fact that if you get a PS2 you will be completely satisfied.
