Whether you’re a fresher in the gaming jungle or an old hand looking for a new console, now’s the time to get into play mode.
Whether you’re a fresher in the gaming jungle or an old hand looking for a new console, now’s the time to get into play mode.
Sudipto Majumdar
Prince of Persia, Need for Speed, consoles… If these words sound like Greek to you, you are in Luddite purgatory, denying yourself one of the greatest pleasures the entertainment industry has to offer — gaming. Fear not, redemption is at hand. To join the ranks of the converted, you can start by getting yourself a game console. That’s easier said than done, which is where this article comes in. There are three parameters that you should consider while evaluating these gaming platforms: cost of hardware, choice of games and cost.
The personal computer: Don’t be hasty in discarding your PC. One of the greatest draws is the choice of games. In India at least, the choice of games available on the PC is more than other platforms. Whether you’re looking to buy legal or pirated titles, the widest choice of games is available for the PC. If you’re interested in playing online games the PC is your best choice.
Damage: A PC can cost Rs30,000-40,000, depending on specifications like graphics.
Sony’s PlayStation: The much awaited PlayStation3 (PS3) is finally going to be launched this November. But don’t start drooling yet — it still has to prove itself. With games marked at $75 for each title, you’ll need to be well endowed to afford them. While Sony promises backward compatibility (you’ll be able to play PS 2 titles on your new PS3), gamers have their doubts. If you want a cheap but good gaming experience, and are not interested in online gaming, go for the PS2.
Damage: The PS3 should cost about Rs25,000. The PS2 costs Rs8,000 in the grey market and a few thousand rupees more from dealers.
Microsoft’s Xbox 360: The Xbox 360 is one generation ahead of the PS2. It has loads of new features such as the ability to connect to Windows PC for media sharing. It comes in two sets — the premium and the core, with the former having a 20GB hard drive, a wireless controller and a headset.
Except for a few of their blockbuster titles, the choice of Xbox 360 games available in India is not very large. This may change with Xbox 360 officially entering the Indian market.
Damage: The Xbox 360 costs about Rs20,000.
Nintendo’s Wii: The Wii is slated for release later this year. The Wii is not competing with more serious consoles like the PS3 or the Xbox 360. Watch out for Wii’s motion sensitive controller. Games will be priced at around $40 (Rs1,800) and retro games will cost between Rs195 and Rs391. But in the range of games available, the Nintendo falls short when compared to the others.
Damage: It is reasonably priced at at Rs11,499 ($249.99).
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