No, I do not like console video game systems
No, I do not like console video game systems. Many people have asked me, “Hawk, you like video games so much, but you don’t have a [insert favorite console gaming system here]? What’s with that?” Let me explain: Console video game systems suck ass, and here’s why:
1) Video resolution. On a regular TV, NTSC here in this hemisphere, the resolution is approximately equivilant to 640×480. On my computer, I get 1024×768 *MINIMUM*. Even an HD signal would not beat that. I just picked up a sweet 19″ Samsung SyncMaster 910MP. This monitor/TV is *beautiful*! It’s big, sharp, bright, and puts my two CRTs to shame. It’s got an incredibly fast response time (something like 8 milliseconds) so it’s excellent for games. And you want me to use a regular NTSC TV signal to play games? HA! I wonder if I could even recognize the numbers on the HUD (Heads-Up Display).
2) Input devices. It’s true that you can hook up to a network now, and a headset, but this doesn’t beat the options available on a PC, specifically: keyboard and mouse. When playing a first-person shooter, such as Half-Life 2, it’s important to be able to slide from side to side. This is called strafing. When playing with a console controller, this is not possible. And if it were, using some kind of modification key, it’s difficult to turn and strafe at the same time. Also, when using my mouse to look around, I can zero in on a target at any speed, fast or slow. Using a console controller, you’ve got three speeds: stop, slow, and slower. Using a mouse, I can whip around to see who is shooting me and fire back while sliding into a doorway. Try that with a console controller. I dare you.
While I’m on a rant here, let me point out that Halo 2 has not been released for the PC yet. This sucks on so many levels. Thanks again, Micro$haft.
So, friend, no thanks. I’ll stick with my PC as it is the ultimate gaming platform. Plus, not having a console gaming system means that I’ve got a few less devices to dust.
Hallejulah!
There are a few games that play incredibly well on a console, but all in all they are expensive paperweights. I’ve had my Playstation and 2, and most of the time I use it for watching DVDs, something that it doesn’t handle particularly well.
Handheld gaming consoles are almost another matter. I love my gameboy – I can play a quick game of packman while waiting in line at the PO, or when I’m on a long flight. There’s nothing like a unit that’ll fit in your pocket and play games for hours on a whim.
Maybe in a few years I’ll consider getting a PSP. I don’t like the idea of having to buy movies specifically for the PSP, and the price is a bit too high for just casual enjoyment.
The fact is, gaming on a console can’t beat a PC, but portable gaming devices are a hell of a lot better than setting up a laptop.