Console Considerations

The last console I bought was a PS3. Way back when. It’s served me rather well, though I will be the first to admit that my game catalogue was rather small compared to when I was younger. Such is life I guess.

I have been, and continue to be, an avid PC gamer. These past few years, the portability of a laptop has been the largest boon. It certainly helps that there are thousands of more games, and that each game is arguably cheaper than on console.

That said, there are particular games on consoles that attract attention. I am not a FPS fan, so that rules out nearly every XBONE exclusive there is. I prefer the strategic/rpg type game, and that’s where Playstation lives. I don’t have, nor do I plan on purchasing a 4K TV anytime soon, so that certainly helps with some decisions. No need for a PS4 Pro. And the PS4 slim is $50 off for a few more days. FF15, Horizon, Uncharted, Last of Us, Last Guardian… all of interest to me. All at crazy price points.

Anyhoot, let’s compare for a minute.

Pros

Mobile (with a laptop)
More games available
No monthly costs
Used for more than games, like banking, picture editing, browsing, etc…
Individual games are cheap ($10-$50)

Cons

Expensive initial setup for gaming ($1500-$2000)
Local multiplayer is complicated
Requires a lot of configuration/tweaks to make it work

PS4

Pros

Exclusive game titles
Lower initial cost (~$300)
Limited configuration requirements
Can be used as a media hub/center
Playing with kids is easier
VR?

Cons

Multiplayer has a monthly cost
Smaller game selection
Not mobile
Individual games are more expensive ($70-$80)

When you get down to it, the comparison boils down to “do I want to pay $300 for the chance to play specific games?” I’ll be honest, given the amount of money saved on other hobbies, that’s not so much a barrier to entry right now…