Gaming Consoles 101

Don't know the 360 from PS3 or Wii? There are a few gaming consoles out there and before you invest in one as a gift, you need to know know more about them. Dan Ackerman from CNET.com was here to share his gaming knowledge.

Microsoft Xbox 360
For: Serious gamers, Netflix subscribers, social gamers who like playing with friends online.
Pro: Low entry price -- $199; Best online community (Xbox Live); great Netflix streaming; Popular exclusive games such as Halo and Left 4 Dead.
Con: Xbox Live costs an extra $50/year; no Blu-ray or popular games like God of War.
Best games: Modern Warfare 2; Dragon Age: Origins; Beatles Rock Band

Sony PlayStation 3
For: Home theater fans, fans of specific game series like God of War and Gran Tourismo
Pro: Includes Blu-ray drive, starting at $299; some popular exclusive games; free online multiplayer
Con: Most expensive console; missing some popular games (Halo, etc.); Netflix streaming is clunky, compared to Xbox 360; if your friends are playing a game online, they are probably playing on the Xbox 360.
Best games: Ratchet and Clank; Guitar Hero/Rock Band; Batman: Arkham Asylum

Nintendo Wii
For: Family and party gamers
Pro: Starts at $199; fun motion controls; tons of games
Con: Few standout games; no DVD/Blu-ray/streaming video capabilities.
Best games: New Super Mario Bros. Wii; Wii Fit Plus

Nintendo DSi
For: Gamers on the go
Pro: Dual screens, built-in Webcam; Tons of games
Con: iPhone is becoming the most important portable game console; Not that different from the previouis version of the DS
Best games: Legend of Zelda Spirit Tracks; Scribblenauts

For more information, visit CNET.com.
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