Because of the corona virus, most people currently spend more time in the apartment than in the fresh air. But what to do when the last book has been read and the favorite series has been viewed for the twelfth time? If you are thinking of buying a game console, for example, you will get an overview of the most popular alternatives here.
The PC: host in terms of bandwidth
No platform is as rich in different content as the Windows PC or laptop. There are all genres of games on digital video game marketplaces such as Steam and the Epic Games Store. There are often titles on the PC that are not available from the competition – especially when it comes to genres such as real-time strategy, simulations or indie games, i.e. games by independent developers. In addition, there are countless offers for often free browser games or contact points where classic games can also be played free of charge. In addition, high-end PC games – depending on the title and existing hardware – often offer the greater wow factor compared to consoles when it comes to graphics.
There are also disadvantages to the PC. On the one hand, you need a suitable device if you want to play current publications smoothly and with higher graphics settings. So it can be a good thing that four-digit amounts come together when you buy for the first time. In addition, you should have a basic technical understanding, as it can lead to technical problems – for example, do not start games at all or, among other things, the correct drivers have to be installed so that you can also hear sound and the like.
PlayStation 4 and Xbox One: the power consoles
The closest to the PC are the PlayStation 4 Pro and the Xbox One X. This is particularly exciting for beginners. Although you have to make a few compromises in terms of graphic brilliance, the consoles also offer numerous advantages for newcomers. For example, only a very low level of technical understanding is required to be able to play games – for example, to set up the connection after the first startup, if you also want to go online with the device, for example to shop in the system's digital stores or online to play against others. Apart from that, the devices can be really easily connected to the domestic TV.
In addition, the consoles are usually significantly cheaper than a gaming PC when they are first purchased. Including the first games, a second controller for a teammate on site and the like, you should get there with up to 500 euros. There are also so-called bundles with fixed games that are often even cheaper – for example the PlayStation 4 Pro with the game "Death Stranding" or the Xbox One X with "Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order". There are also basic versions of the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, which are not quite as powerful, but are a bit cheaper.
Which of the two consoles you choose should be made dependent on the game selection that is more attractive to you and whether you have friends who already have a PlayStation or Xbox. The platforms offer exclusive titles that can only be played on the corresponding system. In addition, it is not possible to play with a friend if, for example, you buy a PlayStation yourself, but the friend owns an Xbox.
Nintendo Switch: The Transportable
The situation is similar with the Switch from Nintendo, which is also particularly suitable for children, because there are a lot of games for the whole family. At the same time, there are also numerous titles for adults on the system. So it's not as if only the kids get their money's worth.
Despite the comparable price, the hardware is once again weaker than that of Sony's and Microsoft's consoles, but the Switch has a great advantage to offer: You can not only connect it to the TV, but also as a handheld – so on the go or in the whole apartment – use because it has a built-in screen. In addition to the conventional model, there is a lite version that is already available for less than 200 euros. However, this can only be played in portable mode, so connecting to the TV is not possible here.
The smartphone: what entry hurdle?
If you have no idea about gaming at all, you could first use your own smartphone. The games offered there – with exceptions – often offer less depth of play, but mobile games seem to be perfect for beginners, even if they are mostly smiled at by established gamers.
Those who are familiar with their smartphone do not have to fear an entry hurdle. A video game on iOS or Android is installed just as easily as another app. The big plus is that most people already have a smartphone and therefore do not have to buy a new device. In addition, many of the games available are free. With these titles, however – as with the other corresponding apps – you have to increasingly accept advertising and in-app purchases.
Alternatively, Apple now offers its Apple Arcade service. The subscription actually runs like for example with Netflix. After a free trial subscription has expired, you pay a monthly fee of just under five euros and can download and play all the games included on your iPhone or iPad as much as you like. Advertising and in-app purchases are completely eliminated here.