There are many reasons you might want a console. Maybe you’re after the latest and greatest hardware; perhaps you prefer a handheld model that can be taken on the go; or, you could simply be looking for the best value console.
The PlayStation 5 offers super-fast loading times and a huge games library that includes some of the best exclusives to date. It can also support PSVR virtual reality.
PlayStation 2
The PlayStation 2 was the first sixth-generation console to hit the market. It competed with Sega’s Dreamcast, Nintendo’s GameCube and Microsoft’s Xbox.
In addition to playing a wide selection of games, the PS2 also doubled as a DVD player and offered backward compatibility with its predecessor’s game library. This was a major selling point, and allowed Sony to dominate games real estate in the homes of gamers.
The PS2 was also the birthplace of a number of popular series, including God of War, Metal Gear Solid and Final Fantasy. However, many of the most successful games came from third-party publishers. One such game was Square’s wildly popular Kingdom Hearts series, which saw several main entries released during the PS2’s 13-year lifespan. The PS2’s controller is also considered one of the best-designed console controllers ever made. It is small and ergonomic, while still offering plenty of functionality. It could be set up vertically or horizontally, allowing players to play in any position.
Xbox 360
Despite a lack of a dedicated disc drive, this seventh generation console was able to sell more than 84 million units. It’s regarded as one of the top gaming consoles ever thanks to its groundbreaking motion-sensing technology and crisp graphics, but also for its wide library of games that include some of the best exclusives from Sony and Microsoft.
While hardware reliability problems and excessive DVD drive noise have been cited as flaws, it’s the fact that this system managed to revolutionize how gamers play games and help make the concept of gaming more mainstream that earns it its spot among the top video game consoles. Its curved design looks like an artistic piece of sculpture and serves to cool the system as it runs.
With a massive catalog of games, a lower price tag than its rival PS5 and the option to buy a VR-ready model, this is easily the top video game console out there right now.
PlayStation 5
The PlayStation 5 is the newest next-generation console and one of the best video game consoles. It can play in up to 4K/120fps and features a super-speedy SSD that dramatically reduces load times. It also supports virtual reality with a compatible headset.
Two years since its release, the PlayStation 5 is still considered a top console. While it may not have as robust of an exclusive game library as the rival Xbox Series X, its technical specifications and gaming performance capabilities put it in a league of its own.
The PS5 can play games at up to 4K/120fps, features an ultra-speedy SSD and is capable of 3D spatial audio for a truly immersive gaming experience. It can also play Blu-rays and is a great console for streaming content. Its only real drawback is its large size, which may make it unsuitable for most entertainment centers. A version with a digital download only option is available, though.
Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Switch is a handheld/home console hybrid that combines the best of both worlds. It offers a large library of exclusive first-party titles, including Super Mario Odyssey and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. It also has games that appeal to players of all ages, which makes it a great choice for families.
The Switch isn’t as powerful as Sony and Microsoft’s newest consoles, but it is an impressive gaming system. It’s also more affordable than the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S, making it an excellent choice for those looking for an entry-level console with some of the best gaming has to offer.
While the Atari 2600 may not be considered one of the top video game consoles, it’s still a historically significant piece of hardware that helped pave the way for the modern gaming industry. Its sleek design and innovative features set the stage for the consoles that would follow it.