Tech Fight! Which Gaming Console Rules the Schoolyard?

It's an age-old battle. At least, that's what it feels like at this point. Since Nintendo challenged Atari eons ago (in technology years), the same debate has raged - which gaming console reigns supreme? Which has the best hardware, the best game selection, the best online support? Which is the most fun? For the love of Mario, what do I choose?!

Well, that depends. Different gamers have different priorities. An online article can't decide those for you. But here's a basic breakdown of what each current console has to offer, to help you find your way.

Nintendo Wii

Overview: Nintendo's newest console's claim to fame is its motion-sensing controls. Easy to learn and kid-friendly, it has carved out an enviable niche as the consummate party machine. Nintendo has succeeded where few other companies have - putting a gaming console into the homes of non-gamers. Plenty of consumers who wouldn't know Master Chief if he shot them in the leg are hopping on the console bandwagon - the highly interactive game play is perfect for entertaining friends, whether they're six or sixty. Many are also taking advantage of the Wii Fit, an exercise program which presents aerobics in game form and charts your body's improvements.

Highs: Huge fun factor, especially for groups. The motion sensing controls have truly been an industry changer, with both Sony and Microsoft racing to put their own mark on the trail blazed by Nintendo. Expect some exciting improvements to the technology in the coming years.

Lows: What Nintendo has in fun, it lacks in graphics. The Wii makes no secret about what it is (a casual gaming machine) and what it isn't (a graphics powerhouse). Still, it would be nice to see Nintendo step into the HD arena at some point. Motion control plus high-definition would be a powerful one-two punch.

Sony PlayStation 3

Overview: Sony's newest console is a potent machine, offering stout internals and a nice complement of audio and video ports. The PS3 came late to the next-gen console war, lagging about a year behind Microsoft. It does, however, have the distinction of being the only game console with a Blu-ray player.

Highs: Exterior design is beautiful, and pairs perfectly with the sleek new designs for TVs and sound equipment. The Cell technology used in their processors has good potential for longevity as game programmers learn to take advantage of it. Game play graphics are sharp and clear, and surround sound is crisp and punchy. The system is also very quiet - sometimes you forget the thing is even on! The built-in Blu-ray player is a value-added bonus, offering a rare package of gaming and high-def movies. Online play is free.

Lows: While online play is free, PlayStation Network is a ghost town compared to Microsoft's Xbox Live. The PS3 also has less new games to offer than the other consoles, so the lack of variety may leave you frustrated at times. Also, the size and shape of the case are problematic - making it unwieldy and inconvenient to include in limited spaces along with other peripherals.

Microsoft Xbox 360

Overview: Microsoft's second foray into the gaming world has seen mixed results. The 360's journey has been blessed with peaks and cursed with valleys. Despite its issues, though, the 360 delivers a very solid all-around package.

Highs: The 360 boasts a large selection of games, having scored some powerful exclusives such as the Halo series, the Fable series, and the Mass Effect series (in my opinion, one of the best and most influential series in the last decade). It also sports strong graphics and sound capability, and has kept up with the demands of new game releases. The ability to change the look of the machine with custom faceplates will appeal to some, and its medium size and sensible-but-stylish shape make it easier to fit in with other hardware. Never to be overlooked is the Xbox Live, the juggernaut of online console gaming. While it costs a few dollars per month, Live is an ever-evolving community, with Microsoft continually pouring improvements and features into it.

Lows: The 360 has become well-known for the infamous Red Ring of Death. While Microsoft does fix this hardware failure for free, it is annoying to be without a console for days to weeks at a time, especially for those who also use their console as a DVD player. The machine is also jet-engine loud. You will likely have to bump up the game or movie sound a notch or two to cover it.

The Final Verdict

Each gamer has different needs, and in the end each must decide what fits their life and game play style best. However, for me, the all-around winner is the Xbox 360. It's a solid gaming machine with good all-around performance, a versatile selection of games, and stellar online support. Also to be watched is Microsoft's new endeavor, Project Natal, which will challenge Nintendo for the motion-sensing crown. According to rumors, the body motion-sensing system may be available as early as Holiday 2010.