Games Consoles

Comprehensive Guide to the Major Games Consoles

Games consoles have been around for over 30 years, but ever since the first Atari 2600 appeared, the technology inside them has developed exponentially. Nowadays, gamers can choose between high-powered beasts like the Xbox One X, the PS4 Pro or the Nintendo Switch. All of them have their own special strengths and attract certain types of gamer. This guide will help buyers find the perfect console for their gaming needs.

Video Gaming Evolution

Before we introduce the latest generation of consoles, a short introduction might help people who are struggling to find the ideal system.

Consoles are basically dedicated gaming computers. They usually don't come with keyboards or mice (although you can add them if you like), and they aren't designed to run office applications. Instead, they are made to deliver high quality graphics and audio, with sophisticated multiplayer features and gaming controllers which suit specific types of game. Recent versions have also integrated online connectivity, allowing owners to stream movies or TV, and to access social networking sites in between playing their favourite games.

The modern console sector is more or less divided between three major companies: Nintendo, Sony and Microsoft (who make the Xbox family). This buyers' guide will look at what each of them has to offer, helping you make the right purchase.

Quick Run Through the 7th Generation Gaming Consoles

Right now, console technology is about to enter its 9th generation, while systems like the PS4 Pro and the Xbox One X represent the “8.5th generation”. However, older consoles may still be in use and available to buy. We don't need to spend too much time on the 7th generation, but it's still handy to know what they have to offer, as you can pick up an Xbox 360 or PS3 for very little and they still offer a fun gaming experience.

The Xbox 360 was introduced in 2005 by Microsoft as an update for their bestselling Xbox console, and games were released until 2017 – meaning that a huge library was created. The 360 came in two main packages: the “Core” package with the console, a TV connector and a controller, and the “Premium” version with extra memory and a removable hard drive. They were then joined by an “Elite” package with extra storage space and a new matte black look, as well as the “Arcade” package which featured extra memory (not extra hard disk space). And the final version was the “Super Elite” package, released in 2010. This package came with 250GB of disk space, two wireless controllers and various versions based around popular franchises, such as the Simpsons, Final Fantasy, Gears of War or Halo 3.

The PlayStation 3 was the 360's main competition. Released in 2006, it continues to have a loyal fan base, with the odd title being released as late as mid 2018. The PS3 came in two versions: a normal version and a slimline alternative, which eventually eased out the first design and became standard. Two packages were available, including 160GB and 320GB hard disk options, and because games required installation, the extra space made a real difference. A Blu-ray player came as standard, as well as USB ports, Wi-Fi and a single controller, and Sony encouraged the development of peripherals, such as the PlayStation Eye – a camera/microphone hybrid for use in multiplayer gaming. The PS3 also led the way in terms of introducing Bluetooth peripherals, making gameplay even more mobile.

The Nintendo Wii was also part of gaming's 7th generation. Replacing the Gamecube in 2006, the Wii outsold Sony and Microsoft's consoles, and focused on providing family entertainment – but in a totally new way. For the first time, a console had been built around motion sensing technology, which Nintendo harnessed in interactive action and sports games. This was enhanced by additional editions like the Wii Family Edition and the Wii Mini (which shrunk what was already an extremely lightweight console). At the same time, Nintendo's Mii network introduced a child-friendly networking site for sharing gaming experiences – which all helped to sell the Wii to parents.

Moving into the 8th Generation

Around 2012-13, everything changed yet again, and the 8th generation of consoles started to appear on the shelves in the form of the Nintendo Wii U, Sony's PlayStation 4 and the Xbox One. Again, these early systems have been superseded by updates, so be aware that they may become gradually obsolete if you choose to buy them. Nonetheless, they still offer plenty of fun, so buyers need to know about them.

Firstly, the Sony PlayStation 4 (or PS4) replaced the PS3 in 2013, adding extra graphical power and upping the hard disk capacity to either 500GB (in standard models) or what seemed like a massive 1TB. The PS4 overhauled the Dual-Shock controllers, making them more comfortable while adding a touchpad. And it came equipped for out of the box connection to high definition TVs, without the need to buy an HDMI cable. Importantly, the PS4 was optimised for use with the PlayStation Network – Sony's thriving online gaming platform, where players can compete with each other or download extra content (usually for a fee).

Microsoft responded with the Xbox One, which arrived in 2013 as well. Slightly besting the PS4 in processing speed (1.75GHz compared with 1.6GHz), the Xbox One also sported 8GB of RAM and like the PS4 was designed with the demands of high definition visuals in mind. The Xbox Kinect add-on provides a motion-sensing element, while most games make use of the Xbox Live online platform, which like the PSN provides a forum for multiplayer gaming and downloads.

The original Xbox One was joined in 2016 by a little brother, the Xbox One S. More or less identical in most respects to the original One, the S was noticeably more compact, came with support for 4K Blu-ray discs, as well as HDR online streaming – keeping pace with the way entertainment consumption and gaming were heading.

Finally, Nintendo released their Wii U in 2012. The Wii U was notable for its unusual controller, which resembled a handheld gaming system and featured a large touchpad. This allowed games to use either the TV screen or the touchscreen. Games could be transferred from the TV to the controller as well, allowing parents to watch their favourite shows without disrupting gameplay, while the motion capture systems of the Wii were updated and added to the controller. Unlike the PS4, the Wii U is backward compatible with older Wii games, and its online platform, the Nintendo Network, is free to use. As usual, various bundles were released, including the 8GB memory “Basic” version and the 32GB “Deluxe” bundle.

Taking Things Forward: The Next Generation of Games Consoles

Since the Xbox One, the PS4 and the Wii U were launched, all three major games companies have released new systems which are more than just cosmetic updates on their older systems. The PS4 Pro, the Xbox One X and the Nintendo Switch are the most advanced consoles around, and they are the ones that most gaming fans will look for. So let's introduce their pros and cons in more detail.

Released in 2017, the Xbox One X updates the original Xbox One in the visual and hardware departments. Most importantly, the X accommodates genuine 4K graphics, resulting in a massive upgrade for all styles of game. The graphics speed has also been upped from 1.3TFLOPS to a massive 6TFLOPs, and plenty of titles have been released which take advantage of the console's visuals. But on the other hand, the X retails for quite a bit more than an Xbox One S, and there aren't any exclusives which really show off what it can do. However, it's the same size as the streamlined S model, so if you're looking for a graphically sophisticated upgrade for your Xbox One and have limited space, the X will be extremely appealing.

Sony also decided to upgrade their PS4 to an “8.5th generation” model, launching their PS4 Pro in 2016. The new PS4 came with twice as much graphical processing power, raising its speed from 1.84TFLOPs to 4.2TFLOPs. The CPU added extra speed as well, while an extra 1GB of memory was allotted to non-game applications, helping to run things like YouTube or Netflix more smoothly, while another USB socket was added as well. As with the Xbox One X, the main selling point of the PS4 Pro is graphical. The new model offers games in much higher resolution, with finer contrasts and lighting effects, adding atmosphere and opening the way for developers to create some pretty amazing environments. But it's worth knowing that the PS4 isn't capable of true 4K (unlike the Xbox One X), and it's also bigger than the PS4, so space constraints could come into play.

Nintendo's next generation system debuted in March 2017 along with the Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – one of the year's most astonishing games. It also has a unique design. The Nintendo Switch has two modes. In one configuration, the console sits in a “dock” and resembles a standard system. But it can be removed from the dock and attached to controllers called “joycons”, forming a handheld system – so it's a kind of hybrid of systems like the Xbox and the PS Vita. However, while the controller and the motion sensing systems make for some absorbing, flexible gameplay, the Switch has its drawbacks. For one thing, the graphics only reach 720p resolution (nowhere near Ultra HD), and 32GB of internal (but expandable) storage isn't much. And the Switch can't run Wii U games, either – at least not in its current form. But Nintendo have made sure that the system is suited to family entertainment, and its major titles, while not numerous, are of very high quality. All of this means that it has appealed to families, but less so to hardcore racing or shooter fans.

Hardware Comparison: Xbox One vs PS4

The Battle of the Handhelds: Nintendo vs Sony

Of course, buyers aren't restricted to living room-based big box consoles. Developers like Sony and Nintendo have also created advanced handhelds that let players take their fun on the road. Let's check out their latest offerings:

The Sony PS Vita emerged in 2011 as the handheld cousin of the PS3, offering high definition graphics in a portable package. Despite being a handheld, the Vita is equipped for online play and social media activities, and you can use it to play games against PS3 and PS4 owners too. Two versions have been released. The original PCH-1000 came with a 5-inch touchscreen, two joysticks, stereo audio, a camera, motion sensing and 512MB of RAM, as well as 3-5 hours of battery time (with the audio off). The original Vita also came in 3G and Wi-Fi versions. In 2013, it was joined by the PCH-2000. The second Vita reduced the console's weight and size, added an hour of battery life, beefed up the RAM to 1GB and added a USB charging port – making it the model to go for. The Vita doesn't use cartridges or discs to store games. Instead, titles come on flash cards (or as downloads). Standard SD cards can also be used, while the internal storage card has a capacity of 500 apps or games.

Launched in 2011, as the name suggests, the 3DS sought to offer a 3D gaming experience in a handheld package. It came with the Miiverse fully installed, allowing users to access Nintendo's social networks, has a web browser in the mix, and even lets users log onto services like Netflix or YouTube. The 3DS was designed to be backwards compatible with almost all previous Nintendo DS handhelds, while the Virtual Console can be used to download older titles easily. So the library of games is vast.

Several versions of the 3DS have been released: the original 3Ds, the 3DS XL, the 2DS and the “new” 3DS.

• The original 3DS – Released in 2011, the basic 3Ds has a distinctive flip-book look and introduced the handheld's two screen design. It can generate stereoscopic 3D images and provides full internet access.

• 3DS XL – Launched in 2012, this version of the DS expanded the screen and unit size, as well as the battery life of the handheld.

• 2DS – A major redesign, the 2DS appeared in 2013. This time, Nintendo included the system architecture of the 3DS, but placed it inside a sturdy casing which could handle being dropped by kids. It doesn't fold, and it also doesn't offer true stereoscopic 3D, but is compatible with all 3DS games.

• The New Nintendo 3DS – Launched in 2015, the New 3DS added extra processor speed, restored the flip-book design, added shoulder buttons and also support for Nintendo's Amiibo figurines. It also appeared in 2017 as a 2DS XL, with a stripped down design, slightly restricted graphical features, but a lower price tag.

So, as you can see, the New Nintendo 3DS (and its 3DS XL and 2DS variants) are the most recent iteration of Nintendo's handheld.

Technical Specifications of the Major Gaming Consoles

You can get a much better idea of how these systems compare by checking out their basic specifications, so let's give it a whirl:

Firstly, the Xbox One X:

• CPU: 2.3GHz octacore AMD Jaguar

• GPU: Integrated AMD GPU offering 6TFLOPs of speed

• Memory: 12GB GDDR5 RAM

• Storage Space: 1TB internal hard drive

• Dimensions: 299.97 x 239.77 x 59.94mm

• Weight: 3.81kg

• Colours Available: Black only

• Disc Drive: 4K equipped Blu-ray

• Connectivity: 802.11ac dual band 2.4GHz and 5GHz gigabit ethernet

• Ports: 3 x USB 3.0, HDMI 2.0a in and out, S/PDIF, IR out

• Graphics Resolution: Up to 4K with full HDR support

And the PS4 Pro:

• CPU: 2.1GHz octacore AMD Jaguar

• GPU: Integrated AMD Polaris GPU offering 4.2TFLOPs of speed

• Memory: 8GB GDDR5 RAM

• Storage Space: 1TB internal hard drive

• Dimensions: 327 x 295 x 55mm

• Weight: 3.3kg

• Colours Available: Black only

• Disc Drive: Blu-ray

• Connectivity: 802.11A/B/G/N/AC Wi-Fi, gigabit ethernet and Bluetooth 4.0

• Ports: 3 x USB 3.1, HDMI, Gigabit Ethernet and the PS Camera port

• Graphics Resolution: HDR but and 4K equivalent visuals

The Nintendo Switch:

• CPU: 1020MHz Nvidia custom Tegra SOC

• GPU: Nvidia custom Tegra SOC generating 768MHz (docked) and 307MHz (undocked)

• Memory: 4GB RAM

• Storage Space: 32GB with the option of expansion via MicroSDXC cards

• Dimensions: 104mm x 173mm x 54mm (dock)

• Weight: 297g (console only), 398g (joycons attached)

• Colours Available – Black only, but with red and blue joycons

• Disc Drive: N/a

• Connectivity: IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac compliant wired LAN, and Bluetooth 4.1

• Ports: 2 x USB ports on dock and USB-C, HDMI out, SD card slot and ports for game cards and 3.5mm audio jack

• Graphics Resolution: Up to 1080p, no 4K support

And it's also useful to compared the major handhelds. First off, the PS Vita:

• CPU: Quad core ARM Cortex A9 Core

• GPU: SGX543MP4+

• Memory: 512MB RAM and 512MB VRAM

• Storage Space: 1GB internal memory card

• Dimensions - 183.6 x 85.1 x 15.0mm

• Weight: 219g

• Colours Available: Black worldwide version, with red, blue, glacier white and acqua blue versions available via Japan

• Disc Drive: N/a

• Connectivity: 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 2.1. 3G catered for on some versions

• Camera: 120fps front camera@320×240p and 60fps@640x480p, rear cam up to 640x480p

• Ports: Type B USB connector, memory card slot, PlayStation Vita card slot and 3.5mm jack

• Graphics Resolution: 5-inch screen capable of 960 x 544p, with 16 million colours

And the New Nintendo 3DS:

• CPU: Quad core 804 MHz ARM11 MPCore

• GPU: 204MHz DMP PICA200 GPU

• Memory: 256MB FCRAM and 10MB VRAM

• Storage Space: 1GB internal flash memory and a 4GB SD card included

• Dimensions: 80.6 x 142 x 21.6mm

• Weight: 253g

• Colours Available: Black worldwide version, with red, blue, glacier white and acqua blue versions available via Japan

• Disc Drive: Nintendo DS cartridge slot

• Connectivity: 2.4GHz 802.11b/g Wi-Fi

• Camera: Stereoscopic rear-facing camera and front-facing VGA cameras included

• Ports: USB recharging port and 3.5mm jack, slot for flash memory cards

• Graphics Resolution – Upper: 400×240p 3.53-inch LCD

• Graphics Resolution – Lower: 320x240p 3.02-inch resistive LCD touchscreen

Which Console has the Best Range of Games?

As you might expect, the range of games available is a major factor in deciding which console to buy. Each system has its standout games, so you don't need to worry too much about finding something to enjoy, but there are some classics for various consoles that everyone needs to know about.

The Xbox One and Xbox One X – As noted above, there are no Xbox One X exclusives as yet, but there have been some exceptional titles made solely for the Xbox One:

• Forza Motorsport – Designed by Turn 10 Studios for Microsoft, the Forza series is only available for Xbox systems (and Windows) and allows players to take the wheel of a huge variety of high-spec sports cars. The latest instalment, Forza Motorsport 7 has raised the bar for visual realism in driving games, at least when played on a 4K equipped Xbox X console.

• Halo – The game that launched the Xbox family is still going strong. Based in a hostile sci-fi universe, Halo is a first person shooter along the lines of Unreal or Half Life and sees an embattled human race taking on a devious alien “Covenant.” But the main action is multiplayer, with thrilling death matches and other modes. The latest edition, Halo Wars 2 has expanded the action, adding Command and Conquer style real time strategy, while 2015's Halo 5 was one of the first shooters to show off the X's graphical prowess.

• Gears of War – Another Microsoft-published epic, Gears of War has been around since 2006. Heavily based around tactics and stealth, the game is another humans vs aliens saga, with plenty of blood and guts action. While three versions appeared for the Xbox 360, the latest instalment, Gears of War 4 only appeared on the Xbox One (and PCs) and was a major hit, earning plenty of nominations at 2016's game award ceremonies.

• PlayerUnknown Battlegrounds – This multiplayer action hit from indie developers PUBG never made it to the PS4. It's a relentless action shooter, where players are parachuted into kill zones filled with weapons crates and hiding places, with the goal of emerging as the last man standing.

• Sea of Thieves – Based around the age of piracy in the 17th century, Sea of Thieves is a nautical adventure with a sense of humour. Developed by gaming legends Rare for Microsoft, the game debuted in March 2018 and has plenty of original features. For instance, you can team up with friends to captain a vessel, plundering other ships as you roam the seas – not something other action titles have ever been able to boast.

The PS4 and PS4 Pro – Xbox owners aren't the only ones with titles to boast about, as this quick selection of PS4 exclusive shows:

• Uncharted – Following the fortunes of a treasure hunter called Nathan Drake, the Uncharted series has now reached its 4th installment in the form of Uncharted 4: A Thief's End, which was only released for the PS4. Famed for its characterisation and the quality of its storylines, Uncharted offers a deeper gaming experience than anything that came before.

• Horizon: Zero Dawn – Made for Sony by Guerilla Games, Horizon: Zero Dawn was one of the biggest selling titles of 2017. In this sci-fi/fantasy adventure, players take the role of Aloy, a human hunter whose home planet has been taken over by a variety of fearsome machines. With its blend of exploration, combat and crafting (the robots can be dismantled to make handy equipment), Horizon has gobbled up hours of plenty of PlayStation fans' lives, while the storyline also won plenty of prizes.

• God of War – Originally based around Greek mythology, the God of War series moved onto Norse myths with a 2018 reboot and has attracted an avalanche of praise as a result. The series follows a Spartan warrior/god named Kratos as he battles divine foes and vanquishes his enemies, while the latest edition brings in a father-son dynamic which adds complexity to the tale.

• Bloodborne – One of the greatest modern day role playing games, FromSoftware's Bloodborne was one of the biggest PS4 hits, debuting in 2015. Set in a Victorian cyberpunk-style city called Yharnam, it sees players assume the role of “the Hunter” as he struggles to understand a plague which is afflicting the city.

And Nintendo Switch owners have some classic titles of their own to discover, most notably:

• The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – One of the most highly praised games ever, Breath of the Wild is an extraordinary RPG experience. Carrying on the adventures of Link, it brilliantly extends the Zelda series, creating a massive version of Hyrule with endless enemies to beat and quests to complete. It's probably the major reason for most people buying a Switch.

• Super Mario Odyssey – Nintendo's other great gaming franchise has also received a Switch reboot in the form of Super Mario Odyssey, and again it's a fantastic achievement. As family-friendly and wholesome as ever, this Mario adventure introduces a new ally of our favourite plumber: Cappy. With Cappy's help, Mario can take possession of other characters and objects, creating a huge range of gameplay possibilities.

• Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – While Mario Kart 8 was released on the Wii U in 2014, Nintendo wisely decided to update it totally for the Switch, and the Deluxe version arrived in 2017. Better graphics, extra characters and objects like the feather brought back from earlier titles make the Deluxe version a treat for Mario Kart fans.

• Splatoon 2 – No game sums up the Switch's family appeal better than Splatoon 2. This quirky spin on arena shooters replaces gore with paint, offering team-based splatting action. And it's obviously a popular move, with more than 6 million copies sold since the game's release in 2017.

What About Games for the Major Handhelds?

Handheld console owners haven't been left behind either, with no shortage of great titles for the PS4 and the various versions of the Nintendo DS. Here are just a few for the PS Vita that owners will need to get hold of:

• Velocity Ultra - A retro-flavured shooter, Velocity was a big PS Mini hit, and it received an excellent Vita port in the form of Velocity Ultra, which was released in 2013. Hooked up to the PlayStation Network, the Vita version provides a global high score leaderboard, while its HD graphics outdo home versions and look fantastic.

• Gravity Rush – A neat spin on classic arcade adventures, Gravity Rush sees players take control of Kat, who has the ability to manipulate gravity. Unfortunately, Kat has lost her memory, and it's your job to find out the mystery behind her superpowers as she helps the people of Hekseville head off a seemingly evil adversary.

• Chronovolt – Developed by Playerthree back in 2012, but still an engaging experience, Chronovolt is a demanding puzzler, with a distinctive steampunk visual style. And it takes great advantage of the Vita's controls, as you pilot the “Chronosphere” ball through several tricky levels.

You'll probably note that these titles tend to be from less well-known developers. The Vita does have an impressive library of exclusives, but they tend to be relatively unknown. Exploring what's available is one of the joys of owning Sony's handheld system, although there are plenty of big name titles like FIFA or Borderlands as well.

And finally, let's consider some of the best Nintendo 2DS titles:

• Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D – Released in 2011, this is a 3DS-only overhaul of Ocarina of Time – one of the greatest of all RPG games. All of the dungeons and quests from the original game are included, as well as dungeons from the add-on “Master Quest”, while the graphics have been remastered to beautiful effect. The results are dazzling.

• Fire Emblem: Awakening – Another stellar RPG, Awakening is the 13th stage in the Fire Emblem series, and easily one of the best. With sublime music, one of the best battlefield interfaces yet seen in an RPG and endless quests to complete, the game too handheld adventuring to another level.

• Super Mario 3D Land – No Nintendo system would be complete without a high-quality Mario title, and Super Mario 3D Land definitely delivers. Released in 2011, the game is like a hybrid of open world-based Mario titles and much older 2D platformers. The result is accessible, child-friendly gameplay which everyone can adore.

The thing to remember is that every console has its fair share of great games. While the Xbox One X excels with shooters and driving games, the PS4 isn't far behind on any category. The Switch is head and shoulders above the rest where family games are concerned. The Vita brings high-quality action games and puzzlers to a handheld audience, while the 3DS reboots classic RPGs in amazing new ways. So there's something to be said for every console.

How to Find the Right Console at the Right Price

If you're looking to add to your entertainment options with a next generation Xbox One X, Nintendo Switch or PS4 Pro, or if you need a mobile gaming device like a 3DS or Vita, getting the best deal is essential – and it shouldn't be hard.

One strategy is to wait until Black Friday and Cyber Monday, when retailers like Tesco, Argos, GAME, CeX and Amazon tend to slash their gaming prices. Amazon Prime Day is a good opportunity for Prime members, while the New Year usually throws up some great deals.

The Best Console Offers at HotUKDeals

But if you can't wait, don't worry. You can bargain hunt for consoles really effectively by bookmarking the HotUKDeals games consoles listings. All of the merchants listed above can be found in our listings, along with eBay sellers and smaller retailers. So if it's on offer in the UK, you'll find it here.