Which genre is right for me?

Microsoft's Xbox 360

Priced at around $299 this console's primary focus is online gaming. Using Xbox Live (an annual subscription service) the 360 delivers a wide range of options for the casual to hardcore gamer. The Xbox is primarily known for top tier action titles like Halo, Gears of War and Call of Duty. Its primary genre is the FPS (First Person Shooter) which allows gamers to get into 16 or 32 player frag fests with their friends.

Players can communicate with anyone worldwide via an online friend list which lets you organise a time to play a game with your mates. The 360 is suited more to teens and adults however there are a series of titles catering to young gamers.

Sony's Playstation 3

Priced at $499 this multimedia powerhouse covers quite a lot of genres evenly. It has a wider range of RPGs (Role Playing Games) and interactive titles like SingStar, Buzz Quiz and EyeToy. Each of these has their own specialised controllers for further immersion.

A big plus for the Playstation is its free online features, though it has less dedicated support than the Xbox 360 but very similar features.

Nintendo Wii

The cheapest of the bunch at $288, this little console is big on interactivity with a primary focus on family gaming. Using motion sensitive controllers the console allows gamers to match move for move with their onscreen avatar. Online is a must for retro gamers as well, with gaming classics available online at relatively low cost.

There's no doubt that Xbox 360 jumped to the lead as the preferred gaming console because of its price; speed to market and Microsoft support. PS3 had a bit of a shaky entry into the market but it has some strong features. And the Wii has become the console of choice for families who want to play together!

Here's a quick glossary of the different gaming genres:

• Action – Titles primarily focused on quick thinking and movement. Progression often comes from defeating numerous enemies in succession.
• Shooter – FPS (First Person Shooter) perhaps the best known it's where you defeat an onslaught of enemies from a first person perspective which often allows better immersion. Third Person Shooters offer the same with a larger field a view and more manipulation of the camera.
• Adventure - Focus on exploring and navigating in an environment rich with puzzles. Less shooting, more thinking.
• Simulation – Games that focus on micro-management and controlling numerous characters or structures at once. The thinking man or woman's primary choice.
• Role-playing - Very story focused game play that allows control of numerous characters and offers a slower more strategic battle system. It often contains more paragraphs to read than your average novel.
• Strategy - Similar to simulation with more focus on army to army combat. Building structures and raising armies to crush your opponent.
• Sports - A simulated version of everyday sports. This can range from basic pick up and play titles to the more advanced.
• Racing - Allows the player to sit in their vehicle of choice and go head to head with other gamers. Often enhanced by a steering wheel peripheral.

There are many other sub-genres though this overview should give you a brief insight into the options available and help you to make the right choice for you and your family.

Have more questions or need help? Contact Gizmo on 1300 275 449 or help@gizmo.com.au