I haven't seen any debates on this forum about the seventh and newest generation of video game consoles yet, so I wanted to make one. I'll start off with my own little missive.
The seventh generation of consoles has created some of the biggest debates and controversies in video game history. Three experienced hardware developers have drawn their hands from the deck: Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo. Claiming that their consoles have power, interactivity, and innovation deemed impossible even beyond our wildest imaginations, each vie for the loyalties of the many gamers that seek to reinvent their gaming experience.
Microsoft, software developer famous for its critically acclaimed Windows series of operating systems, was the first to release their system, the Xbox 360, on November 22, 2005. Its next-generation graphics, fluid interface, and impeccable online functionality have attracted many gamers, and its one-year head start has given it an insane advantage above the competition. It is the newest, youngest, least experienced console hardware developer, having only made one previous console before, the original Xbox, back during the turn of the century. However, years of experience with the inner workings of software functionality have made it a powerful competitor in the fight for next-generation dominance.
Sony, hardware developer that has traveled across many media formats including TV's, portable DVD players, and home theater technology, released their PLAYSTATION 3 one year later on November 17, 2006. Sony has made countless claims towards the greatness of their new system, which has been proven to be the most powerful of all three consoles. Packing groundbreaking technology that strives to bring the best-looking, most theatrical experience to your home entertainment system, the PLAYSTATION 3 is all about power, with added bonuses. The PLAYSTATION Network is all about bringing Sony's fans together, while the new Sixaxis controller aspires to let players play their games in new, interesting ways.
Nintendo, often touted as the oldest, most experienced video game developer and housing some of the most brilliant minds of the gaming industry, threw their new weapon into the fray on November 19, 2006: the quirky Wii. Simple in design, yet ambitious in practicality, Nintendo appeals not only to seasoned veterans of the gaming world, but everyday consumers, people who haven't even set a single foot into gaming. The Wii has introduced its revolutionary new control system, with which Nintendo plans to overturn the gaming world on its head, with innovative motion-sensing capabilities and incredible ease of use. WiiConnect24, a service that remains online even though your console is off, lets you access your friends' worlds even after they've retired, and its range of family-friendly games plan to capture the hearts of day-to-day consumers everywhere.
These three consoles vie for power, and each day new features and games are introduced that change public opinion entirely. They vie for our attention and our loyalty. As the consumers, it is in our power as a collective party to decide whether or not any of these consoles will succeed or fail.
Where do your loyalties stand?
Remember, this is a constructive discussion for sharing and, if necessary, debating opinions. That means it is most definitely not a flamethrowing session. Respect your fellow members and their opinions. Any misbehavior will be reported to moderators immediately.
I've been following the seventh generation closely, and I am also the proud owner of all three consoles. So if there are any questions pertaining to the PS3, Wii, or 360, ask, and I will answer. Also, if there are any false claims made about any of the three systems, I will denounce them immediately.
With that said, have at it!