It’s that time of year again when parents and partners and shoppers everywhere ask what the best video game console for Christmas is. There are three main contenders for 2018 – Sony PlayStation 4, Microsoft Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch – and we are going to look at them all and help you decide where your money should be spent.
Games consoles are not just for kids and gaming fans everywhere will be watching for new game releases, upgrades to their favourite console and what new features are being released. Whether you’re a Fifa fan or someone who prefer to play the latest RPG or online battle game, you have decisions to make. If you are purchasing a game console for a loved one, you have questions you will need to answer.
Top Three Game Console Choices for Christmas 2018
There are three major contenders for the number one spot this year and these are the Sony PlayStation 4, Microsoft Xbox One, and the Nintendo Switch. The PS4 and Xbox One are similar and both provide high-end graphics and performance especially with the PS4 Pro or the Xbox One X editions. Both of these consoles support 4K displays. Both will also allow streaming of games online, so others can watch and if eSports or betting on video games is something you’re interested in, these are perfect as you can watch Twitch streams with ease.
The Nintendo Switch is different. It’s not as powerful, but it does come with a built-in screen that you can play on the go or plug into your TV. Nintendo game fans will love this console.
Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Game Console
There are a number of questions you’ll need to answer before making your decision and these include who will be using the console. If you are buying for children, the Nintendo Switch is a great option and most of Nintendo’s games are child-friendly too. If you are buying for teenagers or adults you are looking at either the PS4 or the Xbox One, especially if they like to play shooting games like Assassin’s Creed, Battlefield, etc. These games are not available for Nintendo Switch.
What Game Genres Do You Enjoy?
The answer to this question will help you narrow down your options. The Nintendo Switch is for those who enjoy playing Nintendo games like Super Mario and The Legend of Zelda. The Switch can run Fortnite and Minecraft but not the big-name titles Counter Strike or Fifa. The big titles like Destiny and Overwatch from Activision or Fifa Football and Battlefield from EA will require a PS4 or Xbox One. These game consoles do offer a lot of the same titles, but there are some exclusive offers too such as the new Spiderman game which was only available on PS4. PS4 is the best option for epic adventures including God of War and the Uncharted Series. The PS4 also has a VR headset you can connect for virtual reality gaming.
The Xbox One has its own unique titles too and if you enjoy racing games or shooting games like Forza Motorsports or Halo then this is the console for you.
Playing Online With a Gaming Console
If you want to play games online with your friends, you need to check which consoles your friends have. Games such as Destiny, Battlefield, Fortnite, Fallout, Red Dead Redemption, and even Minecraft allow you to play online with your friends. If you buy a PS4 but your friends have an Xbox One, it might prove difficult to join them in-game. Both Xbox One and PS4 have monthly charges for online gaming so that is another thing to consider. Both do have great parental controls as well.
The Nintendo Switch online gaming subscription is a little different and focuses on local multiplayer gaming, meaning all players in the same room using the same TV. If you are looking for a game console for family game nights, the Switch could be perfect.
Do More With Your Game Console
If you plan on watching NetFlix or any other video streaming services on your game console, the Nintendo Switch is not the choice for you. It doesn’t support third-party apps. PS4 and Xbox One have access to Netflix, Amazon, YouTube, and more and can stream 4K movies and TV programs in full UHD resolution. The Xbox One will also play 4K Blu-ray discs. The PS4 doesn’t play these. Both the PS4 and the Xbox One come with internet browsers so you can visit online-casinos.ca for real money games too. With the Xbox One and PS4 you can listen to music, watch sports, get gaming news, and even chat online.
Play Older Generation Games
Both the Xbox One and the PS4 let you play old games but there are some differences. You can play a lot of Xbox 360 games on your Xbox One with more being made compatible all the time. You’ll also find lots of classic Xbox titles that you can play when you purchase a Game Pass subscription. If you have PS3 games you won’t be able to play these in your PS4, but you can find a lot of them in the PlayStation Now subscription service.
2018 Game Console Costs
The final question you need to ask yourself before purchasing a new game console is how much money do you want to spend. The cost varies depending on the model you purchase. The PS4 Pro will set you back $400 on its own. The PS4 standard model will cost around $300. The Xbox One X will cost you $500 and the Xbox One standard model around $300. The Nintendo Switch is $400. These are basic prices and if you can afford to spend a little more you’ll get a great bundle deal. These bundle deals include the console, a game, and sometimes an extra controller for an extra $50. You’ll also find sale deals so be sure to look for these as well.
Choosing the Right Game Console for Christmas
As you can see, each of the gaming consoles has their own advantages and disadvantages and the one that is right for you will depend on what you want to use it for. The PS4 and Xbox One are more suited to teens and adults who want to game online, stream, and use video streaming services. The Nintendo Switch is suited to younger users and those looking for Nintendo games like Mario and Zelda. It also has a build in screen for gaming on the go and child-friendly features. The choice is yours.
For game recommendations for the game console you choose for Christmas 2018, see our games section where you’ll find our best picks for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch.
