The gaming platform of the computer will directly compete against gaming machines from Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo. While games will be the main feature of each console, each will include additional features: Internet capabilities, extra controllers such as keyboards, and the ability to play music. So what makes each platform attractive?
The consoles will be remarkably less expensive than the computer due to their sole focus on gaming. Microsoft's X-Box will include a 600MHz Intel Pentium III, 64MB RAM, DVD drive, 8GB hard drive, Nvidia GeForce graphics card, and an MS Sidewinder control pad. Not bad for $300 or so, huh? However, by its April release date, the current computer will have outpaced it and probably have lapped it. You might be able to build your own "X-Box" for as much or less. And that's one advantage computers have over consoles: as technology grows, you're able to upgrade and change your system around. With a console, you're stuck with the same old box for years.
But for those not interested in having the most power, or upgrading their own machines, a Sony PlayStation 2 or Microsoft X-Box doesn't sound too bad. It doesn't sound that bad for game developers either. As the customer base grows for consoles, more game designers are jumping on the wagon. The console gives designers consistency; each gamer with an X-Box or PlayStation will experience the same. Not true for computer gamers. It also gives them a larger customer base, and more profits.
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