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Used Video Game Systems
from: Video Gamers OasisVideo game systems are also called consoles and are also computers, but highly specialized ones based on similar CPUs that desktop computers use.
Desktop computers have been available since the 1970s and the 'video game era' was first introduced by the Nutting Associates in 1971 -- the first commercial video game. Magnavox launched the first video game system the same year. The system's core consisted of diodes and about 4 dozen transistors on a board. Arcade games were becoming increasingly popular.
By 1985, Nintendo Entertainment System introduced new concepts to the video game market, including the use of pad controllers and creating authentic video game reproductions for home systems along with aggressive pricing for hardware.
Companies who produce home video game systems include Nintendo, Sony, Sega, Microsoft and many more.
Although games can be played on personal desktop computers, consoles continue to gain popularity because:
* they're cheaper than buying a PC or Mac
* the games load faster
* they can be easily connected to your stereo and TV
* compatibility issues aren't a problem
* games utilize all the capabilities of the hardware
* consoles are easy to set up -- just plug it in and start playing
* multiple players
In several ways, it's better to use a console than a personal computer for playing video games. Personal computers are great, but playing computer games could cause some damage. If you also use the computer for important documents, it's safer to buy a video game system designed specially for playing video games.
Video game systems are priced reasonably and provide lots of gaming entertainment the entire family can enjoy. There are also many different models to choose from including Sega, Nintendo, Sony and Microsoft. Sony is a bit pricey compared to other brands, but as with most Sony products, it gives you superior quality.
Another alternative to reduce the cost is to purchase a used video game system. You'll likely find a local store that offers used systems, and of course, don't forget the busiest marketplace in the world to find a huge selection of used systems -- eBay. Used systems are much cheaper when compared to new ones, but totally servicable and will provide many hours of fun.
When buying a used video game system it's important that you check the entire console to ensure it's operating properly. Used consoles available at stores usually have a warranty, so you shouldn't have to worry in case it fails to operate when you get it home.
It's a good idea when shopping locality to visit several different stores that sell used systems. Of course, when searching online at eBay, you'll discover a huge variety of both systems and games and the auctions usually provide pictures of the product along with the price and many will ship the items for free.
There are parents who are reluctant to get their children or teenagers a video game system because they're worried it could effect their studies. Indeed, there are kids and young adults who do spend more time playing video games than studying, but with proper time management this shouldn't be a problem. Parents should have the final 'say' as to when the children can play.
Video games aren't harmful as long there is an understanding of the value difference between education and playing video games. However, the reality is, children arn't the only one's who love playing video games. Lots of adults enjoy gaming as well as a nice break from the pressures of work and raising a family.
Xbox Online News
Microsoft acknowledges Xbox Live hijacks - Sydney Morning Herald (blog)
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Microsoft Expects Declining PC Shipments Into Spring - Wall Street Journal
Microsoft Expects Declining PC Shipments Into Spring Wall Street Journal Microsoft struck content partnerships with 40 companies in the past three months to deliver content through Xbox Live. Expanding content also has helped boost membership 33% in the past year to 40 million users. Microsoft is leveraging the online ... |
Gotham City Impostors Now Available for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 & PC - Electronic Theatre
 London24 | Gotham City Impostors Now Available for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 & PC Electronic Theatre By ManPac (online) Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and DC Entertainment have today launched the highly anticipated Gotham City Impostors. The videogame is available as a digital-only release for Windows PC, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 now. Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Launches Gotham City Impostors Xbox Live Arcade Update – Bats, Jokerz and Shank sequels Over 100 pieces of Gotham City Imposters DLC go live before launch |
Wii U and the Future of the Online Pass - Nintendo Life
 Nintendo Life | Wii U and the Future of the Online Pass Nintendo Life With the number of gamers indulging in online play on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 at an all-time high, it's disheartening sometimes to observe how far Nintendo has been lagging behind, as far as online functionality goes. For those lucky enough to own ... |
Kingdoms of Amalur – Reckoning: 38 Studios Founder Explains Online Pass's Merits - Gamebandits (blog)
 Globe and Mail | Kingdoms of Amalur – Reckoning: 38 Studios Founder Explains Online Pass's Merits Gamebandits (blog) He thinks of the online pass as some sort of a reward for gamers who are loyal to 38 Studios. The upcoming Kingdoms of Amalur – Reckoning is an action-packed RPG developed for the PC, PS3 and Xbox 360. There is word that Reckoning will be making use of ... EA and 38 Studios Ship One of the Highly Anticipated Videogames of 2012 ... Gamer up: Curt Schilling looks to hit home run with his company's 1st video game 'Amalur': It's a new ballgame for Schilling |
Halo dev: don't block used games with Xbox 720, lower prices instead "Players ... - VGChartz
Halo dev: don't block used games with Xbox 720, lower prices instead "Players ... VGChartz It was recently rumoured that Microsoft's next Xbox console would feature some kind of anti-used-games system, possibly involving online registration. Cue internet-wide outcry and some mixed responses from developers. One of Volition's staffers has ... |