What is the best videogame console for kids and families? What are the advantages and disadvantages of the PS3, PS2, Nintendo Wii and Xbox 360? How old should my kids be to play videogames? Is the Xbox 360 really only for older kids? Is the PS2 obsolete? What accessories do I need? What are the disadvantages of the cheap $399 PS3? What software and games should I buy? Where can I find more information on what videogames are good or bad?

There are many questions and options when it comes down to selecting the right videogame system for your family. We are fortunate to own all systems - you can too for $1222. Aside from reviewing games for our “Family Gaming Source” website KidConfidence, we use and abuse the consoles to play with our friends and children.

Watch our exclusive KidConfidence Videogame Console Buyers Guide to learn more about the Pros and Cons of each system.

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Nintendo Wii
The Wii may get your kids off the couch and moving, and is very focused on family entertainment but the massive amount of mediocre games dampened our initial excitement considerably. However, games like Super Mario Galaxy show the true potential of the console and make for an overall positive outlook for the system’s future. The Wii is affordable ($249 MSRP), very compact and light in design. The Motion Sensing Wii Remote controller also includes a speaker, rumble feature and expansion port for the Nunchuck attachment. The graphics are not at the level of PS3 or Xbox 360 and the Wii does not play DVD’s.

Microsoft Xbox360
Microsoft leads the pack with an impressive lineup of games and exclusive titles. The Xbox Live Service and the Xbox Live Arcade (XBLA) offer an unrivaled online and entertainment experience. This machine is a great all-around value. Hassle-free parental controls ensure child safety. Unfortunately, the Xbox 360 does not include an HD-DVD player. An external HD-DVD Player is sold separately. The consoles biggest shortcoming is games that can be played by the family together, however this is our system of choice.

Xbox 360 20GB (with HDMI)

Sony PlayStation3 (PS3)
Sony’s PlayStation 3 is currently one of the cheapest Blue-Ray DVD Players on the market - that also happens to play games. Looking at it from this perspective makes the PS3 a good investment. However, as a gaming only system, the PS3 lacks “Exclusive” titles and games in general. Games for young children are virtually none existent. Don’t get suckered into buying the cheap PS3 – it is not backwards compatible with your old PS2 games. The PS3 retail box does not include a Component or HDMI cable.

PlayStation 3 80GB

Sony PlayStation 2 (PS2)
The PlayStation 2 may not have the allure of next-generation video game consoles like the PS3, Wii and Xbox 360, but it’s significantly cheaper and has a huge library of games to choose from. This is a great choice for casual gamers and those looking to save a few dollars on a new system.

PlayStation 2 Console Silver

PC / Mac
Getting into PC gaming can be expensive if you don’t already own the equipment, but if you do it’s a no-brainer. Your computer is capable of playing some of the best games out there and with some upgrades every couple of years, you can stay on the cutting edge. Keep in mind that PC’s and Mac’s can be used for a variety of interesting and useful applications, other than gaming.

Microtel 2.13GHz CORE2 DUO

For Handheld Gaming Devices (LeapFrog Leapster, Nintendo DS and Sony PSP). Click Here.

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