Best Game Consoles 2023

If you are new to online games and want to know how the online games are played then you are in the right place.  It is important to understand how online games particularly MMORPG games are played, the types of hardware and software to be used.  You must also have a fair understanding of the type of game settings required.  Then different gaming device offer a variety of options for game play and on different platforms. Let us delve further to see what are the different kinds of consoles, their brief history, different options available so that you are able to unleash your gaming potential with 2023’s best game consoles.

What devices are used to play games?

There are a variety of devices, consoles and modes of game play available. Games can be played on personal computers, on dedicated gaming consoles attached to a android TV, computer, cell phones, or on dedicated handheld gaming devices like the PSP or the Nintendo DS systems.

Consoles are the most common way to play games

As discussed players there are several devices to choose from to play games, such as Personal Computers (PCs), Laptops, Android TV, Smartphones and Tablets. However, the gaming industry has seen tremendous advancement in terms of technology over a period of time. If you are a serious gamer and seeking to enjoy online games that are mostly MMO (massively multiplayer online), then gaming consoles such as PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo Switch are a must.

Advantages of Using Game Consoles

Smart phones, laptops and hand held devices may be highly portable but may not be as powerful as computers or gaming consoles.  Personal computers and gaming laptops come with the most powerful hardware, that provide not only stunning visuals and sound giving a thrilling experience when you play the games. Add to that the gaming consoles which were designed specifically keeping in mind such players, offering a unique gaming experience.  These game consoles have their own exclusive titles.  In the end, the device you choose depends on your personal preferences and the games you choose to play.

Different Types of Gaming Consoles

The gaming consoles come in several varieties, each having its own unique features, advantages and some drawbacks.  Ultimately it will all depend on your preferences on as to what games you plan to play. The popular game consoles are Sony PlayStation, Microsoft XBox, Nintendo, Atari and Retro Bit. Let us have a look at these consoles one by one to have a fair understanding and idea.

Sony PlayStation : A Popular Choice Among Gamers

PlayStation was brought by Sony which has revolutionized the gaming industry.  The PlayStation has been the first choice among gamer for several years since 1994. Their most recent version which is the PlayStation 5, more popularly known as PS5 was released in 2020.  We will be discussing in detail the Sony PlayStation’s history, features, hardware and some of the popular games available later in the article.

History of PlayStation

The PlayStation was first released in 994 in Japan followed by North America a year later in 1995. The first console used CD-ROMs instead of cartridges, which allowed for larger and more intricate games to be played.  This lead to the PS quickly becoming a worldwide hit, selling 100 million units and more all over the world.

Since then Sony continued to improve on the technology and release new versions of the PlayStation, each having more advanced features and hardware than the previous ones. The PlayStation 2 was released in 2000, selling more than 155 million units being a best seller. The PlayStation 3 followed in 2006, which introduced multiplayer online gaming where players played against each other.  PlayStation 4 was released in 2013, which became another huge success, selling over more than 110 million units globally.

Features of PlayStation

Lets talk about the latest Sony console which is PlayStation 5, the newest console in the series which was released in 2020.. It boasts of several exciting new features and advanced features that makes it a must have game console for gamers. Some of the key features are as follows :-

Powerful Hardware.  The PS 5 has a custom AMD Zen2 CPU and powerful GPU, providing superior visuals and smooth gameplay. This is a result of Sony and AMD collaboration.  The PS5 console is equipped with a solid state drive (SSD), that provides ultrafast loading time which allows you to jump straightway into your favorite games without having to wait. It also features a DualSense controller with haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, providing a wonderful immersive gaming experience. Another great feature of PlayStation is its compatibility with many PS4 games, that allows you to play your favourite titles continuously. The PS5 also offers 3D audio experience that makes you feel like you\’re right in the thick of all the action.

Games on PlayStation

Sony PlayStation has a vast library of game collection and that is the primary reasons for its popularity. There are some titles that are exclusive to Sony PlayStation only like God of War, Uncharted, and The Last of Us series. You can also play other third party titles titles like Call of Duty, FIFA etc on PlayStation.

Different Versions of PlayStation

PlayStation was first introduced in the market in 1994,  Since then it has seen four major upgrades, with each successive upgrade or version offering new and improved features to make the gaming more immersive and enjoyable. Lets have a look at these upgrades or versins.

PlayStation (PS1)

The first PlayStation, also known as PS1, debuted in Japan in 1994 and North America two years later in 1995. This 32 bit gaming console was the first successful system to use CD-ROMs instead of cartridges.  This support allowed to play larger and more complex games which the cartridge based Nintendo could not offer. All this features coupled with a sleek and compact design, resulted in this console becoming an instant hit, selling over 100 million units all over the world.

PlayStation 2 (PS2)

The PlayStation 2 that was released in 2000, marked a dramatic improvement over its predecessor PS1. This 128-bit gaming console featured advanced features like CD and DVD playback, analog controller, digital surround sound and improved graphics. The PS2 was energy efficient and light weight and was the pioneer in online gaming. All these features made PS2 enormously popular, making it the best-selling console of all time, selling 155 million units and above globally.

PlayStation 3 (PS3)

The PS3 was launched in 2006, it marked a significant advancement from its predecessor – the PS2. This 256-bit gaming console featured an advanced processor, superior graphics, and an integrated Blu-ray player as well as PlayStation Network – an online gaming service allowing gamers to download games and connect with others around the globe. Over 80 million units of this model sold worldwide.

PlayStation 4 (PS4)

The Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4), released in 2013, was the next major upgrade.  This 8-core x86-64 AMD Jaguar processor had amazing features like D Technology and 4K resolution, backwards compatibility, connectivity with the PlayStation mobile app, social sharing and connectivity,  PlayStation move, PlayStation camera and remote play.  It also had an expanded hard drive and a built-in game streaming service. PS4 had sales of over 110 million units worldwide.

PlayStation 5 (PS5)

The latest version ie PlayStation 5 was released in 2020 with further upgraded features. The PS5 sports an AMD Zen 2 processor, powerful GPU and extremely fast loading due to the solid state drive (SSD). Plus, its DualSense controller, 3D audio takes the gaming experience to the next level.  The only drawback it has is its bulky size and non compatibility with Dolby and Atmos.  

Microsoft Xbox

X Box is another popular gaming console which was created by Microsoft released in 2001.  There are several Xbox series and the latest version, the Xbox Series X/S, was released in 2020.  Each gaming console boasts of its own distinct features and a devoted fan base.  The Xbox is popular for its powerful hardware, stunning graphics and an immersive and realistic gaming experience. Further the XBox console offers many exclusive games like Call of Duty, Modern Warfare, Call of Duty, Fortnight, Mkincraft, Grand Theft Auto, Halo, Roblox and many more.  It also has backward compatibility with many older Xbox series.  In addition to gaming, the Xbox also provides access to your favorite entertainment apps and stream 4K video on Disney+, Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, Microsoft Movies & TV and much more.  You can directly purchase movies and TV shows from the console.

Different Versions of Xbox Series

Xbox

Xbox was first released by Microsoft in 2001 with an Intel Pentium III processor, NVIDIA graphics card and a built-in hard drive.  This was also the first console to include an Ethernet port for online gaming.

Xbox 360

The Xbox 360 was released in 2005, with upgraded features.  These included improved hardware, wireless controller, and sleeker design.  It also introduced Xbox Live service which enabled players to connect online and play together.  It immediately gained popularity among gamers all over the world.

Xbox One

The next upgrade Xbox One was released in 2013 with more advanced features.  It had more powerful hardware, like AMD Jaguar Unit, 1.8 GHz with 8 core 8 GB RAM and DDR3 processors. Further, the voice commands and seamless switching between games and entertainment apps were also introduced in XBox One.

Xbox One S

The Xbox One S version was released in 2016, and was a smaller, sleeker version of its predecessor.  It added 4K video streaming, Blu-ray support, cloud storage and a digital library.  

Xbox One X

The next upgrade was Xbox One X.  Released in 2017, it was the most powerful game console available at that time.  Loaded with additional features like 4K graphics, improved hardware, and faster loading time, Xbox One X set itself apart from its competitors with faster load time and longer battery life.

Xbox Series X and Series S

These two powerful upgraded versions in the Xbox series were released by Microsoft in 2020.  These two consoles had 4K graphics and enhanced features that allowed faster load time. Series S is however a smaller more affordable alternative but still providing almost all the same features.

Nintendo

Nintendo is also a Japanese video gaming company which was founded in 1980.  The company first introduced video game TV within Japan. Subsequently they introduced some hand held gaming devises which became popular worldwide.  With the release of consoles like Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), and Nintendo 64 they achieved worldwide success. The Nintendo Switch, released in 2017, is the latest console from the company of Nintendo.

Different Versions of Xbox Series

Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)

The NES was released in 1985 and was Nintendo\’s first home console.  It launched many iconic game franchises like Super Mario Bros and The Legend of Zelda.

Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)

The next upgraded version which was SNES was released in 1990.  It had improved graphics and sound.  The SNES also introduced Super Mario World, which instantly became one of the world\’s most loved video games.

Nintendo 64

Nintendo 64, released in 1996 was Nintendo\’s first console to utilize 3D graphics.  It launched the Super Smash Bros franchise, another blockbuster smash hit.

Nintendo GameCube

The GameCube was Nintendo\’s first console to use mini DVDs instead of traditional the traditional CDs.  Released in 2001, it introduced some more hit games in the Super Mario series such as Super Mario Sunshine and The Legend of Zelda – Wind Waker which were also immensely liked by gamers.

The Nintendo Switch

The latest console from the company of Nintendo called Nintendo Switch was released in 2017. This device can both serve as a home console as well as a portable gaming device.  When docked, it can be played on your TV and when undocked can be played as a hand held game device.

Atari VCS

Atari is another gaming console system that runs on Linux based systems.  The Atari VCS is the latest creation which is based on the classic Atari console and released in 2020.  The Atari VCS provides gamers with both classic and contemporary gaming experiences.

Different Versions of Atari VCS

Atari 2600.

Released in 1977, the Atari 2600 was one of the earliest home video game consoles. It included classic titles such as Space Invaders, Asteroids, and Pac-Man.

Atari 5200

When the Atari 5200 was released in 1982, it marked an upgrade over their 2600 model with improved graphics and sound. Unfortunately, it wasn\’t quite as successful due to a lack of quality games and poor controller design.

Atari 7800

When the Atari 7800 was released in 1986, it was an attempt to compete with Nintendo Entertainment System. Although boasting improved graphics and sound, lack of quality games and poor marketing ultimately proved detrimental to its success.

Atari Flashback

Launched in 2004, the Atari Flashback is a series of consoles featuring classic Atari games preinstalled, designed to look just like the original 2600 console.

Atari VCS

Released in 2019, the Atari VCS is their newest console. This hybrid console can be used for both gaming and entertainment purposes, boasting classic Atari games alongside modern apps and games from leading developers.

Retro-Bit

Retro-Bit, another gaming console system, allows gamers to play classic games from older consoles such as the Nintendo Entertainment System or Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). It\’s a clone console that uses software on a chip design and not emulation. It plays Super Nintendo, Nintendo, and Sega Genesis games. The front lid opens to reveal the controller ports and region switches for each console. The top of the console can be selected with a handy switch. There are also 3 nice, tight cartridge slots for your games.

Retro-Bit and Atari VCS are companies that specialize in retro-style video games consoles. Retro-Bit is a newer company that has produced more consoles than Atari VCS. However, Retro-Bit\’s focus has been on plug-and-play consoles which can emulate multiple consoles. Retro gaming enthusiasts will find something to their liking, whether it\’s the classic design of Atari VCS consoles or the versatility of Retrobit consoles.

Different Versions of Retro Bit

Retro-Bit Generations

A plug-and-play console, the Retro-Bit Generations was released in 2016. It emulates classic games from many consoles such as Sega Genesis, Atari VCS, NES and NES. There are over 100 titles available and two wireless controllers.

Retro-Bit Super Retro-Cade

Launched in 2017, Retro-Bit Super Retro-Cade emulates classic games from different consoles like the Atari VCS and NES. There are 90 titles available across various consoles, including the Atari VCS and NES.

Retro-Bit Generations II

This updated version of the original Retro-Bit Generations II was released in 2019. It offers all the gaming needs of gamers with a new design and 64 classic games on multiple consoles.

Retro-Bit Super Retro Trio+

Retro-Bit Super Retro Trio+ can play games on three consoles, the NES (SNES), and Sega Genesis (SNES). You can also use the SD card slot to store ROMs, and it comes with two wireless controllers.

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