 | | Microsoft's Xbox |
Xbox
This year sees the release of not one but two new console systems. Microsoft enters the videogame arena with the Xbox ($299) -- essentially a computer system for your television. While the Xbox offers an impressive system complete with DVD capability, finding the Microsoft system may prove the tougher challenge. Xbox trickle into stores at a rate similar to last year’s Playstation2 from Sony, making the likelihood of finding one in time for Christmas slim.
 | | The compact GameCube is our Sure Shot pick for 2001 |
GameCube
Industry pioneer Nintendo hits hard with their GameCube system ($199 SRP), a sleek, compact console from a company with a proven track record. Nintendo has learned much from their years in the console industry and is promising 1.3 million systems to retailers by Christmas. As such, and from our experience, finding a GameCube to put under your tree is a much more realistic proposition.This is not to say that it will be a piece of cake locating one, but with a bit of perseverance, the diligent should have no problem finding this year’s Console Sure Shot. In addition to being more available, the GameCube already has the support of developers and boasts a larger game selection than the other rookie. As such, the GameCube appears to be the front runner to winning this year’s battle.
Playstation2 - Still out there!
Last year, the must have was the Playstation2 ($299) and this year the Sony system is still going strong. If you bought into the Dreamcast or are simply looking to step up from an earlier system, you cannot go wrong with the Playstation2. The PS2 features DVD playback capability but is not so powerful as the similarly priced (but scarce) Xbox. However, it does offer the largest game library of any system – with many titles far below the $49.99 asking price for the new systems. The PS2 plays not only games specifically designed for it, but also games for its predecessor, the now titled PS One.
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