The argument between a PC for gamers, over a dedicated games console is one that runs and runs, at one time or another every gamer will have made the choice. For various reasons, a console often ends up being chosen. It’s true the humble games console does offer a very viable solution for those looking to play games as simply and cheaply as possible. But there is much more to PCs than the often modest increase in costs over a high-quality games console.
We have already mentioned that purchase cost can be a big factor in your choice between a PC or a console. With gamers looking for the best value, a PC system actually has some advantages, Game consoles are often a fixed price, or there is little difference between retailers. The packages are simple, the console, and possibly additional controllers or a game pass, But for a gaming PC purchaser, there are far more options available, even the possibility of building your own machine to create the best gaming experience for your invested cash. Of course not all gamers opt to build their own PC, off-the-shelf systems are available on many budgets and ultimately the level of customization and the quality of the components and peripherals will dictate the cost. Because of this ability to tailor your system to your needs and budget that PCs offer, but games consoles do not, it is not possible to take the consoles are cheaper argument solely at face value.
Technical Skills
The need for technical skills is often one that leads a gamer away from a PC-based system towards a console. It is true that you will need a level of technical skill to assemble and configure a PC gaming system, but as with price, the depth of skill needed depends on the level of complexity to your chosen system. With those purchasing a prebuilt system requiring the least skill, a level most people who have an interest in technology can grasp without too much trouble. A more complex system or one that does not come preassembled will require things like motherboard settings, driver installation and of course the physical installation of cards or modules. There are many videos online providing tuition in the skills needed and even full builds from start to finish that can effectively guide you in the right direction.
One technical skill that does cause some problems for the uninitiated is choosing the correct boards and modules, and a suitable case to house them, clued-up retailers are able to advise and many online gaming forums have extensive information on the latest developments in gaming for PCs.
Upgrades
Upgrading a PC-based system has many more possibilities for the user than a console-based system. Upgrading a pc system can be an extensive project and one that works best when you are not trying to upgrade beyond the capability of the majority of the existing PC’s components. The upgradeability offered by the PC system is a great asset over the long term. Especially when you are managing your future gaming costs while staying current with the latest release and the requirements in system performance.
Backward Compatibility
Console owners can only play titles released on their chosen console, even games for a single manufacturer’s historic consoles will not run on their latest iterations. This is of course in part a marketing ploy by console manufacturers to increase the sales of new consoles and their games releases. This is not a problem for a PC gamer with a back catalogue of titles they still wish to play.
The Gaming Experience
The gaming experience is where a PC-based system can show a marked improvement over a console system that has been built with a manufacturer making key choices along the way that affect performance and the gaming experience.
Graphics
PC-based gaming systems let you choose and control the resolution of your system, a powerful PC gaming system will arm you with lightning-fast processing and a graphics processing unit capable of outputting full-resolution images to more than one screen.
Gaming Peripherals
PC gamers have long been used to the choice and flexibility offered by the many controllers and gaming peripherals on offer. A gaming mouse will provide fantastic accuracy, which comes into play in many games, especially first-person shooters. A professional gamer can gain valuable advantages with a careful selection of the right peripherals for the game.
Game Script Mods
Some games can be modified on a PC-based system, adding new missions or characters, even skills. Gamers publish their mods and these can be downloaded and installed simply so in reality there is no scripting involved or needed.
PC Game Titles Cost Less
Often overshadowed in gamers’ minds by the initial cost of a quality PC gaming system, it is worth bearing in mind that PC titles are generally cheaper than their console equivalents. The games marketplace is well catered for with many digital sales platforms offering the latest PC games at great prices.
PC Only Titles
PC-only titles are often available, of course, the same can be said for console-exclusive releases, but in general by the volume and frequency of releases, PCs win in this area too.
Taking The Plunge
Having a powerful gaming PC can vastly improve your gaming experience, whether you’re playing the best multiplayer first-person shooters, amazing single-player AAA games, or even just games on gambling sites. The benefits a PC system brings to the gamer make for a convincing argument and those that choose the less technical advantages offered by a console will be rewarded with ease of installation and use. But true gamers who make the investment needed for a PC-based gaming system can reap the rewards in all areas of their gaming. So, spend some time researching your PC options and you’re bound to find something that suits you without too much hassle!
