Console Wars

Controllers:

Without controllers there would be no way to play games on your new console.  Every console has taken a different approach and so even though this category was difficult to judge it was based on the innovations and design found in the new controllers.

Wii:
The design team at Nintendo has something to be extremely proud of!  Though it is an under powered console the design of the console and controller really stick out.  With its innovative motion sensing controller, you can really start being part of the game.  However, don’t think its all fun and games.  Some reviews have focused on broken windows and TVs as controllers slip out of your hand.  Others bring to light possible cramps from continued use.  Overall, only time will tell if the controller is here to stay or is just a fad.  Score: 5

Xbox 360:
With a smaller controller than the original Xbox, the new controller is either wireless or not depending on which package you get.  The 360 supports wireless accessories out of the box.  It also has some improvements with button placement including new shoulder buttons to replace the black and white buttons on the original Xbox controller.  The 360 controller can also be used to turn on and off the console and performs extremely well and accurate.  Score: 5

PlayStation3:
The PS3 controller called the SIXAXIS is able to detect motion in six ways (hence the name).  It also includes more trigger style R2 and L2 buttons like the original Xbox and 360.  It operates wirelessly thru Bluetooth, though there have been initial reports of sync issues.  The design of the controller is the same as the PS2 throwing out the redesigned boomerang style controller that was initially shown with the console.  Score: 4

Games:

The games are an extremely important part of any console, especially exclusive titles.  Because the Xbox 360 was launched a year before the other consoles it has more available games at the time of writing.

Xbox 360:
The 360 included a great launch library of stunning titles including Call of Duty 2, Project Gotham Racing 3, and Kameo: Elements of Power.  Other notable games include Gears of Wars, Saint’s War, and Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter.  The 360 also includes a Live Arcade feature which includes such classics as multiplayer UNO, Pac-Man, and DOOM.  Gears of Wars, in particular, has had good reviews noticing its extreme graphics that show the real power of the 360.  18 games were available at launch with over 145 available now.  Score: 5

Wii:
The Wii also notably includes downloadable games such as the 360 with classic Nintendo titles available.  However, some titles will need a ‘classic’ controller to be played.  Launch titles include Wii Sports (included in every console) and Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess.  21 games were available at launch.  Score: 4

PlayStation3:
The PlayStation3 launched with 16 titles including Resistance: Fall of Man, Ridge Racer 7, and Untold Legends: Dark Kingdom.  However, most games received lower review scores when compared to comparable 360 launch titles.  There are no downloadable arcade or classic style games.  Score: 3