So spring break has officially come and gone, but that does not mean the fun—and especially games—has to stop. In fact, a game console can be the perfect way to de-stress during the semester, as long as your homework is done first.
Here comes the kicker: deciding which game console suits you best. Two of the big competitors in the gaming world are the Xbox, made by Microsoft, and the PS4, a product of Sony.
When deciding which console is right for you, there are a few key factors that must be considered before you commit.
Price
As college students, it’s important to know the price of these consoles. Both the Xbox One and the PS4 range from about $280 – $400, depending on the model purchased.
Bundles
Each console offers the option of bundles when you first buy. These bundles are made up of games that are exclusive to the system. For example, the Xbox One has a Halo bundle which comes with “Halo 5” and an Xbox one in Halo themed colors.
Online services
In order to play online, gamers are going to have to pay for it. Xbox One has its Xbox Live service, which allows players to connect and play with friends from anywhere in the world. These services run for about $60 a year. The PS4 has a similar service called PlayStation Plus, which runs for about $50 a year.
Games
While it’s nice to browse the Internet or watch movies, games are the staple of these consoles. Each console comes with a wide variety of game titles. The Xbox One is backward compatible, which means it can play games made for the Xbox 360 too. The PS4, however, is not backward compatible but instead sells their older games though their online store.
Controllers
Both consoles come with a controller made specifically for that system. PS4 controllers can only be used on a PS4, but the Xbox One controller, made by Microsoft, is compatible with computers as well, provided that the necessary drivers are installed.
Media
Being the next generation of gaming systems, both the Xbox One and the PS4 are able to play Blu-Ray media. Combined with a high-definition television, both movies and games are played in sharp detail. While the PS4 is more compatible with Sony TV screens, being made by the same company, both the Xbox One and the PS4 work on any high-definition TV.
In the end, what’s most important is deciding on a console that is both right for your needs and budget. Just try not to let the console overshadow your educational responsibilities during the semester.
