Guide Note

Video game consoles are electronic devices devoted solely to playing of video games. Full consoles receive input through handheld controllers and connect to a television. Handheld consoles typically contain the viewing screen and controls in one smaller and lighter portable unit. For information comparing the most popular video game consoles, see our PS3 vs. Wii vs. Xbox360 page.

Fast Facts

First console: Magnavox Odyssey, 1972
Common uses: playing video games, recent models can also play CDs and DVDs
Price range: $20-$500
NES introduced: 1985
PlayStation debuts: 1995
Next-gen systems arrive: 2005

History

The first electronic gaming consoles were developed in the 1950s, but the idea was initially believed to be unappealing. Two decades later, early models such as the Magnavox Odyssey, began to appear, with limited graphics and features. The technology has continued to evolve throughout the years, with upgrades in graphics, controllers, and the format of the games themselves.

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Products | Games | Video Game Consoles | Video Games

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Video Game Consoles

The Mahalo Top 7

Wikipedia: Video Game Console
Howstuffworks: How Video Game Systems Work
CNET: Video Game Console Reviews
PC Magazine: Video Game Console Reviews
wikiHow: How to Pick the Right Video Game Console
Chronology of Video Game Systems
GamePro.com: The 10 Worst-Selling Consoles of All Time (July 30, 2007)

Video Game Console Reviews

ConsumerSearch.com: Video Game Console Reviews
ConsumerReview: Video Game Console Reviews
Consumer Guide: Video Game Console Reviews
Epinions: Video Game Console Reviews
ProductSifter: Video Game Console Reviews

Video Game Console Buying Guides

USATODAY.com: "Looking for a new video game system?" (2006)
Consumer Guide: Video Game Console Buying Guide
eBay Guides: Video Game Systems Buying Guide
eHow: How to Buy a Console Video Game System
eHow: How to Buy a Handheld Video Game System

Video Game Console Most Popular Models

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Video Game Console Accessories

PlayStation.com: Official Playstation 3 Accessories
Xbox.com: Official Xbox 360 Accessories
Amazon.com: Nintendo Wii Accessories
eBay: Video Game Console Accessories

Video Game Console Message Boards and Blogs

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