Console Wars

Console Wars are a funny thing. Some folks really get heated when discussing their gaming hardware and platform exclusive titles. With the recent release of the Sony PlayStation 3 and the Nintendo Wii, there has been a large flare-up in activity and discussion. Why even MSNBC now has a section dedicated to Console Wars.

Here at GameSpot, there is an entire forum named System Wars dedicated to the fanboys. Apparently, there are even nicknames for each type of fanboy:

- Cows = Sony Fanboys
- Sheep = Nintendo Fanboys
- Lemmings = Microsoft Fanboys
- Hermit = PC Fanboys
- Manticore = All of the above

Although, from what I understand, that type of talk is only understood in that particular forum. GameSpot also knowingly adds fuel to the fire with articles like this one: Xbox 360 Versus PlayStation 3: Graphics Comparison.

There's also a website named NextGenWars.com which shows you the current (estimated) sales of each console. Here are the current statistics:

Anyway, this stuff is fun to debate -- especially since each company (Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo) has taken a distinct business approach this generation.

- Microsoft wants to put out great hardware with the best online experience (Xbox Live).

- Sony wants to put out the best hardware with the best features of their rivals (online network and controller motion sensitivity)

- Nintendo wants the lowest price point with a unique game controller (Wii-mote) and play method.

It will be interesting to see how these companies and consoles fare in the next few years.