Game system shopping, need advice (Xbox 360, PS3, controllers, Wii)

[muffinman]

My wife and I talked about buying a game system as a fun way to entertain ourselves. So begins the research process? TIA for any advice.

It would seem the two main options are Wii and PS3.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of each system?

Are games bought for the PS3 only usable on that game console?

Are PS3 remote controllers truly 'remote' with no wires?

How does a 480p DVD look on a 1080p TV when played with the PS3?

Can a Wii play high resolution DVD's?

[Lindsey_Mcfarren]

If I were you, I would go to www.gamestop.com and find where they have a store nearest you. They have all the current game systems in the store where you can play them AND change out the games to see if its something you will like. This way you can experience them for yourself. Each one is pretty unique in my opinion.

I am and always have been a HUGE fan of Nintendo so I have a Wii as well as many other older systems. When the PS3 and the Xbox 360 come down a little in price I might invest in those later.

Gamestop also sells used games at a nice savings as well as other accessories you might need, like gaming guides, controllers and so forth. Games these days are expensive, its a nice feature to be able to play them before you buy them. AND no I don't work for them, I just have been shopping with the company from before they were called Gamestop, back when it was Funcoland about 15 years ago.

[Mike in TN]

I think the average married couple would have more fun with the Wii just due to the style of gameplay it is geared towards.

Originally Posted by muffinman

What are the advantages and disadvantages of each system?

Wii: Neat, interactive style game play. Innovative controls, easy to pick up for a short while to have fun, etc.)

PS3: Amazing graphics (1080p), has a Blu-Ray player built in, free online gaming via bulit in WiFi, etc.)

Are games bought for the PS3 only usable on that game console?

yes

Are PS3 remote controllers truly 'remote' with no wires?

Yes. They may have some on the cheaper models that have wires, but most all I have seen are wireless.

[belovenow]

Wii is incredible fun - my wife and I got one about a month ago. It is a blast and the games are light and get you off your butt to play them. In our minds that makes Wii superior to every other game system. The games for Wii also tend to be "lighter" than those offered for the ps3... our kids are too young to play a game system but when they do I'd rather have them play games which aren't very dark and I can imagine the Wii will be a big hit with them as well. I don't think you can go wrong with a Wii - just my two cents...