Console updates can be a game-changer

It’s a funny time for video games. The choices used to be really simple: you picked your console – Sega, Nintendo, Atari or whoever else – and games “just worked” when you stuck them in. But in 2018, it’s a little bit different.

Now consoles receive iterative updates within each major generation of hardware, which can be either minor tweaks or significant overhauls to the technology. This makes it a bit harder to keep track of what the actual differences are between each bump (eg, from Xbox One to One S to One X).

But it also provides flexibility, meaning you can prioritise performance and features (and pay more), or save money by settling for less advanced tech.

For what it’s worth, any confusion over all these options doesn’t seem to be hurting the industry: the console market hit $US41 billion ($56 billion) in 2017. Sony has the biggest share, followed by Microsoft, then Nintendo, enjoying a comeback with the Switch, which provides a unique, portable alternative to the PlayStation/Xbox scene.

Of course, another significant alternative is PC gaming, which offers the most powerful gaming hardware of all.

What is it? Microsoft Xbox One X

How much? $649 Pros: The newest console is the most powerful one you can buy. The third Xbox One succeeds the One S with a faster processor and significantly beefier graphics, giving true 4K, HDR gaming for optimised titles. If console performance is your priority, this is it.

Cons: The One X is also the most expensive console, and many argue that the PlayStation’s games library this generation is superior. Consider that, or a cheaper One S, for budget reasons. xbox.com/en-au

What is it? Sony PlayStation 4 Pro

How much? $559 Pros: While no longer the performance king, the Pro is still powerful, substantially more than the still available PS4. Optimised games run in 4K and HDR (if your TV allows), if not as smoothly as the Xbox One X. Still, the PS4 enjoys a wider range of top-tier exclusive games, helping make it the biggest console this generation.

Cons: The standard PS4 is significantly cheaper and runs all the same titles (with less visual pizazz). playstation.com/ en-au What is it? Gaming PC

How much? Varies Pros: If what’s most important to you is the ability to run the latest games with the highest resolution, frame rates, maxed-out settings and all the other bells and whistles, a dedicated gaming PC wins hands down over consoles. Build your own with the expert help of your local PC shop, or pick up one of its pre-configured systems.

Cons: Potentially expensive, requiring more know-how and maintenance than consoles. This is a choice for enthusiasts who have plenty of time to spare.