Tech expert has 10 tips for parents of young gamers

There are a lot of new console and gaming options this fall, here’s what you need to know

The list of new gaming technology “coming soon” seems to grow by the week. In November, the Xbox One and PS4, successors to the Xbox 360 and the PS3, arrive. Nintendo is releasing the 2DS, Sony has revamped its portable, the PS Vita, and new players in Android and PC gaming are also expected.

It is easy for young gamers to get excited, and by now, there are plenty of kids and teenagers who are begging parents to buy one or more of these devices.

So, inspired by the questions I’ve been asked, here’s a guide for parents.

1. Xbox One or PS4?

Both are more powerful and have better graphics than their predecessors and unique functions. Both have Blu-ray players and media hub capabilities. The PS4 (out Nov. 15) is $400, and Xbox One (out Nov. 22) is $500. Xbox One has an improved Kinect motion control and TV capabilities, but some of those services may not be available in Canada. The PS4 has a more robust roster of indie games and cross-play capabilities with Sony’s Portable device, the PS Vita, (sold separately). When it comes to exclusive games, we’ll give a slight edge to Xbox.

2. Should I toss the old consoles?

Most new consoles are not backwards compatible. So if you buy an Xbox One or PS4, you can’t think of it as a replacement for the 360 or PS3 you may have. Keep the old system if you want to play older games and remember for new consoles, the library of games will be pretty small initially.

3. How can I convince my kid to wait?

Since this is a crossover year, most of the big games will be coming out for both the older systems and the new ones. These include Call of Duty: Ghosts, Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag, Skylanders SWAP force, Batman: Arkham Origins and more. Tell kids you’ll buy a few more games for the older system this year, and wait to buy a new console until next year when there will be more games available and the value proposition will be better. Also, remember new devices often experience hiccups. Early adopters feel the joy and often the pain of new technology.

4. What else should I budget for?

There are hidden costs, mainly involving accessories. Both new consoles come with a single controller, a second costs $60. If kids want to play online, you’ll need a new headset. As well, Sony will now charge a monthly fee to play online, similar to Xbox policy.

5. My kid has a 3DS. Should I get a 2DS?

No. The 2DS ($129.99), is due out on Oct. 12. It has a new flat-screen design and can play games made for the 3DS and the DS. It looks different, but has the capabilities of the 3DS, minus the 3D effect, which most people turn off anyway. If your child has an old DS, however, this could be a good upgrade.

6. My kids never play the Wii anymore.

Should I buy one of these new consoles?

The popular Wii was a different kind of console with much more casual approach. If your kids are older now, and ready for a more serious console, consider a change.

7. How can I get a break on games?

Most new games are in the $60 range when they launch, but tend to drop in price in the following months. Digital download versions are usually cheaper. Both big consoles have plenty of smaller, great indie games, often more reasonably priced. If you have a decent PC or laptop, consider online services like Steam, which is like iTunes for computer games, often selling for cheaper. Also look for used bins and trade-in deals.

8. Do we even need a console system?

Look at what your kids are really playing. Last year, a workmate asked me for advice on buying a Wii U or an Xbox 360 for his 10-year-old. I suggested the 360, but his son also got a new laptop. In the year since, the dad tells me the boy only plays Minecraft on the PC with his friends, while the 360 gathers dust. Many younger kids are happy enough playing games on iPhones/iPads and in that case, something like an iPod Touch or an iTunes gift card is a good idea.

9. What if I want a console for Christmas?

If you’re considering a PS4 or Xbox One, it’s smart to preorder. After the initial early adopter rush, they might be hard to find.

10. What if I want to give games as a gift? Make sure you buy for the right platform. The best advice I can give parents is to play games with your kids, not only to be aware of content and what they like, but because video games are awesome these days.