Mike Nitroy

Contributing Writer

Christmas brings cookies, cold nights and lighted trees. They also bring college students the hope that we may find something under our tree that we couldn’t afford the other 364 days.

The PS4, WiiU and Xbox One each have their own pros and cons depending on what a gamer wants out of a gaming system.
The PS4, Wii U and Xbox One each have their own pros and cons depending on what a gamer wants out of a gaming system.

The future of video games is officially upon us and it is not cheap. Choosing which new next-generation system arrives in Santa’s sleigh with your name on it can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. The three leading home console systems aim to appeal to everyone, but each one has developed its own niche to fit exactly what you are looking for this holiday season.

Playstation 4
Releasing just over a year ago, Sony’s PS4 has quickly become one of the fastest selling consoles of all time, having already shipped 13.5 million consoles. The controllers light up, the user interface is smooth and the console itself is feather light and quiet; however since being announced, Sony has claimed PS4 is “all about the games.”

PS4 offers a first party lineup including Infamous: Second Son and The Last of Us: Remastered, as well as third party best sellers like Assassin’s Creed Unity, Destiny and Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare. Future releases include Uncharted 4 and The Order: 1886. PS4 starts at $399 and many retail bundles come with free games.

Xbox One
Microsoft’s Xbox One has the goal of becoming an all-in-one entertainment center, emphasizing voice commands, multitasking applications and the ability to connect a cable box to browse TV listings and watch your favorite shows. The Xbox One will appeal to those who favor the Windows Operating System and want a single box to rule their living room.

Xbox One has dished out huge games including Titanfall, Halo: Masterchief Collection, and Sunset Overdrive. Get Xbox One now to get ready for Halo 5 and Quantum Break next year. The system has a limited price of $349; a drop from $399, but this price cut will only last until the end of the year.

Wii U
If the PS4 and Xbox One were the two evil step sisters, Nintendo’s Wii U would be Cinderella: a mistreated and misunderstood piece of hardware that many may not give a chance, but shines when you look closer. The controller, or gamepad, features a touch screen allowing games to have interactive maps, viewing angles, and new ways to play games and features many games not available on any other platform.

Many third-party game studios do not release their games for the Wii U, but Nintendo’s first-party catalog provides substantial reasons for a purchase: Mario Kart 8, Hyrule Warriors and Super Mario 3D World. Coming this holiday season is the party favorite Super Smash Bros. Many bundles pack in multiple free games with the system are available this season starting at $299, offering the best price.

The Verdict
Each system will bring something unique to your living room. If you’re looking to play the hottest triple A titles smoothly, the PS4 is the way to go. If you want to overhaul your entertainment center and play with others online, Xbox One is a smart choice. If a hurting wallet is your concern, but you are still interested in a unique experience, a Wii U may be calling your name. No matter which system arrives wrapped in red and green, great experiences are waiting with each one.