Console gaming is getting so good, I've been loving my PS2. Try them all, and get the system that has the games you like. PC, Xbox, Gamecube, PS2 are all *roughly* equal on their capabilities (I know, X does more polys, Y has better sound, blah, blah, blah). Look at a game like Final Fantasy X if you think PS2 is "outdated" hardware. Just a note - if you're a gamer, your $1000 will either get you $800 worth of gaming computer and $200 of games, vs. $300 in console hardware and $700 in games. I'm also enjoying the instant, brainless entertainment of console gaming, no worries about drivers, compatibility with my new OS, PATCHES ON BUGGY GAMES, or the latest game running like crap on the video card I just bought 9 months ago, and especially not needing to upgrade all the time (very spendy). Now I admit, I've definitely been sucked into the PC gaming trap, but I've been spending more and more gaming time on the console. Also, being able to game on a 36" screen sure does beat my 17" monitor. 🙂
Make your decision from the games you enjoy playing, then select the hardware. Don't do it the other way around, I think you'll end up being disappointed.