What to buy... (PS2 or X-Box)

[Comp625]

Alright, please lets not start a war abot which console is better.

I'd like to ask you guys which is the better system that you believe will suite my needs.

I am a sports gamer. I love playing sports games on my PC but lately all of the sports games have been stinkers or non-existant on the PC (eg: NBA Live 2001 was the latest "good" basketball game on the PC - EA has stopped making NBA Live games for the PC).

Lets first talk about the financial situation. I am about $50 short of buying a PS2 or X-Box (they are now both $200 I believe). I have about 15 PSX games, the actual game console, 2 controllers & 1 memory card. It's the original PSX, not the PSOne. Do you know how much EBWorld would trade in my system for? I sorta don't wanna trade-in my games...as they'll be playable on a PS2. But if I decide to get an X-Box, then I guess I'll part with my PSX games. My parents will probably shell out some $$ for 1 or 2 PS2 games cuz my grades have been quite good so far (Honor Roll and all...).

***********

Now for the real situation. Which console should I get? A Playstation 2 or X-Box?

Why not the Gamecube? The Gamecube is sorta out of the question because I just don't like all of the kiddie games on the Gamecube. There are more kiddie/non-violent games than violent games on a Gamecube. Plus X-Box and PS2 both seem more promising as far as the game frontier goes (FFXI (PS2) and World Series Baseball (XBox) for example).

Here are the types of games that I like. I LOVE Sports games. World Series Baseball (X-Box) seems to be feature packed and I believe it'll only be available on the X-Box. Madden 2002 and NHL 2002 I already have on the PC. NBA Live 2003 (Fall 2002 - XBox/PS2) look promising though realism (or the lack thereof) might be a problem for me.

RPGs are alright in my book. I'm looking forward to FFXI only because my friends are...and I find them fun as long as I don't devote my whole life to it (eg Everquest). Wrestling games are also my forte...I'm looking forward to WWF Smackdown (PS2 - not Just Bring It, but a newer one that's coming out at the end of this year or whatever). WWF Wrestlemania X8 (XBox) looks damn great as well. But a las, most of the recent wrestling games have great graphics but poor gameplay.

I also like racing games...something that's sorta an abundance on the PC. I'm not talking about Nascar but more like Gran Turismo 3 (PS2). The Need 4 Speed games are also really fun when you're playing on a console.

I am really looking forward to GTA3 on the PC but I might just pickup GTA3 for the PS2 (if I get one) because I have alot of friends over.

The X-Box doesn't really have alot of games that suite my taste (nor my friends') but I'm a graphics freak and in a few years, I'd like my games to look at least decent. Like now, I think my Playstation's graphics are half assed (Framerate is slow in graphic intensive games and the graphics themselves are pixellated and blocky). The graphics are really horrible...but a few years ago, it looked amazing. Now, I want a system that in a few years, I won't be saying it looks half assed. I want a system that in a few years, will still have games be made for it. I want a system that will also have games that will bring me joy for the next few years.

I am also looking for a decent DVD player. My 19" tv sucks ass for a good $200+ DVD player so a decent one (built into X-Box/PS2) will suite me fine. Keep that in mind

So far here's my Pros & Cons list for both systems.

Playstation 2
Pros
- Has the ability to play all of my old PSX games
- Very large, great and sometimes cheap ($) library of games
- Graphics are starting to become a tiny-bit dated versus X-Box
- DVD playback without needing to buy a $30 remote (heh)
- Alot of my friends have this system, allowing for more trading and borrowing of games. My friends can also bring over controllers and other accessories like their own memory cards and stuff.

Cons
- Playstation 3 is coming soon (longevity issues)
- Inability to currently play online games (probably will be able to play games online in the future but for a monthly price)
- A higher amount of "lemon" systems being sold (eg: DVD playback dying after a months usage, cd laser scratching problems)

X-Box
Pros
- Graphics are top-notch (and has the ability to get better) for any existing console
- Can already play games online requiring only a hub/router and Gamespy software
- World Series Baseball (just seems like the most complete console baseball game ever)

Cons
- Poor selection of "good" games
- Recent issues of poor sales in other continents make me worry about X-Box's longevity
- $30 extra for a damn remote just to play DVDs
- Not many of my friends own X-Box so it makes it harder to trade games and have them come over w/o biotching about the huge controller

Does anyone else have anything to add to the list? Does anyone have any recommendations for me? Thanks so much in advance.

 

[wnied]

You already have a gaming machine. What the hell do you need a game console for???

Save your money and download emulators.
~wnied~

 

[FoBoT]

Toe Jam and Earl III is only going to come out for the X-box, therefore, you have to buy an X-box to play TJ&E III, i haven't owned a console since Sega Genesis (the first Toe Jam and Earl game was for it), I'm going to get an X-box when TJ&E III comes out later this year

 

[Omegachi]

this is a no brainer. PS2~!!!

 

[Comp625]

Why do you say it's a no brainer? Elaborate please?

 

[Comp625]

You already have a gaming machine. What the hell do you need a game console for???

Save your money and download emulators.

Problem...
a) I don't know where I want to download emulators/games for it
b) I kinda like to play with my friends on a TV. It's much funner than playing with friends on the PC (unless I set up a LAN or something).
c) Sports games on PC suck. High Heat 2002/2003 runs like a dog on WinXP (sound lagging issues). Triple Play is so unrealistic that even the suckiest players in the game can belt 50+ homers a season. FYI: Baseball is my favorite sport to play video/computer games on...

 

[Cancer12]

Listen to your pros and cons again. Ps3 isnt coming out for years. Way better games on Ps2. It is really pretty simple. I have all three, and my PS2 is played by far the most, with Gamecube next. After that its dreamcast, and then way down the list is my X-Box. There are simply very few really good games for X-Box and many more better games for other consoles.

 

[Comp625]

Originally posted by: Cancer12
Listen to your pros and cons again. Ps3 isnt coming out for years. Way better games on Ps2. It is really pretty simple. I have all three, and my PS2 is played by far the most, with Gamecube next. After that its dreamcast, and then way down the list is my X-Box. There are simply very few really good games for X-Box and many more better games for other consoles.

Longevity sorta worries me about both systems. X-Box and their poor sales (worldwide)/bad games. PS2 and their already dated graphics and probably crappy online play (I hope PS2's online play doesn't turn into some SegaNet clone).

I wish PS2 had a good baseball game though... All Star Baseball 2003 is yucky gameplay wise (already played it). Triple Play should be renamed to Homerun Derby. High Heat 2003 isn't that great on console versus the PC version (poor franchise mode or something...).

I guess you're right though...looking at my Pros and Cons...PS2 seems to be the winner in my mind. I just don't wanna blow $200+ on a new gaming console and being screwed 6 month later when the other competing consoles comes out with better games and better online play and better everything.

 

[Comp625]

Also, does anyone know how much EBWorld is willing to trade in the PSX for?

Lets first talk about the financial situation. I am about $50 short of buying a PS2 or X-Box (they are now both $200 I believe). I have about 15 PSX games, the actual game console, 2 controllers & 1 memory card. It's the original PSX, not the PSOne. Do you know how much EBWorld would trade in my system for? I sorta don't wanna trade-in my games...as they'll be playable on a PS2. But if I decide to get an X-Box, then I guess I'll part with my PSX games. My parents will probably shell out some $$ for 1 or 2 PS2 games cuz my grades have been quite good so far (Honor Roll and all...).

 

[Cancer12]

Have you played High Heat 2003? I rented it and thought it was great. In all actuality, the difference in graphics between the consoles is not all that great. Theres some real lookers on all the consoles, but PS2 is most supported by developers so that is where the game is at. That and Gamecube i guess because Nintendo as a developer should never be missed by anyone who likes games.

 

[dionx]

in terms of sports games, if you like Sega sports games, Xbox is the way to go. if you like EA sports games, PS2 is the way to go. EA will support PS2 in terms of online network play but is unlikely to support the Xbox online gaming scene. this is because EA has its own network, but Microsoft would rather have online support all be tied together in their own network, not a third party.

as far as RPGs go, PS2 all the way: FFX , FFXI, previous playstation FF, and the upcoming Disney/Square RPG called Kingdown Hearts.

in terms of action sports, Tony Hawk 3 is about the same for both systems although the controller is much easier to use for PS2.

in terms of DVD, xbox may be better since its hardware as oppossed to software, but since you have no home theatre, the PS2 will be fine as is. keep in mind that your tv needs AV inputs and the DVD feature will most likely not work through an RF adaptor.

FPS games like halo are better suited on the xbox since the controller is better adapted than the PS2. overall PS2 controller is better though IMO.

in terms of pricing, PS2 is better value. i'll break it down:
PS2 + memory card + extra controller + optional DVD remote + network adaptor: $310
Xbox + extra controller + mandatory DVD remote: $270

but wait, hardware pricing is a winner for xbox. but if you add games to the value, PS2 has the greatest hits titles (such as GT3) that go for $20 and bestbuy has alot of PS2 games in the $30 - $40 range. xbox mostly has games for $50 and the ones any cheaper than that are usually crap. so because of the pricing of games, the $40 difference in terms of hardware is easily made up by games.

pricing at bestbuy for PS2 games you mentioned:
Gran Turismo 3 $20
WWF Smackdown: Just Bring It $30
and every once in a while, i noticed GTAIII is like $30-$40 (i got mine for $30 at frys)

WWE Smackdown: Shut Your Mouth is the new wrestling game slated for PS2. it would originally be $50 but wait like a month and you should be able to find it for $40.
Xbox only has WWF Raw, and that game is not fun and is slow.

graphics wise, xbox is better, but if you see the graphics from FFX, in a couple years, i dont think you will think those graphics were haf assed at all.

my conclusion: PS2!!!!!!!!

(i may add more of my opinion later when i can think of more stuff)

 

[Pabster]

Neither. They're both overpriced, pathetic excuses for a "gaming" machine. With the current prices of PC hardware, there's no excuse for wasting even $199 on either of these "consoles".

 

[dionx]

Originally posted by: Pabster
Neither. They're both overpriced, pathetic excuses for a "gaming" machine. With the current prices of PC hardware, there's no excuse for wasting even $199 on either of these "consoles".

i'm no computer gamer but i wouldnt want to be. its too expensive to keep up with all the newer video cards that keep coming out.

and how fun is it to sit around a monitor with a bunch of your friends playing games.

the only games i see the advantage for PC are strategy and FPS, neither of which impress me.

PC gaming is alot of hassle to me. install this, upgrade that, patch this, patch again, configure that, another patch, etc etc.

there is no standard in terms of hardware. i prefer buying first party products and with computers, there is none. computer gaming is too open ended. then you have to upgrade your hardware again once another game comes out. its never ending.

 

[Stiler]

I say xbox if you want the best graphics, etc. And it doesn't have the "best" games because......duh its not that old yet, just look at upcoming games like Project ego, Brute Force, The Bruce Lee game, Toe Jam and Earl III, New Panzer Dragoon Saga game among others coming out, and right now halo is the best game for it, if you like snowboarding games Amped is really fun and Maximums Chariot is a heck of a fun multiplayer game for you and friends. I did have a ps2 and i traded it for a northwood setup, After you play its good games like GTAIII (on pc now) MGS2, ICO, Soul reaver 2 among others they are great games, but you gotta think the ps2 has been out for over 2 years and these games haven't been out since the start up. I might get a ps2 if they decide to make FFIX ps2 only.

 

[dionx]

Originally posted by: Stiler
I say xbox if you want the best graphics, etc. And it doesn't have the "best" games because......duh its not that old yet, just look at upcoming games like Project ego, Brute Force, The Bruce Lee game, Toe Jam and Earl III, New Panzer Dragoon Saga game among others coming out, and right now halo is the best game for it, if you like snowboarding games Amped is really fun and Maximums Chariot is a heck of a fun multiplayer game for you and friends. I did have a ps2 and i traded it for a northwood setup, After you play its good games like GTAIII (on pc now) MGS2, ICO, Soul reaver 2 among others they are great games, but you gotta think the ps2 has been out for over 2 years and these games haven't been out since the start up. I might get a ps2 if they decide to make FFIX ps2 only.

halo as best game?????? to me, not even close, i played the game 6 hours straight and got bored of it. its not my type of game. comp625 never mentioned anything about FPS gaming but if that were the primary reason to decide between consoles, then yeah Xbox is the way to go.

 

[SyahM]

Another vote for PS2. More games at better quality compare to XBoXs'.

 

[Comp625]

halo as best game?????? to me, not even close, i played the game 6 hours straight and got bored of it. its not my type of game. comp625 never mentioned anything about FPS gaming but if that were the primary reason to decide between consoles, then yeah Xbox is the way to go.

Hehe dionx. I am a VERY HUGE FPS gamer (I own all Quake games, Half Life, Unreal, etc.) but I have never really liked FPS games on consoles. Red Faction was the closest thing to "a good FPS game" on a console (in my opinion). I like the traditional mouse/keyboard setup...can't really stand aiming with the gamepads.

I say xbox if you want the best graphics, etc. And it doesn't have the "best" games because......duh its not that old yet, just look at upcoming games like Project ego, Brute Force, The Bruce Lee game, Toe Jam and Earl III, New Panzer Dragoon Saga game among others coming out, and right now halo is the best game for it, if you like snowboarding games Amped is really fun and Maximums Chariot is a heck of a fun multiplayer game for you and friends. I did have a ps2 and i traded it for a northwood setup, After you play its good games like GTAIII (on pc now) MGS2, ICO, Soul reaver 2 among others they are great games, but you gotta think the ps2 has been out for over 2 years and these games haven't been out since the start up. I might get a ps2 if they decide to make FFIX ps2 only.

Hmm I don't know much about the upcoming X-Box games (such as Project Ego and Brute Force). They sound good judging from the title. Can you guys sum up what those games are and how good you think they'll be?

i'm no computer gamer but i wouldnt want to be. its too expensive to keep up with all the newer video cards that keep coming out.

and how fun is it to sit around a monitor with a bunch of your friends playing games.

the only games i see the advantage for PC are strategy and FPS, neither of which impress me.

PC gaming is alot of hassle to me. install this, upgrade that, patch this, patch again, configure that, another patch, etc etc.

there is no standard in terms of hardware. i prefer buying first party products and with computers, there is none. computer gaming is too open ended. then you have to upgrade your hardware again once another game comes out. its never ending.

I agree, I was trying to prove this point in my initial post. I just upgraded my PC a few months ago and already Jedi Knight II runs like a dog in multiplayer. I hear JK2 prefers running on those processors close to 2ghz just to run optimally. Darn my 1.33ghz proc.

I don't mind downloading and updating my games with the latest patch. I look at patches in a positive way - you have the ability to update your games and fix old bugs with patches. Right now only the PC can do that...but that'll change when PS2 and X-Box unveil their broadband adapters.

And yes, I was also trying to state in my initial post that neither me nor my friends want to crowd around a 17" monitor to play games. Even though my 19" tv isn't exactly a huge change...I think it's the spirit of playing consoles in front of your tv that makes consoles so fun. 2 player gaming on 1 PC doesn't uphold that spirit so it becomes kinda mundane and boring. Not to mention, not alot of games for the PC are able to play 2 player split-screen (not to my knowledge at least).

Dionx, I like your pricing breakdown. I don't like how I'll end up having to spend more than $300 for either system if I want to buy games and all its accessories. Heh...I definitely need a job now.

Have you played High Heat 2003? I rented it and thought it was great. In all actuality, the difference in graphics between the consoles is not all that great. Theres some real lookers on all the consoles, but PS2 is most supported by developers so that is where the game is at. That and Gamecube i guess because Nintendo as a developer should never be missed by anyone who likes games.

I heard that with HH2k3, franchise mode is b0rk3d somehow. Like IIRC, you don't have the ability to manage your minor leagues or something? I don't know...forgot.

I know the difference in graphics aren't too dramatic between the 2 consoles but in a few years when the programmers get used to the code and bring out the best of the PS2 and X-Box graphics, I don't want my purchase to end up like my current PSX.

 

[Comp625]

How are the used systems from Funcoland? I see they are selling used systems online for $170 (funcoland.com - redirects you to gamestop.com). $30 can do alot in my money-deprived life.

 

[Bluga]

Originally posted by: Comp625
Why do you say it's a no brainer? Elaborate please?

Because it's no brainer

 

[MrBond]

Also, does anyone know how much EBWorld is willing to trade in the PSX for?

I think the psx console itself is worth $25 (I know). Games vary. If you look in Hot Deals, there's a thread about getting $100 off a ps2/xbox at ebworld (I think that's where it is) if you trade in a console + 10 games. I believe it has to be a psx, dc, or n54 though. You could ditch 10 of the games you rarely play and keep the other 5.

You might do better if you sell the psx locally or on ebay, but that's a lot of work, especially if you just want to ditch the psx at any cost.

 

[fitz4521]

if it were me...ps2...a lot better games, and i have a bunch of friends with x-box so if i ever want to play i just mooch off them

 

[RISman]

Which one of these systems would work best with an HDTV and Dolby Digital 5.1?

 

[Stiler]

Which one of these systems would work best with an HDTV and Dolby Digital 5.1?

Xbox can take advantage of HDTV and has 5.1 support

 

[Smolek]

microsoft is committed for atleast a few more years. The sales are picking up now with the price drop. Because xbox has the games i wanted to play thats system i picked, go thru the release lists for both and see which has more you like

 

[Comp625]

I think I'm gonna go with the PS2. PS2 has PROVEN that it can spew out awesome games. MS's "upcoming titles" list although has promise, doesn't exactly catch my eye. And although World Series Baseball (X-Box only) looks like it's gonna be a KICK ASS GAME, it's not even released yet and the game might not live up to its hype (like many X-Box games). So when I do get a PS2, I guess I'm boiling down to get High Heat 2003.

I'll probably make my parents buy me one of these games:

Either a:
A Fighting Game (prolly Tekken Tag Tourney)
or
An NBA game (prolly NBA Live 2002)
or
A racing game (don't know what game yet)
or
An FPS game for multiplayer (MOH: Frontlines)

What is the best game for each of the genres listed above?