There are three major players in the video game market: Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo. Combined, these companies have six consoles on the market, almost all of which play separate games and provide different experiences. This article will help you decide which system is right for you and hopefully get you started in the exciting world of video games.

Sony

Coming out of nowhere in 1995, Sony launched their Playstation system to quite a bit of fanfare. The system went on not only to sustain one of the longest life spans of any console, but also shattered sales records. In 2001, Sony launched their follow-up, the aptly named Playstation 2 (PS2). Being first on the market, it put the company at a distinct advantage by providing great graphics, DVD playback (without any extra add-ons), and the ability to play standard Playstation games.

Of course, everyone bought the PS2 to play the new games. Sony offers some outstanding titles that are only available for its console, and that's the best reason to own one. They cover a wide range of age groups so the entire family can get in on the action. For adults, there's the outstanding Metal Gear Solid 3, a major turnaround from the disappointing Metal Gear Solid 2. Kids can dive in with the Sly Cooper series, which has surprised critics and gamers alike. Mature gamers will waste no time getting a game from the Grand Theft Auto series, which is both controversial and fun. Getting online is a snap too and most games are free to play.

The system also makes available some unique experiences. Buying the EyeToy, an innovative camera that simply plugs right into a USB port, anyone can actually be "in" the games. Only certain software titles support it, but those that do are great for parties, regardless of what age you are.

There are problems with the console. Due to its age, the graphics are slowly becoming outdated. Certain games that have been ported from either the Gamecube or Xbox can really look shaky. In fact, it can even make playing the games a problem. The hard drive that was released for the system was quickly and quietly abandoned. The new, slimmer model recently released doesn't even offer support for it. Memory cards, which are required to save games, are expensive (around $24.99 a piece). There are also only two controller ports compared to the four on the competition.

Recently, Sony has also entered into the portable market with the PSP. This is an expensive piece of hardware (currently $249), but it offers functionality that other systems can't match. In addition to playing games (stored on UMD discs, an exclusive format), you can also download music, pictures, and videos onto the system.

The games at launch are comprised from a variety of genres. Most of these titles have been ported from the PS2 with little loss in graphical detail. The system' s screen is brilliant with a high contrast and HDTV quality picture. Certain titles can also be played online if you have a wireless Internet connection in your home or a local hot spot. If not, you can always challenge friends with the wireless multi-player mode the system offers.

There are numerous problems with the system however. Notably, the screen is susceptible to scratches and dirt. This is not a system you can put unprotected in your pocket or one you want your kids to carelessly handle. In addition, to really take advantage of the extra features, you'll need a decent size Memory Stick. For the biggest size currently available (1 Gigabyte), expect to spend $130 or more. Some people find the battery life, which varies wildly depending on how the system is used, to be a problem too.