1. Consider Your Gaming Options
There are many different options when it comes to gaming. These options can be broken down into console and PC. I will continue to add to this list of gaming options as time goes on, but here is what we have so far:
Console Games: Consoles come in different shapes and sizes, but the most common are PlayStation 4 (PS4), Xbox One (X1), Nintendo Switch & Xbox 360. These consoles are great because they’re mobile, convenient for group play and not too expensive compared to a PC. Trust me; I know someone who dropped $600 on a gaming rig that lasted one year! An additional perk is that you don’t need any additional equipment other than the system itself—a controller will do just fine! Please note: You don’t need the peripherals or accessories for your console if you’re not interested in them or if they’re too expensive. PS4 comes with a handy dandy headset (be sure to set it up prior to use!), while X1 has an adapter that allows you use your own headphones via Bluetooth instead of using their chat adapter ($20). The Switch connects with a Pro Controller ($70) or Joy-Cons ($80) depending on whether you want handheld functionality OR couch multiplayer functionality respectively. Do you know any weird card games? Well, then the Switch is your system of choice.
PC Games: PC gaming has grown immensely in popularity over the years, and it’s easy to see why. You can build your own rig for a fraction of the price that you would pay for a pre-built system, and you’ll have more control over what kind of hardware you’re using. I had previously purchased an Alienware X51 (around $700), but I have since sold it because my current PC doesn’t need anything from its stock components aside from its RAM (which was maxed out at 16GB). Another bonus is that there are multiple ways to play games on PC—take your pick! You can purchase a game digitally on Steam or other platforms, buy it via disc or physical copy depending on whether you want an actual disc or just the game file itself (requires online connection to verify ownership), or use a subscription service such as PS Plus if you don’t mind paying monthly fees.
2. Know Your Hardware
Hardware is a big thing when it comes to PC gaming. You’ll need good, reliable hardware in order to ensure that you’re going to have the best experience possible while gaming. If you plan on building your own PC, then be sure to check out my post “Building an Affordable Gaming Rig” for more info! I’ve also written about some great options for pre-built rigs if you don’t want to build one yourself (or don’t have the time/know-how).
What Kind of Graphics Card Do I Need? What about RAM? Is 16GB enough? What About Storage Space? – These are all questions that will come up frequently as you make decisions about what kind of PC hardware is right for your needs. It’s hard to answer these questions because they depend on what kind of games you like playing and how much money you’re willing to spend on new equipment or upgrades down the road (if needed). For example, if I wanted a decent graphics card capable of playing games such as League of Legends or World Of Warcraft with high settings, then I would recommend something like this $100 MSI Radeon RX 580 8GB OC Edition video card for its price and performance relative to other cards in its class. If you’re not sure what kind of graphics card to get or want more information, then check out my post “The Best Graphics Card for Gaming in 2018”.
3. Know Your Console Options and Select One
There are multiple console options available to choose from. My personal favorite is the Nintendo Switch because I can play games on my TV at home or travel with it on-the-go! This console is also the first of its kind that allows you to use a controller in docked mode (TV) and handheld mode (tablet). The Switch’s JoyCons are handy for multiplayer games, but if you plan on playing single player games as well then I recommend buying an additional controller ($80). Here are some other great options: PlayStation 4 Slim/Pro & Xbox One S/X. There’s no wrong answer when it comes to picking a console. You should pick whichever one feels right based off your gaming preferences, budget and which games you want to play! If there aren’t any good exclusives coming out soon for your preferred platform, then try the others’ versions of this year’s must-have titles like Super Mario Odyssey or Assassin’s Creed: Origins. For PC gamers reading this who haven’t tried consoles before.
I hope you found this guide helpful! Let me know if you have any questions or suggestions for other posts in the comments below.
