Whether it's your first game system or your fifth, choosing the right platform can make all the difference. With a slew of features and a long list of platform-exclusive content, it's important to recognize that there is no "best console," and the decision depends on your style and how you want to play.

Modern gaming can be broken down into three major manufacturers. Each manufacturer has its own independent consoles that carry their own advantages and peripherals to enhance your experience. Let's break it down into a little more detail.

Microsoft (Xbox 360/Kinect)

Released in November 2005, the Xbox 360 features a simple user-friendly interface that plays your favorite games, movies, and music. Sold in 4GB and 250GB hard drive models, the Xbox 360 boasts full 1080p resolution, wireless controllers, and built-in Wi-Fi for online gaming with an Xbox Live subscription. A simple download from Xbox Live allows for backwards compatibility, turning that stack of original Xbox games into hours of nostalgic game play. Users can also import media through the multiple USB ports into their photo, music, and video libraries.

Xbox Live

With a built-in wi-fi adapter making internet connection easier than ever, Xbox live offers a wealth of online multi-media and gaming content. Users can stream movies and TV from providers like Netlflix and Hulu, or integrate their Facebook or Twitter to share scores and achievements with friends. Xbox Live also features the Xbox Marketplace where users can download tons of content like game trailers, arcade games, or even full versions of older games. Xbox Live is available for free and subscription basis.

Xbox Kinect

Released in November of 2010, the Kinect is a motion-controlled sensor that attaches to the Xbox 360. Using your voice or body, you can control everything through the Xbox without every touching a controller. As an alternative to static, on the couch game play, the Kinect offers users the chance to truly interact with their game; running, jumping, and dancing their way to the leader boards and even a healthier lifestyle with content directed at fitness and health.

Best for: Novice to Expert gamers, online players, anyone who wants an all-in-one experience, workout fiends and those interested in motion-senor, controller-free gaming.

Sony (Playstation 3/Move & Playstation Vita)

Playstation 3

Released in November of 2006, the Playstation 3 (PS3) is a gaming console that moves way beyond gaming. Users have the ability to import music onto its 160GB hard drive and customize a soundtrack for their games. This same import feature allows users to store and display photos from a digital camera or memory card. A big draw to the PS3 is its ability to not only play DVDs and CDs, but to also play Blu-ray movies in full 1080p. Just like its Microsoft counterpart, the PS3 features a built-in wi-fi adapter and the play Playstation Network, complete with downloadable and streaming content but, unlike the Xbox 360, this service is offered to users free of charge.

Another unique feature of the PS3 is the cell broadband engine. Like a processor for a computer, the CBE allows artificial intelligence (A.I.) to adapt to your game play. For example, if you're a playing the newest Madden football game and keep running the same play with success, the A.I. will adapt the defense so to force you to change your strategy. Not only does this bring a completely new level of intensity to any game but makes you a better gamer at the same time.

Best For: All ranges of gamers who aren't concerned with the ultimate online experience, fans of 3D, Blu-ray fans, and media consumers.

Playstation Move

Introduced in November of 2010, the Playstation Move is a motion-sensing gaming controller for the PS3. With the Playstation Eye as the receiver, the glowing orb on the Playstation Move controller interacts with the games environment allowing users to navigate menus, control DVDs and Blu-Rays, aim a laser rifle, or direct a paint brush.

Playstation Vita

The newest addition to the Playstation family, the handheld Vita debuted in February of 2012. Unlike any handheld device of the past the Vita offers users a completely unique experience. Users can traverse an augmented reality or just talk to friends using the front and rear cameras. A six axis motion sensor lets users engage their favorite games and characters like never before by steering, tilting, and even touching their way to success with the front and rear touch screens.

A major feature of the PS Vita is the cross-platform play. If a player owns a copy of a game for both PS3 and Vita, they can begin the game on one console and finish on another. The multiplayer experience allows Vita users to seamlessly engage their PS3 counterparts (and vice versa) through a Wi-Fi, or 3G (AT&T) connection. This online access and a built-in GPS help users to connect with friends, in-game or with social media.

At the core of the device is a quad core processor, and a 5-inch OLED screen that displays your game in 960x544 resolution. Gamers can enjoy wireless play for about three to five hours between charging.

Best For: Mobile gamers, media consumers, social network fiends on-the-go

Nintendo (Wii & DS Family)

Wii

The Nintendo Wii was released in November of 2006 and was the first console to introduce a motion sensor experience. Its unique controller, nicknamed the "Wiimote", uses a combination of built-in accelerometers and infrared detection to sense its position in 3D space when pointed at the LEDs built into the systems Sensor Bar. This allows user to navigate menus and control their game through motion gestures and traditional buttons. Through a variety of controller add-ons like steering wheels and nun chucks, users can enhance their experience.

Again, users have access to downloadable and streaming content through the marketplace, however, the content is not near as plentiful on this side of the fence. The Wii also features the familiar backwards compatibility feature so users can enjoy Nintendo GameCube games as well. A nice little feature is the compatibility with the Nintendo DS, where users can use their DS as a controller for the Wii.

Best For: Parents with children who are beginning their gaming adventure, family gaming, party gaming, loyal fans of classic Nintendo titles.

Nintendo DS Family

The original DS was introduced in 2004 as the successor to the classic Gameboy. Several versions of the DS have made their way onto shelves but the current lineup at Abt is DSi, DSi XL, and the 3DS. They are all very similar with minor modifications.

The current Nintendo DSi was released in 2009 and features dual 3.25" touch screens, a 0.3 MP camera, VGA video camera, stereo speakers, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Users can listen to music, edit photos, and play games (even old DS games). The DSi Shop gives users access to downloadable content and applications. The DSi XL was launched in 2010 and has all the same features as the DSi with dual 4.2" LCD screens and a battery life of 13-17 hours.

The latest model, the 3DS, was released in 2011. It has most of the same features of the DS and DSi but, the addition of an accelerometer, gyroscope, 3D effects, and a new round nub-like analog stick on the left side amplify the experience. The 3.53" screen lets users enjoy a full 3D gaming and movie experience without glasses. A single inside camera captures 2D images and two rear facing cameras capture 3D. Photos can also be edited. Up to 10 minutes of 3D video footage can be taken through normal (with sound), stop motion, interval, and montage modes.

An interesting feature of the 3DS is the activity log that not only tracks game play and keeps a record of games which have been played, but also physical activity, counting each step taken while carrying the device. The more steps you take, the more coins you can get to spend on a variety of rewards.

The 3DS also features an augmented reality experience, and an internet browser. Finally, users can connect with other DS devices using the SpotPass Mode, or to Wi-Fi with StreetPass Mode for an extensive multiplayer experience.

Best For: All kinds of gamers on the go, 3D enthusiasts and amateur 3D video directors

Revised 3/14/12