Video game consoles have been around since the 1970s. Over the years, consoles have improved dramatically and their popularity has skyrocketed. Most people own or know someone who owns a console. The pandemic has accelerated the growth of gaming and the demand for gaming consoles. Millions of people are being forced to stay home and they are finding relief from boredom by turning to video games. These video games can be played on a number of consoles. 

New Releases

The newest Xbox, the Xbox Series X, was released on November 10, 2020. It sells at the steep price of $499 and comes with 802 GB of usable storage and a highly anticipated new feature called “Quick Resume.” This new Xbox feature allows users to switch between several games at a time without losing their spot in any of them. Senior Wyatt Oldefendt wants the new Xbox. Oldefendt said, “It is the best Xbox ever made.” There is a less costly version of the new Xbox, the Xbox Series S, which offers the same experience with lower graphics and no disc drive.The Series S also displays a slightly lower resolution and comes with half the total storage. The Xbox Series S costs $299.

The new PlayStation, the PS5, was released on November 12, 2020. The PS5 also costs $499 and has 667 GB of usable storage. It offers 4K and 8K resolution gaming. Both the Xbox Series X and PS5 are extremely popular. In the weeks since the consoles were released, it has been nearly impossible to find somewhere to buy them. Many retailers are sold out of the new consoles. Senior Dom Valento managed to get his hands on the new Xbox Series X. Valento said, “I had to wait in line overnight at Gamestop to get the new Xbox.” He also commented on the value of the Xbox Series X, when he said,  “Even if I don’t use it, I can sell it for a profit.” 

Another is Oculus Quest 2. It is great for virtual reality gamers. It was released on October 13, 2020 and costs $300. Not only is the Oculus Quest 2 the most advanced virtual reality console, but the least expensive too. Everything one needs to experience virtual reality is included in the box.

The last console option is the Nintendo Switch. The Switch was released on March 3, 2017 and costs $300. Although the Nintendo Switch’s graphics aren’t as impressive as the new Xbox or PS5, it is perfect for wholesome single player and multiplayer fun. Some popular games for the Switch are Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Minecraft, Animal Crossing: New Horizons and Super Smash Bros Ultimate.  

There are many consoles available this holiday season. They all offer something a little different. Choosing a console depends a lot on personal preferences and how much a person is willing to spend.