by Aspire2Be

Created on: March 03, 2011

I grew up on consoles and love them, but don't get me wrong, the PC trumps them in just about every way. At first I was skeptical. Years ago the extent of my gaming experience on computers was solitaire, flash games, and The Sims. Using WASD felt frustrating and confusing and I liked my consoles. I had no idea what I was missing until I actually gave the PC a chance as a gaming machine and I implore other gamers to give it a try as well. This is why...

Graphically, the computer is far more capable than consoles. So long as the computer is properly equipped, that is. The PS3 and 360 have amazing graphics, no doubt, and the Wii isn't hard on the eyes either. However, most PC games allow for complete control and customization over graphic settings. Playing on a console allows only for the default settings that the machine is capable of handling. The games are designed, graphically, to run smoothly on the console's hardware. Whereas, on a computer, you can kick those graphics up a notch with a few tweaks. Further view distances, better texture quality, more shiny particle effects and enhanced shadows. These are all things a PC gamer can adjust and enjoy in greater detail than their console counterparts. It is not always the case and not all games will look THAT much better on a PC than on a game system, but in many instances... the computer is the way to go for the best viewing experience. 

If purchased or built with gaming in mind computers allow for customization and continuous improvement over the hardware inside. I've experienced occasional lag while playing console games. Generally, all lag related to hardware can be avoided with the proper rig. As time goes by parts can be switched out to keep up with the constant advances in gaming technology. This allows immense freedom for creating budget rigs and high end gaming monsters. Eliminate most lag and enjoy great graphics. 

One of the best parts about computer gaming, in my opinion, is the precision. Once I got used to the keyboard and mouse setup a few years back I realized its true potential. In the past I remember distinctly denying that the mouse and keyboard could be easier to use than a controller. I was a console gal at heart. Today, I'm surprised I can still use a controller at all. I plugged in a gamepad one day to try out in a shooter and immediately went back to the keyboard setup because I couldn't even aim. Another thing about PC gaming is that it is possible to use 360 controllers or a gamepad that allows users to map it to ANY game. For some games this may be the way to go, I suppose, but for most the trusty mouse and keyboard allows for the most control and precision. 

Lastly I have to give a shout out to modifications. Mods and addons developed by players can add content and even more fun to a variety of games. Left for Dead, Oblivion, and the Orange Box are just three examples of games that can be completely enhanced using player made modifications. In Oblivion for the PC I was able to fly on a dragon, get new hairstyles, and cheat in a variety of fun ways. Mods change the experience all together, making a stale game feel new again at least for a little while.

Learn more about this author, Aspire2Be.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.