Through my endless search for blog topics and information, I find the odd article gracing my computer screen about how much better PC gaming is compared to consoles. And a majority of these "articles" (more like unnecessary, unequivocally true rants) are from computer gaming centric sites. These sites have the undying right to boast their platform and bash consoles as much as they please, but why do they feel obligated to do so constantly?
Among the gaming community, it's a universally accepted truth that PC is the elite platform. All console gamers (except a few idiots here and there) understand this fact, and some even applaud the platform. Without computers, games like The Elder Scrolls, Fallout, Battlefield and certain MMOs wouldn't exist on consoles and console gamers are truly thankful. The limitations barring us from enjoying the full experience are obvious -- no modding, for one -- but that's something console gamers have learned to cope with being associated with the platform.
While boasting within an article about a different topic is acceptable, dedicating an entire article as to why PC gaming is better not only shows laziness, but a lack of creative thought among the writer or publication. Readers of the article likely think along the same lines, or are curious (but aware) of the capabilities of the platform, so reiterating what is already the general consensus is needless and a cheap way of generating traffic. For these sites, instead of childishly assaulting console gaming, why not create a forum of discussion on how to further improve PC gaming, like the implementation of 3D technology or enhancing the multiplayer experience.
The PC audience viewing this post will think I am some console crybaby which couldn't be further from the truth. Right now, I am loving my time on World of Warcraft, and previously I dabbled in the constructive world of Minecraft (make sure to read about my adventures in earlier posts). Having a console is just easier for my financial situation. I only buy about three new games a year, and everyone I know uses the console as their main form of entertainment. Given the opportunity, if I had the cash and people willing to play, I'd totally transfer my focus from console to PC gaming.
Not that I am calling console gaming the 'ghetto' version of gaming overall, but it is certainly the cheaper alternative. And we get what we pay for. The PlayStation Network is a free service, but penetrable to online attacks. Xbox Live is $50 a year, giving gamers a secure network operated and maintained by the corporate behemoth Microsoft. And Nintendo's network is suitable for the family full of gamers. PC gaming is fit for the hardest of the hardcore, and well that is something to be prideful of, it doesn't make it appropriate to bash consoles without understanding an individual's financial standing and gaming habits. So knock it off.
Speaking of PC gaming, I'd love to do more posts on why the platform continues to be a massive success, even with the rapid rise of mobile, social and console gaming. Post your ideas in the comment section below. Also, do you agree with what I am saying or do you think I am being ridiculous? Please, be as angry as possible! Constructive criticism is always nice.
I completely agree with you, but the release of battlefield 3 with it's lead development on pc could tilt the pc vs. console battle.
ReplyDeleteNot really. Obviously the lead platform, and DICE's priority, is the computer, and the success of the Bad Company franchise adds to the contrary.
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