We all know gaming consoles aren't exactly cheap, but the money you spend on the console itself is merely the tip of the iceberg. GameInformer breaks down the sometimes-unforeseen costs behind the Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360.
There's nothing wrong with playing a few video games—we've even been known to hack our own consoles from time to time—but you may not realize how much you're spending on that console after you've already bought it. Take the PS3, for example. When you factor in the necessary HDMI cable, extra controller, Cable extension, Bluetooth, and or one game, you've already upped your cost by nearly $150—probably something you didn't think of adding to its original $300 price tag. Obviously, not everyone needs all of these things, but most people will need at least some of them, and may not realizeit until later. Of course, each system gouges you in different ways, too—the Wii may have free online play, but its extra, non-rechargeable controllers are more expensive than controllers on other systems.
The article takes into account TVs too, which I don't know if I'd consider part of my gaming expense (unless that's all I'm using it for), and while I think comparing the PS3's overall cost to the Wii's is like comparing apples and oranges (spoiler alert: The Wii is way cheaper), it does help you have a more realistic outlook when you pick up one of these gaming systems. Next time you buy, make sure you're factoring in the cost of all the other peripherals you need. You may decide to wait for a drop in price, or just add a new video card to your PC for a few hundred dollars less. Hit the link for the full breakdown, and share your thoughts on the subject in the comments. Photo by PseudoGil.
The Hidden Costs of Gaming [GameInformer via Consumerist]
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