[SOLVED] Should I go back to console gaming?

[mike2012]

I've been a PC gamer for nearly a decade. Now, around 2012 when I first started getting into PC Gaming; the graphical difference between consoles and PCs was huge. In 2012 PC graphics were way ahead of the Xbox 360 and PS3. But then when the PS4 and Xbox One came along; the differences became less apparent. Sure you could definitely see the difference, but the graphic differences weren't that huge. However, PC still had a big advantage framerate.

However, now that you have the PS5 and Xbox Series X to me personally; I can barely tell the graphical difference. Also, PS5 and Xbox Series X seem to be able to run games with decent framerates. I'm a guy who is okay with 1080p, so I don't really need to game at 4k. There just doesn't seem to be a justification anymore to spend to $2500 on a gaming PC where there are barely any graphical differences compared to $500 consoles.

But that's not the only thing. Another reason I would go back to console is just for the plug and play of it all. With consoles, you get a new console, start it up, install a few things and boom you're playing games. No issues with drivers or bluetooth controllers not working or anything.

Also, this is a personal thing but another reason I've grown to dislike PC gaming is because of the crazes. Why does pretty much every pre-bult gaming PC have a tempered glass side panel? If you're a fan of that, great; but there should be a choice. Pretty much every gaming PC has a tempered glass side panel. I'm a bit OCD; so I don't like the idea of spending $2500 on a PC and the panel shattering because I accidentally dropped the case.

Another thing is, a lot of the games you could previously only play on PC you can play on consoles now. Civilization VI for example, used to be a PC exclusive but you can play that on consoles now.

I guess I'm a guy who just likes plug and play. The ability to turn on a PC, install Steam and instantly be playing games. I think PC Gaming in modern times has just become too complicated.

 

[Frag Maniac]

There's other things to factor in, like the cost of games. Typically console games launch at full price, and stay full price much longer than PC games, whereas PC games can be had at pretty good discounts right away. You also have to factor in the many other things a PC can do other than gaming, but that may not be important to you.

As far as see-through side panels, I have one on mine, but it is a tough plastic, not tempered glass, so it wouldn't likely break. You would have other problems than broken glass likely it you dropped your case on a hard floor, like crashed HDDs. If you're THAT OCD, maybe stick a note on the power cord where it plugs into the case reminding yourself to be extra careful carrying it before unplugging the cord.

Lastly, what games are you comparing the look and performance of to PC? I ask because generally any exclusives made just for Xbox or PS always perform and look better than multiplatform titles. Generally speaking nothing beats PC for performance across all titles, and we're even seeing titles that were once exclusives come to it, and the visuals always look better than on console (Red Dead Redemption 2, Days Gone, etc).

That said, now is not a good time to compare because of the chip shortage causing havoc with PC component pricing and availability. Also, everyone knows that console manufacturers sell their platforms at little to no profit, sometimes even a loss, just to get more players on their systems buying their big titles. So beware that it's a hook to lure you in to their exclusives, but also keep in mind they have no control over how well non exclusive titles play on their systems.

Keep in mind, consoles, unlike PCs, are like cell phones. They make most of their money on counting on you buying their games, not on the system itself, so you really should be thinking about how ALL games play, vs just the exclusives or system hardware.

 

[sizzling]

Its a personal choice, no right or wrong here. For me pc still has very noticeable graphics improvements even at 1080p. The same games on pc look way better than my Series X. Console support for higher than 60fps is very limited and comes at more detail compromise. However the big draw for pc and my gaming is keyboard and mouse support for all games. While a few games I do prefer a controller most I prefer k/m.

However if only after 1080p 60fps I can totally see your points.

 

[Frag Maniac]

However the big draw for pc and my gaming is keyboard and mouse support for all games. While a few games I do prefer a controller most I prefer k/m.

This is something I forgot to mention, and I don't know why because it's always been one of the main things that's kept me from buying a console. Mice are MUCH easier to play shooters with, and to anyone who wants to argue that statement, why do most console shooter titles STILL have aim assist as an option, whereas the PC version of the same games don't? Why, because you simply don't need aim assist with a mouse.

On rare occasion, there are players whom grew up on consoles and never touched a PC or mouse, that are actually worse with a mouse, but mice are a lot quicker to get the feel of because moving your hand the direction you're aiming and looking simultaneously, plus using your index finger to shoot with as you would with the trigger of a gun, is just more natural than using separate sticks for look and aim with your thumbs all different directions.

At some point console manufacturers need to own up to the fact that for decades they've taught players bad habits with these antiquated control devices called gamepads, which STILL need a crutch called Aim Assist. So if bragging rights mean anything among your piers, it carries more weight to say you beat a tough shooter on KB/M, even though mice are easier to use than gamepads, because there's typically no aim assist with mice.

 

[punkncat]

If the only thing you are using the machine for is to play games, I think a console is a smart choice. As you mention, it's very plug and play. Both of the major game consoles on the market have a vast library of games that all play acceptably well on the device.

If you want to do pretty much anything else on the machine than watch a video....well.

 

[hotaru.hino]

There just doesn't seem to be a justification anymore to spend to $2500 on a gaming PC where there are barely any graphical differences compared to $500 consoles.

If the PC is solely meant for gaming and your performance requirements are relatively tame, then sure, this makes sense. But a console is a pure gaming machine (or really, entertainment machine). You can do more with a gaming PC and with better performance than say a Dell XPS laptop. But if the performance of said laptop is satisfactory, then a gaming PC makes even less sense.

If you don't think spending that much is worth based on your requirements, then go with what makes sense to you and ignore what people say. They're just angry you're content while they go off chasing unobtanium.

 

[Barty1884]

There just doesn't seem to be a justification anymore to spend to $2500 on a gaming PC where there are barely any graphical differences compared to $500 consoles.

This is a very simplistic way to look at it. Not that it's 'wrong', far from it, just simplistic.

Are there differences in quality, sure. Is there the flexibility to change/lower/increase settings, of course.
Then there's the ability to play exclusives, indie titles or even emulation if that's your thing.

Of course, to the vast majority of people that does not justify the 5x cost, especially if they only game.


The only saving grace argument I could see for PC gaming (beyond indie titles, steam sales etc) would be that what you have today doesn't have to be your end state.

For the vast majority of people, something like a 3060 is more than enough today. While the PS5 or XBSX might 'win' in terms of quality today.... that may not be the case towards the end of it's lifespan. Hardware is closer to 1:1 right now.... but expect that gap to open up over the lifespan of a console. 5+ years from now, the hardware in a console is still going to be the same. Games are verify well optimized for that hardware, and developers can do some great things in keeping titles compatible, but sacrifices do tend to have to be made vs the PC counterparts.

Consider cost of entry (assuming you can buy parts at MSRP, of course).
Say ~$750 (with a 3060 @ $329) initially. Console "wins"..
BUT
+$329 again in 3-4 years (similar calibre of GPU, couple generations later)..... chances are pretty good the PC "wins" in the long term.


Think back to PS4 era. At launch time, a ~$300 class GPU was a GTX660 (+/-).
+$250 netted you a 6GB 1060 approx 3 years later, when you could've still recouped some money from the 660.

If you were still running the OG PS4 when the PS5 launched, your GPU was something in the neighbourhood of an HD7850, in 2020. Games were very well optimized for said 7850(ish) GPU, but still, performance-wise it was miles behind.


Of course, at the ~$2500 argument to 'match' PC to Console day #1, it's a no brainer. At a more 'normal' cost of entry, ~$750, it's a little easier to rationalize, for the long-term play.

 

[MMorris666]

On rare occasion, there are players whom grew up on consoles and never touched a PC or mouse, that are actually worse with a mouse, but mice are a lot quicker to get the feel of because moving your hand the direction you're aiming and looking simultaneously, plus using your index finger to shoot with as you would with the trigger of a gun, is just more natural than using separate sticks for look and aim with your thumbs all different directions.

Thats close to me, life long console gamer but i don't have trouble with the mouse, it's keys i can't get my head around. Movement suffers massively.

 

[dudio]

Short answer: NO

 

[Frag Maniac]

Thats close to me, life long console gamer but i don't have trouble with the mouse, it's keys i can't get my head around. Movement suffers massively.

Really? I don't know if I've ever heard someone say that about keyboard foot movement, unless you mean tough platforming sections like Doom Eternal has. It can definitely be a hinderance in race games though, especially those that don't have good control schemes for keyboard.

 

[MMorris666]

no, fps games. i was above average on console, my aim is fine on pc but have no confidence in my movement. i tried for a few years to learn k&m but i just stick to controller now. games like warzone and destiny 2 are made with controllers in mind so its a pretty level playing field.
i only use k&m on games i have to.

 

[Deleted member 14196]

I went back to Consol gaming over a decade ago and never looked back. And now with a series X there’s no reason for me to ever go with the PC again

I enjoy all the benefits of no stuttering, no messing with drivers or any software for that matter other than copying the game to my ssd

So when I want to game all I have to do is turn on my controller when I’m in

 

[Frag Maniac]

no, fps games.

You DO realize the game I exampled, Doom Eternal, IS an FPS game, right?

 

[MMorris666]

must admit i skimmed thought it, it was the platform bit that through me lol. i remember before there were fps games, i imagined what it would be like to play a in first person perspective. it was scary how close doom came to what i dreamed up.

 

[boju]

no, fps games. i was above average on console, my aim is fine on pc but have no confidence in my movement. i tried for a few years to learn k&m but i just stick to controller now. games like warzone and destiny 2 are made with controllers in mind so its a pretty level playing field.
i only use k&m on games i have to.

Keyboard wasd scheme should be default for most modern titles ( Im left handed mouse player so i use kp_keys and need to rebind ), just make sure left/right movement binds are set for strafing and not turning, that would be very awkward.

 

[MMorris666]

always wondered about lefties. what keys do you use?

 

[boju]

Num pad keys (kp). 8 4 5 6 for movement and utilise keys around for other stuff like reload, flash light, individual weapon binds. Individual weapon binds helps in fast pace fps like doom rather than use mouse wheel to switch. I rebind normal arrow keys as well for other similar things and thumb controls those.

Funny im actually right handed. Reason i went left hand mouse was because of Wolfenstein 3D using arrow keys to move and left ctrl to shoot. When progressing to using mouse all those years ago i kept to the same sides lol.

 

[mamasan2000]

I've been a PC gamer for nearly a decade. Now, around 2012 when I first started getting into PC Gaming; the graphical difference between consoles and PCs was huge. In 2012 PC graphics were way ahead of the Xbox 360 and PS3. But then when the PS4 and Xbox One came along; the differences became less apparent. Sure you could definitely see the difference, but the graphic differences weren't that huge. However, PC still had a big advantage framerate.

However, now that you have the PS5 and Xbox Series X to me personally; I can barely tell the graphical difference. Also, PS5 and Xbox Series X seem to be able to run games with decent framerates. I'm a guy who is okay with 1080p, so I don't really need to game at 4k. There just doesn't seem to be a justification anymore to spend to $2500 on a gaming PC where there are barely any graphical differences compared to $500 consoles.

But that's not the only thing. Another reason I would go back to console is just for the plug and play of it all. With consoles, you get a new console, start it up, install a few things and boom you're playing games. No issues with drivers or bluetooth controllers not working or anything.

Also, this is a personal thing but another reason I've grown to dislike PC gaming is because of the crazes. Why does pretty much every pre-bult gaming PC have a tempered glass side panel? If you're a fan of that, great; but there should be a choice. Pretty much every gaming PC has a tempered glass side panel. I'm a bit OCD; so I don't like the idea of spending $2500 on a PC and the panel shattering because I accidentally dropped the case.

Another thing is, a lot of the games you could previously only play on PC you can play on consoles now. Civilization VI for example, used to be a PC exclusive but you can play that on consoles now.

I guess I'm a guy who just likes plug and play. The ability to turn on a PC, install Steam and instantly be playing games. I think PC Gaming in modern times has just become too complicated.

If you treat your PC like a console, it's going to behave like one. Theres very rarely a reason to update drivers, for example. If they work for you, why upgrade? All that can do is introduce instability. Don't install 100s of programs, utilities etc that can possibly slow down everything. And as added bonus, no viruses or malware since you are not downloading random program #46 from the internet.

For the pre-built case, check if you can change the case to one without glass. I don't see the point of it either. If not, build PC by yourself. It's not hard. Plus generally saves you money and you get the EXACT components you want. I have never payed over 1000 dollars for a system, in 21 years. These days I'm gaming at 1440p. The extra you are paying for a pre-built is some monitor you might not like at all, mouse and keyboard that are barely servicable. Usually also proprietary PSUs and power solutions which makes it impossible to upgrade later with parts from the normal PC market. So you are just locking yourself down, on top of paying more for less. And 'support'. You can figure out most stuff on your own or by Googling (using Google).

 

[Deleted member 14196]

no, fps games. i was above average on console, my aim is fine on pc but have no confidence in my movement. i tried for a few years to learn k&m but i just stick to controller now. games like warzone and destiny 2 are made with controllers in mind so its a pretty level playing field.
i only use k&m on games i have to.

That is false there are plenty of first person shooter games. There aren’t many games on PC if any that aren’t on Console as well

 

[hotaru.hino]

If you treat your PC like a console, it's going to behave like one. Theres very rarely a reason to update drivers, for example. If they work for you, why upgrade? All that can do is introduce instability. Don't install 100s of programs, utilities etc that can possibly slow down everything. And as added bonus, no viruses or malware since you are not downloading random program #46 from the internet.

This is pretty sound advice regardless of what your use case for the computer is.

 

[RemmRun]

If ease of use is what you are looking for, yes console is the way to go. For me, and probably others, I like build and tinker around in my PC, getting the max out of it, and no I don't have a case with a view.
I think $2,500 is a little high. Sure you can spend $2,500 on a PC, but for a good gaming PC it will still be more than a console, but more around maybe $1,000 or $1,500 in today's extreme video card cost world. Also are you including the monitor? If so then the price of a console is higher too, since of course they don't come with a TV. Also the prices for games on the PC are much lower after initial release.
My current PC is an AMD FX-8350, pushing 10 years old. a few upgrades over the years, 16G ram, SSD and a 8G vid card (bought at $130, just before the price hikes) it runs everything nice at high detail.
Again, it's your choice, either way it fine, I just can't get over the fact that you can't self-upgrade a console.

 

[MMorris666]

That is false there are plenty of first person shooter games. There aren’t many games on PC if any that aren’t on Console as well

errr, I don't think you understood what I was saying and i'm not sure what you're getting at?