Hobbies And Interests
Controllers
The controllers of the PlayStation 3 and the Wii are completely unalike. The controller for the PS3 looks like the same controller that video game enthusiasts have been using for years on the PlayStation and PlayStation 2. However, it holds a little bit more. It also has the SIXAXIS system, which allows for the PS3 to sense which way the controller is leaning or moving. Motion sense is extremely important for the Wii controller. This controller looks like a remote control, with an infrared port on its top. You can connect various peripherals to the Wii remote, such as a controller that looks like a Super Nintendo controller, or the Nunchuk, which is an analog control pad.
Online Capability
Both of these systems come with wireless Internet connection capability right out of the box, making it easy to get online without leaving a mess of cords behind the entertainment center. The PlayStation 3 comes with the PlayStation Network free, which allows users to browse movies, games and demos online and download them, along with finding friends using a user name. Users can also download games for the original PlayStation online. The Nintendo Wii uses friend codes, a series of digits and letters, to connect users when they want to play each other online. Also, the Wii allows users to download games that were originally on the Nintendo 64, the Super Nintendo, the Nintendo Entertainment System, the Sega Genesis and the Sega Master System.
Backwards Compatibility
Backwards compatibility is important, as it lets gamers continue to use their old games when they get a new system. The Nintendo Wii is completely backwards compatible with the games of the Nintendo GameCube. It even has GameCube memory card slots and controller ports. The PlayStation 3 is backwards compatible with a selection of games from both the PlayStation 2 and the original PlayStation. (To search for backwards compatible games for the PS3, check the link in the Resources.)
Hardware
The two systems seriously diverge in hardware. The PlayStation 3 has HDMI outputs, allowing gamers to play in full 1080p HD, while the Wii only can go up to a resolution of 480p with component cables. The PS3 has a Blu-ray disc player, which not only allows it to play games that take up more space, but also allows it to play Blu-ray movies. The PS3 comes with at least 20 gigabytes of hard drive space, allowing plenty of room for saved games and demos. The Wii only comes with 512 MB of memory (though this can be expanded with a standard SD card). The computer processor for the PS3 clocks in at 3.2 GHz, while the processor in the Wii is 729 MHz. The graphics processor for the PS3 is 550 MHz, while the Wii's is 243 MHz. The PlayStation 3 is much more powerful than the Wii.
Games
The main reason for anyone to buy a video game console is to play the video games. The games for the Nintendo Wii tend to focus on being able to be picked up and played by anyone, using the motion control of the Wii remote or peripherals such as the Wii balance board. Fun and easy-to-use games like this include Super Mario Galaxy, Wii Sports, Wario Ware: Smooth Moves and Wii Fit. The games on the PS3 take advantage of the hardware and are the prettiest and most cutting edge on the market. The PS3's best games such as Uncharted 2, Final Fantasy XIII or Hard Rain have gorgeous visuals and rich and engrossing storylines because the system is capable of supporting them.