How to Buy Console-Based Video Games

By eHow Hobbies, Games & Toys Editor

Rate: (2 Ratings)

There are hundreds, if not thousands, of video games. As is the case with the video game systems, some are good and some are bad. Evaluating a game is subjective, but there are a few guidelines to consider.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Video Game Magazines
Internet Access
Video Games

Step1

Read the previews and reviews of video games in video game magazines and Web sites.

Step2

Ask for demonstrations of games you are considering purchasing when you visit the store.

Step3

Consider the graphics. How good do the images look?

Step4

Consider the process of playing the game. How enjoyable is it to play the game? Can you do things in the game simply or are there difficulties in maneuvering characters? For example, is switching weapons difficult or easy? What kind of delay is there between your command for a character the character's response? Can others play the game with you, and if so how many? Can you link two systems together?

Step5

Determine how easy it is to set up the game controller. Can you adjust the sound and music volume, is the screen layout functional?

Step6

Consider the sound effects. The more creative, realistic and distinctive, the better. Does the game incorporate surround sound or stereo?

Step7

Consider the "intelligence" of the "enemy" in the game. How smart are their reactions to your moves?

Step8

Consider how challenging the game is. If you can waltz through a game on "normal difficulty," then it is not too difficult to play. On the other hand, if you are annihilated consistently, the game maay be too difficult for you.

Step9

Determine an overall feeling about the game. Is it fun to play? Is it worth the money you will spend on it?

Comments

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 While the actual scores given to games by such websites as GameSpot or IGN are cause of much dispute, one thing that remains generally consistent is that they outline the facts. They explain how the game works, how long it is, how well the controls work. The key is to notice the facts, ignore the reviewers opinion, and form your own based on how the game runs. Imagine whether or not you really would enjoy doing what the game involves, or if parts of it are much like other games you like or dislike. Also, if you don't mind long downloads, go to www.gametrailers.com and watch some gameplay trailers to get a feel for the frame rate and pulse of the game.

Anonymous said

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on 8/8/2006 Never, ever assume the the game of your favorite film will be good. In fact, these games are usually rubbish (with a few exceptions). If in doubt, ask if you can take it back if you don't like it. For example, I think GAME gives you 10 days to return a game (but not PC games) if you don't like it.

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