What do I need
to know about
online gaming?

20 Jun 2018

What do I need to know about online gaming?

Here's some tips to get the best from online gaming. Nowadays, you can play all sorts of games online. By yourself, with a few friends, or with hundreds of others. In fact, some games are only played online.

If you're thinking of joining the online gaming community, first consider which platform to use.

What set up is best for online gaming?

What's better - gaming console or PC? The debate still rages. Essentially, you have to decide what suits your individual needs. Some things to consider are:

Is game variety important?

If it is, a PC will offer you more choice. Bear in mind too that some games are console specific. A game on Playstation may not be available on Xbox and Nintendo, and vice-versa.

How critical is picture quality?

Newer PCs can handle better resolutions and frame rates than consoles. The picture is gorgeous and you won’t suffer lag with intense game play, depending on your internet connection and PC’s capability.

Do I want to play with my family?

If yes, a console is for you. You can all sit down on the couch and have fun together by connecting several controllers to the console.

What about online multiplayer?

Here, PCs have the advantage. Steam - the online gaming community for PC users - to play multiplayer is generally free without additional fees, after you purchase the game. Console players using Sony and Microsoft pay for additional online licences to play multiplayer games online with others on the same platform.

How much do I want to pay?

Good gaming PCs are expensive. You may also have to upgrade components as newer, more graphics-intensive games are released. Consoles are much cheaper and you don't have to upgrade until a new model comes out.

How tech-savvy am I?

Consoles are pretty much set and forget. A PC may require more upgrades, or experience software conflicts especially if you use it for other activities. Do you have the knowledge to fix it if it goes wrong?