PC vs Console: Can Your PC Replace Your Gaming Console?
The Resurgence of PC Gaming
For a considerable period, commentators and marketing professionals predicted the decline of PC gaming. It was widely suggested that consoles had finally reached a level of technological parity with PCs.
Many believed that after years of leading the gaming landscape, the PC platform was being surpassed by consoles as the preferred choice for dedicated gamers.
From Niche to Mainstream
Historically, PC gaming was often stereotyped as an activity for isolated individuals. However, this perception has dramatically shifted.
Since 2015, hardcore PC gaming has experienced a significant integration into mainstream culture, evolving into a shared pastime for people of all ages.
A Prime Time for PC Gaming
With the availability of powerful new graphics cards and a consistent stream of PC-exclusive game releases, the current moment is exceptionally favorable for PC gaming.
Now is an ideal time to reposition your PC, bringing it out of storage and integrating it alongside your existing console setup in your living room.
The platform offers a compelling gaming experience and deserves a prominent place in any modern gaming collection.
Addressing the Challenges of PC Gaming in the Living Room
It’s readily apparent that utilizing a conventional mouse and keyboard while seated on a couch isn't particularly practical.
Despite the convenience of Bluetooth connectivity, establishing a stable surface on your lap or sofa cushions for typing proves consistently frustrating. Furthermore, optical and laser sensors often struggle to accurately track movement on textured fabrics like corduroy. However, the desire to integrate PC gaming into the living room environment isn’t limited to consumers alone.
Valve, a leading force in PC gaming, is preparing to launch a new controller designed for its Steam Machine platform. This controller innovatively replicates mouse functionality through the implementation of dual trackpads. Instead of traditional thumbsticks, the controller features two touch-sensitive pads, functioning similarly to a flight stick. The left pad manages movement, typically corresponding to WASD keys, while the right pad controls aiming and precise actions.
Early testers of the controller, prior to its November release, report a smooth transition and, for some, a preference over their standard desktop gaming setups. This effectively resolves the issue of mouse control, but the question remains: how to address keyboard input?
For those accustomed to mobile typing, remote PC control is easily achieved with applications like Remote Mouse. This app transforms your Android or iOS smartphone or tablet into a wireless trackpad and keyboard, utilizing your local WiFi network. Simply connect both your phone and computer to the same network, establish a link through the respective apps, and you can then manipulate content on your PC with swipes, pinches, and pulls.
Related: How to Play PC Games on Your TV
Finally, Xbox controllers present a viable solution. They boast near-universal compatibility with PC games – with the exception of titles heavily reliant on mouse input, such as MMORPGs or real-time strategy games. Xbox controllers perform equally well on PCs as they do on Xbox consoles, and remain a favored input method for many gamers, even when a mouse and keyboard are available. Offered in both wired and wireless configurations, gaming on your PC in the living room can mirror the experience of an Xbox One, thanks to the compatibility provided by Windows and Steam.
PC Gaming: Surpassing Console Capabilities
With the initial challenges of operation addressed, a discussion of the advantages PCs offer over traditional gaming consoles is now appropriate.
Let's first acknowledge a key consideration: processing power. While it may be difficult to accept, a PC assembled for $400 will not initially match the performance of an Xbox One or PS4. This is due to the console manufacturers' ability to produce devices at wholesale costs, often accepting lower initial profits to recoup them through game and application sales.
However, a console purchase provides a fixed configuration. The primary benefit of a PC lies in its upgradability. Components can be replaced and resold, with the proceeds reinvested in new enhancements. This modular design ensures that performance won’t become a limitation a few years post-purchase.
By the time a new console generation arrives, a PC can often exceed its capabilities. This proactive approach allows for sustained high-quality gaming experiences.
Enhanced Streaming and Media Options
PCs offer a broader range of streaming capabilities than consoles, particularly regarding 4K video. Although rumors suggest potential firmware updates for the Xbox One and PS4 to support 4K, these remain unconfirmed by Sony or Microsoft.
Considering Netflix’s increasing availability of 4K content, a gaming PC becomes the logical choice for optimal viewing. Enjoying shows like House of Cards in true 4K resolution is a compelling advantage.
A Vast Library of Games
The sheer number of titles available for PCs surpasses those found on consoles, thanks to distribution platforms like Steam and GOG. Many games are exclusive to PC and offer unique gaming experiences.
These PC titles often exhibit superior visual fidelity – for example, The Witcher III in 4K is visually stunning. They also benefit from unlocked framerates, contrasting with the PS4 and Xbox which often struggle to maintain 1080p resolution at 60FPS.
Furthermore, PCs provide expanded multiplayer options through Local Area Network (LAN) setups, contributing to a more versatile and successful gaming setup.
Style: Not Just for Consoles Anymore
Considering the options, a PC presents a compelling alternative to traditional gaming consoles. It offers a superior gaming experience for those seeking enhanced capabilities.
The combination of power, versatility, and customization options makes a PC a strong contender. This is especially true when compared to the limitations of dedicated gaming systems.
Historically, PCs suffered from drawbacks like noise, heat, and bulky designs. However, advancements in technology have addressed these concerns. Modern pre-built PCs can now deliver significantly more processing power than consoles within a comparable form factor.
While achieving the same level of sleekness as some consoles might be challenging with a custom build, numerous stylish cases are available. These can seamlessly integrate into any living room aesthetic without appearing ostentatious.
Furthermore, features like Steam's Big Picture mode and diverse connectivity options provide solutions for larger PC setups. Games can be streamed in real-time to a living room TV, even if the computer itself is located in another room.
Given the numerous advantages of PCs over consoles, the continued success of console manufacturers is noteworthy. PCs offer a broader game library, greater processing power, and extensive customization possibilities.
Despite predictions of its decline, PC gaming remains robust. Repeatedly forecasting its demise has diminished the credibility of such claims over time.
Image Credits: Northwest Falcon, Valve Corporation, AnandTechm, iTunes