All About Gaming Consoles And Their Accessories

Video game consoles are ultimately the number one form of entertainment within the modern day home. Years ago, people used simpler things to entertain and amuse. Board games and skipping ropes were soon replaced by a new product called the 'gaming console'. The first console to hit the market was the Magnavox Odyssey in 1972, which was designed by Ralph Baer. Although the technology back then was ground breaking, today it would be overshadowed by the processor that runs a digital watch. The console was analogue, did not run off the mains and wasn't even capable of making a noise. It took four years to reach development and distribution from having a working prototype. Despite the lack of functionality, the console was a big seller and was a completely new concept as far as home entertainment was concerned. The console sales took a downward fall due to bad marketing tactics.

It took years of development before the first console was introduced. Although the graphics and gameplay were in terms of today's standards, they were still worlds apart from what people had experienced before. Apart from a few of the earliest models which had a few games built into them, you got two simple controllers and maybe a cartridge. The cartridge stored the games and therefore needed to be inserted into the console in order for it to work. The controllers were very simple and lacked most of the functionality that today's hand controllers feature.

As game consoles became faster, sharper, and more powerful, other elements of technology were introduced such as wireless technology. It wasn't long before this new technology was used with gaming consoles, and was built into the controllers to enable game play without the use of wires or cables. One of the first ones was the Nintendo Wavebird. This was by no means the first, but was probably the first decent one. It used a radio frequency and could transmit upto 20 feet. These days, most consoles come with wireless controllers as standard, some of which utilise Bluetooth technology and have the same game play reliability as controllers that are connected with cables.

Towards the end of 2006, a new breed of gaming console was born. This didn't match the pure power or graphics capability of the big players such as the Xbox 360, or the Playstation 3, but down to it's unique innovation, is worlds apart from other systems on the market. This console was called the Nintendo Wii. The way that this new console differs from the others, is the fact that each controller tracks movement which then relays back to the console. This has given Nintendo it's marketshare back and has once again ensured that they are serious contenders within the game industry. The console allows people to get physically involved which is a first with electronic gaming, and is excellent for parties and social gatherings. Unlike the Xbox and Playstation, it generally known as light hearted fun in a box.

With it being so unique within the gaming industry, it has spurred many manufacturers and developers to create a wealth of aftermarket products for use with the Nintendo Wii's games. These cool accessories include sports kits, fishing rods, boxing gloves, and swords. Some manufacturers have developed these products using a soft, flexible material which helps with the safety aspect of them. These accessories bring you closer to the game and increase user experience. Gaming consoles have come a long way since the early days, and an increased growth in popularity. But the question we ask though is, where will they be ten years from now?

About The Author:

Written by Andy Black. Co-owner of an online gaming accessory store which sells a wide range of wii accessories such as wii tilting steering wheel.

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