32% smaller, 36% lighter and consuming 34% less power than the originals, this latest edition of the Sony PlayStation 3 Slim has been completely redesigned for a much more streamlined feel. Features such as video chat, internet access, digital photo viewing, and digital audio and video will likely make it the central component of your media set-up. Still, it is first and foremost a powerful gaming console.

The PS3 Slim boasts an HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) port, which delivers uncompressed, unconverted digital picture and sound to compatible high-definition TV and projectors. The system is capable of 128-bit pixel precision and 1080p resolution for a full HD experience. This console also provides for a sound experience by supporting Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS 5.1, as well as Linear PCM 7.1. A pre-installed 160 GB hard disc drive allows you ample room to save games as well as download content from the internet.

Built in Blu-Ray Player
Sony's PlayStation 3 games are encoded onto the Blu-Ray disc media format, which can hold six times as much data as traditional DVDs. This increase in capacity, combined with the awesome power of its processor and graphics card, promises mind-blowing games once developers have learned how to fully harness the new console's power. The PS3 will also support CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD, DVD-ROM, DVD-R, DVD+R formats.

 

Inside the controller is a high-precision sixaxis sensing system that accurately detects fine movements in pitch, roll, and yaw, as well as three dimensions of movement. This means that future PS3 games will be controlled by the movements of your hands rather than just your thumbs. For example, you might be able to steer a car by holding the controller like a steering wheel.

Online
Play all your favourite games online and much more over the PlayStation Network. With the 160GB storage capacity of the PlayStation 3 Slim, you can also store more downloadable games, music, photos, videos and much more. PlayStation network members can also download free applications such as PlayStation Home, a ground-breaking 3D social gaming community available only on PS3 that allows users to interact, communicate and share gaming experiences, as well as Life with PlayStation, which offers users various news and information on your TV by connecting the PlayStation 3 to the network.

The Nintendo Wii "marries the strongest heritage of innovation to the future of gaming," says Nintendo President Satoru Iwata. The new console boasts a smart, compact design, approximately the size of three standard DVD cases stacked together, and will come with a stand that allows it to be displayed vertically or horizontally.

The system boasts 512 megabytes of internal flash memory, wireless controllers, two USB 2.0 ports and built-in Wi-Fi access.

The Nintendo Wii console comes with a motion sensitive remote which translates your movements directly onto the on screen activity and features a built-in speaker to keep you up close and personal to the game.

To allow you to get gaming as soon as possible, the Wii console comes packaged with Wii Sports - a fun packed way of getting to grips with the new concept of motion sensitive gaming, whether your remote acts as a tennis racket, a golf club or a baseball bat, you'll soon get to grips with the remote that transforms your playing experience.

The Wii is also big on connectivity, offering online play, easy access to updates and patches, wireless DS interaction, plus the unique chance to download and play classic titles from Nintendo's entire back catalogue and more.

Billed not as a next-gen system, but as 'New Generation' hardware, the Wii promises to fit that bill in every possible way. It truly is unlike anything else gaming has ever seen before, and a definite essential purchase for anyone serious about having fun!