A Beginner’s Guide to Console Gaming

Video gaming can be a complex hobby to start. Choosing the right system can make or break your gaming experience.

For beginners, console systems offer an easy set up and a large selection of games. They include Tetris Effect, a trippy modern take on the classic block-stacking puzzle; Untitled Goose Game, a comedy romp through a village of angry geese; and Kentucky Route Zero, an interactive storytelling game.

1. Get a Console

Often referred to as a root console, system console, or terminal, a console is a computer or video monitor with a keyboard that is used to maintain and control other systems. Modern consoles are designed to offer a graphical user interface that makes it easier to navigate than traditional computer systems.

Console gaming requires minimal setup compared to PCs; most consoles will be ready for use right out of the box and require no technical tinkering. However, some consoles require specific hardware specifications that are determined by the manufacturer.

Xbox and PlayStation have long attracted gamers with their exclusive titles. Graphically intense games like God of War and Uncharted draw older gamers, while action-adventure titles such as Ratchet & Clank appeal to younger gamers.

2. Install Games

Consoles are one of the most accessible ways to get into gaming. However, they can be limiting in terms of the video games you play.

For this reason, it’s important to make sure you have games installed on your console. You can purchase video games at retail stores or download them from the console’s game store. Either way, you’ll need to know how to install games on your Xbox Series X|S or any other video game console.

Before downloading games, check the installation requirements on the video game’s packaging or online description. Also, make sure your console has sufficient storage space to install the game. You may need to add a payment method if the video game is for sale. Otherwise, it will start downloading immediately and appears in your game library.

3. Connect to the Internet

Gaming consoles are the most popular way to play video games, with millions of people worldwide enjoying their massive library of titles. But getting started with a console can be intimidating for new gamers.

Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in an epic story or just want to relax with a puzzle game, there are plenty of options out there for beginners. Try Monument Valley, a gorgeous, Escher-esque puzzle game that’s perfect for beginners; or Kentucky Route Zero, an interactive storytelling game that’s just as relaxing as it is thought-provoking.

When possible, using a wired connection can also help improve your gaming experience by eliminating issues like lag. You can do this by connecting your gaming console to your router with network adapters. Wired connections are also more stable than wireless, and don’t fluctuate based on signal strength.

4. Get a Controller

If you want to play console games, you’ll need a controller. There are a number of different options available, from the classic DualShock to the more ergonomic PlayStation 5 DualSense.

PC gamers can choose from a wider range of controllers, including gaming mice for precision and sensitivity. However, it’s important to make sure your gaming computer meets the requirements of the game before making a purchase.

The easiest way to connect a controller to your gaming computer is to use a USB cable or a Bluetooth adapter. You’ll also need to make sure your device is set to allow connection from unknown devices. To do this, access Big Picture mode and select the gear icon. From here, you can open Settings and select Connection.

5. Set Up Your Game Library

With so many different consoles on the market, choosing which one to buy can be a bit overwhelming for first-time gamers. There’s the wildly popular PlayStation 5 and its exclusive lineup of games, the powerful Xbox Series X, and even Microsoft’s Game Pass on-demand game library that offers a great deal for gamers. There’s also Nintendo’s Switch, Sony’s PS4 Pro, and Valve’s experimental Steam Deck for more options.

Another consideration is that console hardware can become outdated over time, though most console gamers upgrade when the latest generation comes out. The good news is that games are designed to work with most consoles so long as the system meets the minimum requirements listed on the video game’s box or website. PC gamers often require more up-to-date hardware.