Games consoles have come a long way since the days of Space Invaders on the Atari! Manufacturers such as Microsoft, Sony and Nintendo have brought gaming to the masses with high-tech consoles that are suitable for the entire family, without letting down hardcore gamers. From the Xbox and Playstation 3 to the Wii, there's a games console out there to suit every kind of gamer!

Each games console has its own specific attributes, so it's not always easy to choose one. Perhaps the easiest way to decide is to think about what kinds of games you want to play: are you into high-octane, adrenaline-filled role-playing games, or are you looking for a more relaxed approach to gaming? This guide is here to help you decide!

The Playstation 3 and Xbox 360 are primarily aimed at gamers who are more interested in role-playing and action games. The Playstation 3 displays ultra-realistic, high-definition graphics to plunge you right into the heart of the action!

Thanks to the Playstation Network, you can even play games against others around the world – all you need is an ADSL connection and a compatible game. This really opens up the borders when it comes to gaming! You can also play with others a bit closer to home, as the Playstation 3 allows you to connect up to seven joysticks, so the whole family can join in the fun!

Like the Xbox 360, the PS3 is a real multimedia platform, boasting HDMI ports, internet access, online games and hard drives.

Nintendo's Wii is a revolutionary games console, adding a whole new dimension to gaming. With a more family-friendly concept, this intuitive console has been designed for players aged 7 to 77! Whereas gaming used to be considered a fairly solitary activity, video games on the Wii have been designed to bring people together.

Most games consoles include a handheld joystick or controller, but the Wii stands out from the pack with its innovative controllers: the Wiimote and the Nunchuck. These allow you to play games such as tennis and golf by actually using your body to control your actions rather than your hands. It's a new way to play!

You can get to grips with sports, whip through racing games or work your way around madcap universes with Mario and crew!

With more technology being packed into the latest consoles, video games are fast becoming one of the most popular forms of entertainment around!