Playstation 3 Blue RayIt wasn't very long ago when DVDs were sweeping the world and making videos obsolete - now there's a new technology to contend with: the Blu-Ray. It's entirely possible that as our hardware and software develops, Blu-Ray could actually become the last generation of "hard" copies of movies that really effects us on a global scale. The reason? We can now download, stream, and App our way to a number of films without having to buy a single box.

So if you're going to get in on the Blu-Ray action while it's hot, then you want a PlayStation 3, right? After all, it's practically an all-in-one system that handles your video game entertainment, your movie watching, your dinner - well, okay, that last bit was an exaggeration, but you get the point. If you want high-quality movie picture, you buy that PlayStation 3.

That is, of course, if it's right for you. Here's how to determine if that's the case.

What Are Your Priorities?

Determining whether or not a product is right for you is a matter of questioning your own priorities. If you really want the Sony PlayStation 3, it's probably because your own desires match up with its strengths. (Note: for a nice run-down of the strengths and weaknesses of the PlayStation 3, check out CNet's review). If your loyalties lie with the Xbox and with the Xbox alone, it's probably because you have different tastes than your PlayStation-loving friends.

In the case of the PlayStation 3, the Blu-Ray capabilities are an obvious advantage. The PlayStation in its current incarnation is no doubt a world-class piece of electronic equipment that is entirely capable of being your sole Blu-Ray player if need be. If you already own a DVD player, then there's no reason to buy a new Blu-Ray player if you want one and you need a new game console: the PlayStation 3 will handle both needs for a reasonable price.

When Not to Buy a PlayStation 3

The other side of the argument is that the PlayStation 3 is, therefore, not for everyone. The price is a little steeper than the Xbox's price. Again, it comes down to priorities: if you really want a Blu-Ray player, then you may be perfectly willing to pay a little bit extra in order to secure your high-definition, sharp movie-watching experience.

If, however, you are not so picky about your TV's picture but are more about an overall gaming experience, then the Xbox may be more down your alley, especially if you love to game online. CNet's review of the PlayStation 3 noted that, for the PS3, "online gaming, media, and commerce options [are] not nearly as developed as Xbox Live." If you're all about playing Call of Duty with your friends online, there's no need to spring for the Blu-Ray - after all, how often will you even use it?

Where Technology Goes From Here

One day, a Blu-Ray player might simply refer to an App that you can download to your iPhone in order to project high-definition images onto your screen. It may mean having a subscription to Netflix, where your advanced computer monitor can allow you to view streaming Internet Blu-Ray-quality videos for a few dollars a month.

If you're not crazy about Blu-Ray, then we recommend the Xbox 360 as your gaming system. It provides a similar gaming experience in terms of graphics and usability, but has advanced features like the online multiplaying of Xbox Live that beat PlayStation 3's capabilities. Spring for it if you love Blu-Ray; otherwise, think about some alternative options.

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