Years ago, people thought that video game systems were just a fad that wouldn’t last long. Thirty years later, they now compete directly with movies, music, and television in terms of sales and storytelling. In addition to PC and mobile games, the top three console companies are Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft. They each have their own proprietary titles and motion control support, but that’s where the similarities end. In addition, each of the companies’ game consoles has different characteristics from the others. In general, everyone has something fun to play (depending on what you like).

Nintendo is the oldest creator of video game systems of the three. With so many recognizable characters like Mario, Donkey Kong, Link, Kirby, and others, it’s hard to find someone who has never heard of them. When it comes to game consoles, the Nintendo Wii and its DS handheld are two of the best-selling devices in video game history. While the DS has dual screens, tons of family games, and even a camera for taking pictures, the Wii uses motion controls for just about every game they make for it. You can also play online games, surf the web, and even stream Netflix at no extra charge.

Sony became one of the newer console manufacturers when it released the first PlayStation in the ’90s. It was also one of the first game consoles to use discs instead of cartridges. Today, the PlayStation 3 is the most technologically advanced (and expensive) video game system available. With its built-in Wi-Fi, Blu-ray drive, 3D TV compatibility, motion control, plus Netflix and Hulu Plus, you get more than a device that plays games in HD. Plus, you can buy movies and TV shows through the PlayStation Network, as well as digital games and demos.

Microsoft is not only the newest entrant to the console wars, but it is also the first and only American company to make a game console. The Xbox brought online gaming to the forefront, as well as downloadable content and the Halo franchise. Today, the Xbox 360 is the best-selling game console this holiday season thanks to the Kinect motion camera and games with exclusive content. Although you have to purchase an Xbox LIVE Gold membership ($60/year) to play games online, multiplayer is rock-solid on this video game system. Just like with the PlayStation 3, you can buy and watch movies through the LIVE marketplace, as well as stream them from Netflix. Hulu Plus will be available in the first quarter of 2011.

In general, today’s video game systems will have something fun to play. However, it all comes down to what you like to play. The Wii ($199) is great for families with young kids, but not so great for online multiplayer. The Xbox ($199 for the 4GB system, $299 with Kinect) has solid multiplayer, but most of the games people play online are shooters, racing games, sports titles, and third-person adventure games. The PlayStation 3 ($299 for 160GB) is great for general entertainment fans, but there’s not enough content to take advantage of 3D TV support or motion controls. Take a look at the exclusive content of each system to help you make the best decision for you and/or your family.