Best Console (XBOX360 vs. PS3 vs. Wii)

It depends what you want it for. If you're a fan of action or driving games with good graphics, go for the PS3 or 360. If you'd prefer arcade-y graphics games, and are looking for a family friendly console, get a Wii. The Wii is also good for the "keep fit" type, as you have to wave your arms around to do things. Obviously, this is a bit of a hindrance in confined spaces. Conversely, the PS3 and 360 are very good in confined spaces, as they have wireless controllers (PS3 uses bluetooth, while the 360 uses radio signals) so you don't need to worry about anyone falling over the leads.

Also, if you want to play online, the 360 might not be the best idea if you're on a tight budget. You have to pay a subscription fee to play on Xbox Live (works out about £40/$80 a year), whereas the PS3 lets you play online free. Also, the PS3 has a built in internet browser, so you can watch youtube videos, browse ebay and look things up on Wikipedia all from the comfort of your armchair. I'm not sure how the Wii performs online, I've never used one, but I'd assume you have to pay there, too.

The PS3 is also better for films etc, as it has a blu-ray reader (which can also read DVDs), whereas the Wii and 360 only have normal DVD drives. The PS3's remote also uses bluetooth technology, so you don't need to point it at the console, unlike the 360.

Price-wise, the Wii might be your cheapest option, whereas the PS3 is by far the most expensive.

Personally, I'd buy a PS3, but being the most expensive option this will take you longer to get than a 360 or Wii.

I wanted all the consoles but I chose the Arcade Xbox 360 for $200 and I bought a $50 20gb hard drive off ebay. Even though I didn't have any games the xbox came with 5 arcade games. The first game I bought was Bioshock. That was a year ago and luckilly my xbox is still alive and kicking. I also made game wishlists for consoles and realized that xbox had more games I wanted. You should pick the console that has the most to offer you.