Poll: PC gamer getting a next-gen

[Katana314]

Well, I'm a fan of Phoenix Wright, and now that LA Noire is out, I'm a bit forced into it...

I've just graduated, so as a graduation gift I'm thinking of either a PS3 or a 360. I'll still likely remain mostly a PC gamer for online, modding, and various other things, but I'd like to try some console-exclusives, and use Netflix on a TV.

I'd not like to debate which console is better, since they both have their appeals to different audiences. I'm going to give my take on what I like about each system from an outside view, and I'd like some advice from owners on what I should consider.

360
PROS
-Xbox Live is considered a better network service, more players and more intuitive
-Can be used for development with XNA Game Studio
-Kinect may be a bit of a gimmick but I may want to try it (or use it for various modding purposes or windows programs)
-I already own a 360 controller for my PC.
-Many XBLA games.
-Controller slightly more intuitive?
-More popular, better able to talk to friends online
-4 player local

CONS
-Paying monthly for online is a BIG negative point for me. I'd really like to make use of online services, but I see a monthly payment as pretty unfair, and honestly a bit pricey for me.
-Multiple discs for some games, as compared to bluray

EXCLUSIVES
-Gears of War 1 + 2
(feel like I'm forgetting some, but many popular games have been crossplatform)

PS3
PROS
-Free online MP and internet services
-Most of the good games are crossplatform
-Bluray/HD (which I don't care as much about)
-Modder-friendly with Portal 2 on Steam, Unreal Tournament 3 mods
-Can play PS2 games, a region I haven't seen much of (Ico, Shadow of the Collosus)
-PSN indies

CONS
-Hassle with recent PSN hacking; I don't fault Sony themselves, but I do want my data safe. Now that it's all over, I may be safer with them jacking up security.
-Company is occasionally stuck-up about things
-Less intuitive user interface?

EXCLUSIVES
-Metal Gear Solid 4
-Uncharted 1+2
-Ico, SOTC
-Portal 2 w/ Steam copy
-Rachet and Clank
-Heavy Rain
-God of War collection

Since I've never owned a next-gen, some of my info may be wrong. I'd like some advice on what I should be considering more, or not so worried about.

 

[Axzarious]

You forgot about Demon's Souls!

 

[mad825]

Hard to say...

If I had to get either one, it would be solely based on my attitude towards gaming in general. If I was more of a social gamer (which I'm not) I would get the 360 otherwise the PS3 would suite my hardware geekyness with slightly better graphics providing that you have the monitor to support 1080pi

Then again, if I were in your position I would get the PS3 then buy a second hand 360 at a reduced cost.

 

[BlueberryMUNCH]

I own both consoles, and find the PS3 to be the better console.
I find the interface to be a lot better than the 360's, too.

Get a Playstation:].

 

[IrradiatedFish]

It's a tough choice. I'd go with whichever has more exclusives you prefer. I have both, but TBH I do have more games on the PS3.

Also, I'll repeat that I also vastly prefer the PS3's interface/think it's more intuitive than the XBOX 360s. But then again, I suppose that comes down to opinion.

You also posted valid points about their online services, but I can't comment too much on them because I'm a single player guy; I almost only ever use the PSN/XBL for downloading games, and once more I also prefer the PS3s interface in this regard, but whatever floats your boat.

Also, if it matters, I found Netflix to be more stable on my 360, but maybe I was just having bad luck with the PS3, dunno.

I guess for ME it would be the PS3 if I could only choose one (but again, I already have both :3), just because there's more exclusive games on it that I prefer.

Also; DEMONS'S SOULSZZZ!

Good luck with your choice