Why should you own both a console and a gaming PC?

1. Can stream from console while traveling

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One of my favorite aspects of having a PlayStation 5 is the ability to stream games remotely while traveling. As long as you have a PlayStation controller, laptop (or phone) and an Internet connection, you can play games like Resident Evil 4 on the go.

2. Access to exclusive games on PC and Console

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Another great aspect of owning multiple systems is the ability to play exclusive games that are only available on certain platforms. For example, Nintendo titles are only available on Switch. It's great to be able to buy a Nintendo exclusive, like Luigi's Mansion, and play it. At the same time, you can access Xbox exclusives with Xbox Game Pass on PC and Sony exclusives on your PlayStation.

3. Can play games with friends who own different systems

Playing games with friends is also a motivation to have more systems. If you want to play Helldivers 2 with some PlayStation-only friends, you can easily switch to console. If your friends want to play multiplayer PC games like Phasmophobia, you can also join Discord on your PC.

Nintendo Switch Online also allows playing games like Mario Party and Animal Crossing with friends who only play on the Switch.

4. Save on multiple systems

Some titles allow cross-save, so you can switch systems playing a certain game at any time. For example, you can play free-to-play games like Overwatch and Wuthering Waves on multiple systems. If you want to switch from playing Wuthering Waves on PC one day to your phone the next, you can easily do so. Meanwhile, games like Disney Dreamlight Valley also allow cross-save on PC and Switch.

5. Ability to switch between controller or mouse and keyboard

It's nice to have the ability to switch between gamepads and mouse + keyboard controls. There are games you should buy on PlayStation or Switch because you can use a controller, such as shooting games like Resident Evil 4 or Fortnite. Point-and-click games in the time management and hidden object genres work better with a traditional mouse and keyboard approach.

6. Different subscription options

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On different systems, there are different subscription options. PlayStation offers various tiers of PlayStation Plus subscriptions for online gaming access, as well as a catalog of old and new PlayStation games. There are many game subscriptions available on PC, including Xbox Game Pass and Shockwave Unlimited, etc.

Finally, Nintendo Switch offers an online subscription for gaming with friends and access to classic titles from the NES and Super NES like Super Mario 3.

7. Learn how to build a PC

Although the main reason for buying a PC is to play games, many people also want to learn how to build a PC. Throughout the process of researching parts, building your PC (hoping it works), and customizing internal settings, you'll learn a lot of useful skills.

There are also ways to turn your PC into a gaming console with some upgrades.

8. Computers are not just for playing games

Besides playing games, you can also use your PC for work. Buy a webcam to join video calls for work or with friends, or upgrade your setup with another monitor, making research and writing more efficient, in addition to improving the gaming experience. .

Having multiple systems to access different games and ways to play, as well as the ability to play games with friends and customize your gaming experience on any given day, is a huge advantage. Even though your desk space is increasingly limited, having multiple systems is a real game changer.

Micah Soto

Update 23 August 2024