Games and gear coming soon
Brand-new consoles are right around the corner. Check out CNET's guide for the latest on next-gen hardware and games.
Xbox One
Price: $500
Availability: November 22
The outlook: Microsoft's entry into next-gen gaming comes in the form of the Xbox One, promising various integrations with live TV, fantasy sports and more, in addition to next-generation graphics and gameplay. After surviving what can only be called a PR nightmare regarding DRM policies, the Xbox One seemed dampened from the start, but since has made significant strides to right the ship.
PlayStation 4
Price: $400
Availability: November 15
The outlook: Sony's next-generation videogame console will hit stores one week before Xbox One and has concentrated on convincing the public that the PS4 will be the "gamer's console." The PS4 may have a slight edge on horsepower, but the company is banking on exclusive franchises like Killzone and indie offerings to ensure the PS4 lands in every living room in the country.
Nintendo 2DS
Price: $120
Availability: October 12
The outlook: Nintendo has redesigned the 3DS to be more affordable and kid friendly with what it's calling the 2DS. Confused? The 2DS loses 3D and a clamshell design, but carries a much more attractive price tag. Best of all, it plays any current 3DS (in 2D of course) and DS game.
Grand Theft Auto V
Price: $60
Availability: September 17 (Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3)
The outlook: Easily one of 2013's most anticipated games, Grand Theft Auto V certainly has plenty of hype surrounding its release. One of the most iconic franchises in videogames gets an update this fall, and with it gamers can expect immersion in a virtual world like never before. All this of course while controlling three main characters, each with their own abilities and personalities, something a GTA game has never offered before.
Watch Dogs
Price: $60
Availability: November 19 (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PC, Wii U)
The outlook: A brand-new franchise from Ubisoft, Watch Dogs has already made an overwhelmingly positive impression among critics and gamers alike. The title's "hacking" mechanic promises jaw-dropping power and control over a virtual Chicago. You'll have to try it out for yourself when the game hits current and next-gen consoles in November.
Batman: Arkham Origins
Price: $60
Availability: October 25 (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii U, PC)
The outlook:The Dark Knight returns in his latest adventure that takes gamers before the events of the original Arkham Asylum game. Faced with a new enemy and huge price placed upon his head, the odds have never been this stacked against Batman.