What you need
- A device to play on. A home console, a handheld console, or a Windows, Mac or Linux computer. Phones and tablets play games too, though this site focuses on PC and console.
- A screen. A TV for a home console, or a monitor for a PC. Handhelds have their own screen and can often connect to a TV as well.
- A way to control the game. A controller comes with most consoles. A PC can use a keyboard and mouse, a controller, or both.
- An account. Consoles and PC game stores ask you to sign in. The account holds your games, saves, friends list and settings.
- An internet connection. Most games need one for updates and downloads even if you only play alone.
PC and console: how they differ
We do not recommend one over the other. They suit different people, and plenty of players use both. This table compares the two as general categories.
| Topic | Console | PC |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | Plug in, sign in, play. Settings are the same for every owner of that console. | More choice and more to set up. Performance depends on the parts inside the computer. |
| Controls | Built around a controller. | Keyboard and mouse by default, and most games also accept a controller. |
| Games | Each console has its own library, with many games released on several platforms. | Games come from several different stores and launchers. |
| Settings | A short list, often with a quality or performance mode. | Detailed graphics and control settings, which can be tuned or left on automatic. |
| Family controls | Built into the console and its account system. | Split between the operating system and each store or launcher. |
Whichever you choose, check that a game is released on your platform before you buy it, and for PC check the minimum system requirements listed on the store page.
Day one setup, step by step
- Connect the screen and power. Use the cable that came with the device. For a TV, switch on its game mode if it has one, since it can make controls feel more responsive.
- Create or sign in to your account. Use a strong password you do not use anywhere else and turn on two-step verification. The online safety guide explains why.
- Install system updates. The device will usually prompt you. Let it finish before downloading games.
- Set up family features if a child will play. It is easier to do this before the first game goes on. See parental controls.
- Check the system accessibility menu. Text size, contrast, button remapping and screen readers often live there. See accessibility options.
- Download one game and try it. Start with something gentle. The genres page shows which styles suit beginners.
A word on storage and downloads
Modern games can be large, and updates add more over time. If your device warns that storage is full, uninstall games you have finished. Your saves are usually kept in your account or in the cloud, but check the platform's help pages before deleting anything you care about. Big downloads can take hours on slow connections, so start them before you plan to play.
Making the first session go well
- Play the tutorial, even if it feels slow. It teaches the controls in order.
- Pick the easiest difficulty. You can usually raise it later.
- Pause when you feel lost and look at the controls list in the menu.
- Keep it short. An hour is plenty while you learn, and a break helps your hands and eyes too.
Getting started questions
Do I need to pay for an online subscription?
It depends on the platform and the game. Some consoles charge for online play in many games, while free-to-play games are often exempt. Check the platform's current terms before you subscribe to anything.
Can I play without the internet?
Many single-player games work offline once installed and updated. Online multiplayer, and some games that check your account, need a connection.