TECH + PLAY – GAMER’S STARTER GUIDE – If you’re just stepping into the world of video games, welcome! Whether you’re a casual player looking to unwind or diving in with dreams of epic quests and multiplayer showdowns, choosing your first gaming console is a big decision. But don’t worry — we’ve got your back with a breakdown of the best systems for beginners in 2025.
New to Gaming? Start Here.
The best video game console for a new gamer isn’t necessarily the one with the most power or the largest game library — it’s the one that fits your interests, lifestyle, and comfort level. Do you want something family-friendly? Are you into action-packed shooters or relaxed puzzle games? Do you want to play solo or with friends?
Tip!
Talk to your friends. They might surprise you with some great advice. Besides if you want to play online with them having a system that works with theirs is a great start!
Let’s break down the top beginner-friendly gaming systems.
🎮 Nintendo Switch / Switch OLED – The Fun and Flexible Pick
Best for: Casual gamers, families, portable play
- Why it’s great: The Switch is incredibly beginner-friendly, with simple controls, bright graphics, and an amazing lineup of games for all ages.
- Top beginner games: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
- Bonus: You can dock it to play on your TV or undock it to use as a handheld. Great for on-the-go gaming.
Pro tip: The Switch OLED model has a brighter screen and better speakers — worth the upgrade if you’re going handheld often.
🕹️ PlayStation 5 (Digital Edition) – The Immersive Experience
Best for: New gamers looking for stunning graphics, solo adventures, and cinematic experiences
- Why it’s great: The PS5 offers an incredible mix of top-tier games, intuitive UI, and the most talked-about exclusives in the industry.
- Top beginner games: Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Sackboy: A Big Adventure, Horizon Forbidden West
- Bonus: The DualSense controller gives you tactile feedback that actually makes the gameplay feel more real.
Pro tip: The Digital Edition is more affordable than the disc version, but you’ll need a strong internet connection to download games.
🟩 Xbox Series S – Affordable and All-Access Gaming
Best for: Budget-conscious beginners and subscription lovers
- Why it’s great: At a lower price point than most next-gen systems, the Series S offers full access to Xbox Game Pass — a subscription with hundreds of games you can download and try without buying them individually.
- Top beginner games: Forza Horizon 5, Minecraft, Ori and the Will of the Wisps
- Bonus: It’s compact and fully digital — perfect for smaller spaces or younger gamers.
Pro tip: Xbox Game Pass Ultimate even lets you play on your phone or tablet via the cloud — no console required in some cases!
🖥️ Honourable Mention: Steam Deck or Gaming PC
Best for: Tech-savvy new gamers who want access to indie games and PC classics
- Why it’s great: The Steam Deck brings PC gaming into a handheld format, with flexibility and tons of games.
- Top beginner games: Stardew Valley, Portal, Hades, Among Us
Heads-up: There’s a bit more setup required compared to consoles, but it offers the most flexibility long-term.
How to Choose the Right System for You
Ask yourself:
- Where will you play? (TV, couch, travel, desk)
- Who will you play with? (Solo, online, family co-op)
- What games excite you most? (Adventure, racing, puzzles, sports)
Still not sure? Visit your local electronics store or gaming retailer and try a few demo units. Ask around. Watch some game trailers online. The right system is the one that makes you excited to play.
Final Word
Getting started in gaming today is easier — and more fun — than ever. Whether you’re racing in Mario Kart, swinging through New York as Spider-Man, or relaxing in Animal Crossing, there’s a console that fits your vibe and budget.
So power up, grab a controller, and get ready — because your gaming journey starts now. 🎮
Game on!