So the offspring has been nagging for a console for a while,and I have finally buckled. But just before taking an Xbox to the checkout counter I paused and wondered if it might be a better long term idea to get a small dedicated PC instead.

As I see it, the key comparisons are be that it would be a higher hardware cost (no MS subsidy), an approx equal software cost for the games, but a wider range of games and a higher quality video / audio output. But is it possible to replicate completely the ease of use of a dedicated console with things like wireless controllers and other peripherals and have it All Just Work ?

I'm guessing that there are a hundred varieties of sites along the lines MyPCIsWayBetterThanYourConsoleAndHeresWhy.com - but any pointers to recommended reading ?

Thanks

Mark