The Single Most Important Thing All Next-Gen Consoles Need Is... (Opinion)

By Vamien McKalin email: v.mckalin@mobilenapps.com | Jan 16, 2013 09:23 AM EST

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What is it that all next-generation consoles need you wonder? The answer isn't fancy graphics and super-fast computing, but what all next-generation consoles need is a screenshot tool.

Yes, you read right, a screenshot tool.

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Playing video games has always been a fun experience for everyone who enjoys it. Given how enjoyable video games are, sometimes we want to capture certain in-game moments and share them with our peers; however, due to the lack of a screenshot tool, this is not possible in many games. And, that is very frustrating.

Of course some games come pre-loaded with the ability to take screenshots, but this is a feature that should be accessible by all video games and the only way for that to happen, is if consoles come with their own screenshot tool.

The PS3 launched for a whopping $599, and for something so expensive (and what Sony claims can do everything) it sure doesn't take screenshots. The Xbox 360 has cheaper hardware but it is no exception either. Microsoft has been issuing updates and adding new features to the console on a regular basis, yet no screenshot tool.

Taking screenshots is not impossible, you can do so via your camera, but the picture quality won't be impressive since it would be taken from an LCD screen, or a huge CRT screen if you are "that guy." There's also the option of purchasing third-party hardwares, which are expensive, to take a simple screenshot of in-game moments, but it should be simple as tapping a button.

With the Xbox 720 and PS4 in the pipeline, Microsoft and Sony need to add a screenshot tool to these upcoming consoles. Alternately, how about allowing third-party applications to be created so that some smart developer could give us a screenshot tool?

Make no mistake, a next-generation console is not considered next gen unless it has a screenshot tool. And, I'm not kidding.

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