Questions about PC gaming?

[jacatone]

I enjoy playing PC FPS but find I'm really ignorant about games in general. What are "mods"?. Are they modifications of existing games and do you need the retail version in order to use them? Why are so many patches issued on games? Is it better to simply play games on a console rather than a PC? Any advise or reference material would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[RJ]

What are "mods"?. Are they modifications of existing games and do you need the retail version in order to use them?

Yep they are. Like Counter-Strike for example. It's a Half-Life mod. You need to have Half Life installed to install CS (except if you get the CS CD, it already has Half Life in it so you don't install it extra, but it's still a mod).

Why are so many patches issued on games?

I don't see any difference in the amount of patches issued for games than for other programs.
In general, patches are issued to solve problems.

Is it better to simply play games on a console rather than a PC?

That's a personal preference. For me, no way. PC all the way.

RJ

[tomster2300]

I prefer playing sports games on consoles rather than on pc. You can rent games for consoles ~ you have to buy or borrow them for the pc. PC games are usually better, but it's all personal preference. The great thing about consoles are they're small and easily mobile. Nothing like sitting down with a group of friends and playing a good game of football -- full of smack talk. It's so simple.

[ghost2003]

mouse is more accurate in FPS but the controler has all the buttons in one place so you can do things fater, both are good.

[Hi Ho]

I play mostly FPS games on the PC and others like Flight Simulator and such but other games like Splinter Cell and sports games I play on my Xbox. I wish my computer system sounded as good as my home theater system I have my Xbox hooked up to.

[RJ]

I wish my computer system sounded as good as my home theater system I have my Xbox hooked up to.

Then just hook up the PC to the home theater system

RJ

[Hi Ho]

My PC doesn't have a digital output. Well, it does but it is only two channels and it is too far away from the reciever. I have my Xbox hooked up to my reciever via Toslink optical cable giving me true Dolby Digital sound. It is very nice.