The first and most important thing to note when deciding on what video games to play is what console that you own. Davenport Public Library is actively making purchases for Sony's PlayStation 5 (PS5), Microsoft's Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch consoles.
Davenport Public Library owns games in the following formats as well:
• PlayStation 4 • PlayStation 3 • PlayStation 2 • Xbox 1 • Xbox 360 • Wii U • Wii • 3DS • DS
Loot boxes (also known as "loot crates" or "prize crates") are a game feature that uses real world money for a randomized chance to get in-game rewards. A similar feature is the gacha game, which originated with the Gashapon capsule machines that randomly dispense small collectibles or toys. While loot boxes are typically focused on cosmetic items like costumes or animations, gachas contain items necessary for gameplay, such as characters, equipment, or cards.
There have been legislative pushes around the globe featuring different approaches for regulation. In the United States, there has not been any formal legislation yet outside of the proposed bill put forth by Sen. Josh Hawley that would ban loot boxes in games with "users under the age of 18." The bill relies on player use and does not use ESRB guidelines as a result. However, there have been no updates on this legislation since 2019.
Until legislation is passed, patrons should be aware that these features exist in games and are designed to be enticing to players of all ages. For more information about loot boxes, visit the ESRB page on "What Parents Need to Know About Loot Boxes (and Other In-Game Purchases)."
What is backwards compatible?
Backwards compatibility refers to a gaming system’s ability to play games made for older consoles of prior generations.
What is forwards compatible?
Forwards compatible refers to a new game that will play on an old console.
What games can be played on the Xbox X|S?
Games designed for the Xbox Series X|S, of course, can be played on the new console. The Xbox X can also play games designed for the Original Xbox, Xbox One, and Xbox 360.
What games cannot be played on the Xbox X|S?
Xbox, Xbox 360, and Xbox One games excluded from working on the Xbox X|S can be found on the Microsoft Xbox support page.
What games can be played on the PlayStation 5?
Games designed for the PlayStation 5, of course, can be played on the new console. PlayStation 5 will also play most games designed for the PlayStation 4. Excluded games can be found on the PlayStation support page.
What games cannot be play on the PlayStation 5?
If you own a PlayStation 5 console, games designed for PlayStation 1, PlayStation 2 or PlayStation 3 will not work on the new console.
What if I want to play a PlayStation 5 game on my PlayStation 4?
Sorry, that is unlikely to work. For example, Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales is a new PlayStation 5 game that can be played only on a PlayStation 5 console.
What about the Nintendo Switch?
Only games specifically designed for the Nintendo Switch can be played on this console.
Getting into playing games can seem like a daunting endeavor. With so many options to choose from, picking the right game can seem like a daunting task. Below are some games that are fun and enjoyable for new gamers.
Super Mario Bros Wonder
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
MinecraftEntertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) is the non-profit, self-regulatory body that assigns ratings for video games so that gamers can make informed decisions about what games they play based on the maturity level of the content within the game. This board was formed as a way to help parents with making sure that they are making informed decisions about what their children play. Every game has the ESRB rating in the bottom right corner of the video game cover. On the back, the ESRB rating gives an explanation for the rating to further give parents the tools to decide what is right for them and their family.
E (Everyone): This rating means that this game is suitable for all audiences. There should not be any mature content in games with an E rating.
E 10+ (Everyone 10+): This rating means that this game is suitable for everyone 10 years old and older. These games may contain more cartoon, fantasy or mild violence, mild language, and/or minimal suggestive themes.
T (Teen): This rating content is generally suitable for ages 13 and up. They may contain violence, suggestive themes, crude humor, minimal blood, simulated gambling, and/or infrequent use of strong language.
M (Mature): This is the highest rating that the Davenport Public Library currently collects, with content that is generally suitable for ages 17 and up. They may contain intense violence, blood and gore, sexual content, and/or strong language.
You can visit the ESRB website for more information.