Plain-English guides

Short guides to the things nobody explains. No jargon, or we explain it.

• What is a games console?A games console is a small computer built for playing games, usually connected to your TV. Here is how it works and what you need to start.
• How to use a game controllerA plain-English tour of a game controller: the sticks, buttons, triggers and shoulder buttons, and a simple way to get comfortable with them.
• Camera control explainedIn many 3D games you steer the view as well as the character. Here is what that means, why it feels hard at first, and how to get used to it.
• Game subscriptions explainedA subscription is a regular payment for extra features or a library of games. Here is what Nintendo, PlayStation and Xbox offer, with US prices.
• How to make games easier to playMost games let you change difficulty, text size, subtitles and more. Here are the settings to look for and how to play at your own pace.
• Games to play with grandchildrenGames that grandparents and grandchildren can play on the same sofa, with simple rules, short rounds and settings that even things out.
• Console vs phone vs PC for gamingCompare a games console, a phone or tablet, and a computer for a first-time player, with costs, ease of use and the kinds of games each suits.
• Buying a first console checklistA short checklist of what to check before you buy a first games console: the model, the TV, games, subscriptions, extra controllers and returns.