The PS3 seems to be a very good console. But really, Xbox 360 does all the same, plus Media Connect, whilst gathering more and more 3rd party and Japanese support everyday, meaning more and better games. Plus, it is $200 cheaper! But if you really want Blu-Ray (it will probably fail anyway), then a PS3 is a good bet. But overall, MS doesn't force you to buy anything you don't want. (ie: Blu-Ray)