30 March 2012 Last updated at 13:12

Games consoles: what are the main gaming contenders?

Gaming and games consoles are a huge business, making console and games producers millions every year. So who are the industry's big players?

The big three games companies are Microsoft, Sony and Nintendo.

Microsoft: Xbox 360 & Kinect

Microsoft are the guys behind the Xbox 360 and Kinect.

The Kinect for Xbox 360 was released in 2010 and was the first gadget that allowed you to play without any controllers - you just move your body around.

You can play against other gamers online using Xbox LIVE, but you have to pay a membership fee.

Sony: PlayStation, PSP, Vita

Sony make the PlayStation 3, the smaller PlayStation Portable (PSP) and the new PlayStation Vita.

PlayStation's Move allows gamers to play with wireless controllers, like the Nintendo Wii.

The PlayStation Network allows you to play online games, chat to friends and surf the web.

The handheld PlayStation Vita has a touchscreen on the front and a touchpad controller on the back. It was released in the UK in February 2012.

Rumours are now flying around the internet that the new PlayStation console, the PS4, will be called Orbis and may be released at the end of 2013.

Read more: PlayStation 4 'Orbis' rumours

Nintendo: Wii, DS, 3DS, Wii U

Nintendo are the brains who brought us the Wii, the DS, the 3DS and the upcoming Wii U.

The Wii is cheaper than the Xbox and the PlayStation, but some people don't think the graphics are as good.

Most people say that it's pretty simple to use, so it's good for gaming beginners!

The 3DS was the first handheld console to let gamers play in 3D without needing to wear special glasses.

The new version of the Wii, the Wii U, is going to be released in 2012. It will include controllers with a touchscreen and camera.