Xbox one. In two years when the gaming PC you bought or built is outdated and wont support newer games a console will still be releasing new games.
Consoles are more simple as well. You don't have issues where you have to download software or update drivers like you can run in to with a PC. As a fellow "old dude" I just want stuff to work, and with as little interaction from me as possible.
As far as which console, either one will most likely have all the functionality you want. The Ps4 has slightly better hardware than the Xbox one. However multiplatform games are going to be equal on either system so the advantage is negligible.
For $349.99 with a game the Xbox one is a better value in my opinion for a casual gamer.
I just wanna point out a few pointers to you not that any of your information is wrong.
gaming computers at least last 4 years before anything needs to be updated in terms of hardware,unless you decide to go with an extremely shitty "gaming" computer , of course with any electronic something could go bad on it this is true to every electronic.
additionally you have to download updates, software on the xbox one, ps4, and computer, updates are apart of how these systems work.
there are pros and cons to both console and computer
Console:
pros:
more affordable system in the SHORT term.
ability to watch tv.movies through console
generally have a bigger screen to play
mobility in terms of able to pick it up and plug it in anywhere
sit down on couch
applications for netflix, twitch etc.
ability to surf basic web pages
ability to store music, and use as a family system
space saver, looks neat and sleek
cons:
lack of ability in terms of internet
lack of use of easy access guides
sales on console games are far and few between
cannot use keyboard or mouse
games restricted to controller types
generally have to buy DISK games, (collection can gather quite big, look junky in house)
graphics are always under par compared to computer (depending on set up)
no access to the largest game web portal to buy video games (Steam)
inability to find older games that have been converted to newer gen consoles
inability to play older games that were on other console systems
game play online can be laggy depending on your internet and wifi
frequent downloads
Computer:
Pros:
multi functional use , tv , movies, websurfing, business, social media access, easy access to game guides,the ability to use ONE system for all your internet needs or word document needs, photos,
Better storage
better graphics (if you have a better set up)
More Affordable in the LONG term
Ability to use both controller AND keyboard/mouse set up depending on game.
games do not require the use of disks,
-Steam the largest digital download for all games old and new, which includes your game library, and extremely FUCKING AMAZING sales, great games for the purchase of 5$ ,
- find older games from all past consoles
better audio
a smoother game play ONLINE due to direct plug in to internet
easier to make new friends as you have keyboard to type
easier to type and look for games
less upgrades
Cons:
unless you buy a laptop the desktop is pretty stationary in ability to "pick up and play"
cannot access games outside of your computer unless they are all on steam
gaming mic, keyboards and monitors can be costly if you feel the need to upgrade
can be trickier to use than a controller set up console.
can be more costly if you look at it that way
frequent downloads
This is just a basic list, obviously OP will find whats best suited to him and his needs.
However I personally still think the computer is the best option for him ONLY because Steam is really amazing in terms of older style games being available. I have both xbox and computer, and various handheld gaming devices.
There are games i prefer to play on xbox but the majority of my games are on my computer,
If OP wants to get into MMO's (not saying he does) he will be better suited to a computer because MMO's on console quite frankly arent there.
Additionally he will be able to find old games close to his heart or old preference style on steam for really good deals.
in terms of COST i still think while the computer is a big chunk DOWN , the consoles rack up in price once you have to buy games, little keyboard for controller, more harddrive space, headset. Games being the biggest portion of money he will have to spend.
While the computer maybe costly it allows him to do MORE than a console, significantly and it also allows for cheaper games as they are often on better sales on computers.
another big plus for him IMHO is that he can pretty much find any old game he used to play and play it again whether it was for sega, nintendo or the original xbox , new consoles generally dont have cross console games or older games unless you search i know there is Blue wizard on here who collects older games
