How do you decide when and which consoles to purchase?

[shams]

I'll usually have at least one console in each generation (typically the first), and also a Nintendo console (as I love the games). That aside - its based on uniqueness, and how unique the games are that come out for that console. Cost is also a definite issue - cheaper is always better. That said, I'll tend to blow money on getting a console at launch (sometimes too much) if I really want it. I may end up with a 360, apart from that its all Wii for Mii from here...