Translation guide
A video game played on a dedicated gaming console (e.g., PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, Xbox). In Japanese, the term is usually expressed as コンソールゲーム or more specifically by the platform (e.g., テレビゲーム for home consoles).
console game
The learner wants to refer to a game played on a gaming console in general.
Direct loanword from English, widely understood. Neutral and common in gaming contexts.
Recent console games have amazing graphics.
Literally 'TV game'. Historically common for home console games, but can also include handhelds connected to TV. Slightly dated but still used.
When I was a kid, I played console games all the time.
Means 'home-use game', often used in industry or formal contexts to distinguish from arcade or PC games.
The market for home console games is expanding.
The learner wants to specify the console or distinguish between home and handheld.
Refers to stationary home consoles (e.g., PlayStation, Xbox). Contrasts with portable/handheld games.
You can enjoy home console games on a big screen.
Refers to handheld/portable console games (e.g., Nintendo Switch in handheld mode, PSP).
Common way to refer to games for a specific console by name. Replace 'Switch' with any console name.
Many Switch games are fun for the whole family.
In casual conversation, Japanese speakers often just say the console name + のゲーム (e.g., プレステのゲーム for PlayStation games). This is natural and common.
I bought a PlayStation game.
PC games are パソコンゲーム or PCゲーム. Console games are distinct from mobile games (スマホゲーム) and arcade games (アーケードゲーム).
Which do you prefer, console games or PC games?
You can play handheld console games during your commute.