The argument of a computer being a pointless solution to game on is completely mute due to the fact it can do so much more than play games. The reason its more expensive than a console is because not all computers are built for gaming. Most are build for general office tasks to 3d modeling. Each having its own set of price ranged parts. When you buy a computer your essentially buying a console that can play games and also write e-mails, make graphs, get on the internet, and abunch of other stuff.
And the add in argument that it costs more to go 'next gen' with pc is mute because of the same reasons.
And if you build a PC right in the beginning it will last about 2x longer than any console as far as graphical performance.
Um... last I checked.... PS3 (I don't own a X360) can also "write e-mails, get on the interenet "and a bunch of other stuff" ... upload images and movies, play BR movies, fold@home. USB keyboard and mouse can be used for web nav., and rumors of KB&M support for games like UT2K3.
As for your graphical performance theory... I would have to disagree. PS2 games actually look better now than when it first came out. PS2 has been around how long? And its still pumping out games. Games that can be played on an origonal PS2 w/o any kinda upgrades.... PC can't say the same.
Check the title of the thread again... it says PC GAMING is too expensive, no one was talking about making 3d models. I as other PC gamers may use such programs as those... but if your a PC gamer, and the whole purpose to the PC is to get down on some games... you can't say that its cheaper than a console... I don't think its supposed to be.