Ask yourself what you are going to use the machine for, and what games you like, and that will help you decide which console to own. If graphics are your thing, all 3 consoles deliver, although XBOX has the most power, then Gamecube, then PS2 (although all have the ability to crank out some amazing visuals). Some people have complained over the "jaggy" look of some PS2 games. That reason is because of a rendering technique called anti-aliasing. Some PS2 developers have a hard time writing their own development tools to add this into their game graphics. The PS2 has many games out that use this technique, but then again, there are plenty that suffer from a lower resolution and jaggy images from memory restrictions (PS2 has 32mb RAM while GC and XBOX have more) and the lack of these techniques.
PS2 has the most games (it's PS1 backwards compatible) and largest fan base and participating group of developers. Gamecube has a long-standing tradition of family-friendly games, and you'll see plenty of Mario and Super Monkeyball type games. There are some Mature rated games out for it, so don't get turned off if you like more violent fare. If you like old school gaming with great graphics, Gamecube is a good choice. XBOX has a lot of PC developers making games for them because essentially the XBOX is a slimmed down PC with some good harware under the hood. There are more and more games coming out for XBOX, so time will tell how their software library will expand.
If you want a DVD player, both the PS2 and XBOX have ample hardware to play back movies. PS2 works better with the $20 remote kit although it's not necessary. XBOX cannot play movies without the extra remote package (I think it's $30).
Pricewise, PS2 and XBOX are both $199. GC is $149. Games seem to be a little cheaper a little sooner for XBOX, but now PS2 has it's Greatest Hits line, which is rapidly growing and making the games more affordable.
All 3 systems have their strengths and weaknesses, but in all they are all worth considering. I bought the PS2 because I wanted to play my old PS1 games, as well as watch movies. Plus there's a Linux kit out for it, but unless you're a hardcore Unix guy, it's not worth buying.
All 3 systems are broadband capable now (or will be soon in Nintendo's case).
I hope this long-winded diatribe didn't put you to sleep, and was of some use. Good luck and happy gaming.
:)
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