What's Windows Vista got that the others don't? For one thing, it's an ideal entertainment center for all your music, movies, videos, and photos. Plus, you've got hordes of games to choose from.

Top three things you can do:

• Record and watch TV for free

• Take entertainment with you

• Play tons of games

Record TV for Free

Digital video recorders (DVRs) are a great way to record TV, if you don't mind buying special hardware and paying a monthly fee. But with a PC running Windows Vista Home Premium or Ultimate, you don't need to. All you need is a cable service and a TV tuner card for your PC (they're generally under $100) and you can watch, pause, and record live TV. For free.

Windows Media Center—a visually stunning way to experience your home entertainment.

Getting started is straight forward—Windows Media Center walks you through the setup process, so you can be up and recording in no time.

It's not just about TV either. Windows Media Center also gives you a great way to enjoy your music, movies, and video on your PC.

Entertainment to go

On the run? Take your entertainment with you. If your PC happens to be a laptop, you can watch what you've recorded anywhere your laptop goes. And if you own a Windows Mobile phone, a Microsoft Zune, or one of dozens of compatible media players, you can copy recorded shows to your device for pocket-friendly on-the-go viewing. Basically, you've got one Windows in many places.

Take a game break

If the phrase "computer games" makes you think "Solitaire" you're right. But when you're using Windows, you'll also find kajillions of games for everyone.

For starters, you get updated 3-D versions of classic games, like Solitaire (yes, it's still in there) and Minesweeper right in the box, but now, there's a new game just for kids called Purble Place. Plus, Windows Vista Home Premium and Windows Vista Ultimate include two brand-new games, Mahjong Titans and Chess Titans in 3D. So it’s handy that Windows Vista can bring intense 3D graphics to life. And all those games are easy to find in the new Games Explorer. More options for more fun.

You can also make it the right kind of fun for each member of your family. The easy-to-use Parental Controls in Windows Vista help you to prevent your kids from playing certain games based on rating, content, or title. You can also set up a schedule for when they use the computer, and for how long.

If you're ready for some "light" competition (is there such a thing?), check out Windows Live Messenger where you can chat with an online friend while you play a game together.