I completely agree!
The purpose of a game console to me, in the past, has been:
A cheaper alternative to a computer, to be able to play video games as a social activity.
Video game consoles used to launch for approximately $300 (Canadian). The X-Box 360 launched for $500, which I felt was very steep. I've seen the graphics and performance of an X-Box 360, and I don't feel that it's worth the huge price tag. I have more use for a new video card for my computer than I do for an X-Box 360.
When I saw that the PS3 was going to launch for such a disgusting price, I decided to back out of the video game market completely. I don't think I'll be buying another game system for a LONG time.
NOTE: That statement is coming from the guy who bought or was given as a gift: a NES, a SNES, a Genesis, a Virtual Boy, an N64, a PS1, a PS2, a Dreamcast, an X-Box, and a Gamecube. I've used my share of video game systems, and the new wave of consoles just seems a bit rediculous. If you want to game to that extreme, get a computer.
I'll stick with my PS2 , X-box and my Gamecube for social gatherings, thank you. They're good enough for me. If my friends and I ever want to play a newer game, we'll bring our computers and LAN game.