The entire basis of the console wars lies solely on the subjective argument that "x is better than y for z reason(s)".  The argument is generally heated, with clichéd arguments about how y only has one good game, or how the controller sucks, or the hardware causes liver cancer.  The entire argument seems a bit premature after further observation, not for the obvious reasons, but rather for the reason that I don't think it’s objectively possible to compare the consoles.

Every console brings unique aspects to the field of gaming, and generally people know why what they're buying.  The game cube is the casual gamers console, with soft games like Mario adventure/sports/party/kart/etc..., Smash Brothers, and a variety of other very quick fun party games.  The Gamecube tends to be more of a Nintendo only console, as mutli-console releases suffer from jaded development (see every Tom Clancy game released on Gamecube). 

The Xbox is the high online console, sporting a variety of games that feature online play, scoreboards, etc...  The games tend to be geared towards fans of English action games, with the leading franchise for the Xbox being the Tom Clancy line (Ghost Recon, Splinter Cell, Rainbow Six). 

The PS2 is the king of Japanese releases, featuring some amazingly unique role-playing and action games.  Games like Final Fantasy, .Hack, or Devil May Cry offer some enjoyable gaming experiences you can't find duplicated on other consoles.  In addition to its excellent line up, the PS2 can play original Playstation games, adding even more unique games to it's lineup.   

I own all three consoles, because I everything that these consoles have to offer.  I love Mario Kart/Tennis/Golf/Soccer; they're a great deal of fun for a party.  I like playing different games online for the Xbox, my favorite being Dance Dance Revolution and Crimson Skies.  I love the role playing games for the Playstation and Playstation 2, my favorites being Xenogears/Saga.

Every console offers something unique, with the intended audiences being defined by the consoles capabilities and game lineup.  Though most consoles share a variety of games, such as Madden or Grand Theft Auto, its the games oriented for a specific platform that keep people coming back for more and are used to measure the relative success or failure of said platform.