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[Mudron]

I'm a life-long console gamer who's never owned a gaming PC (I've only ever owned Macs), but I'm tempted to finally make the plunge into getting a Windows gaming rig for Fallout 4.

Unfortunately, I don't know shit about building PCs, so just grabbing a bunch of parts from Newegg and bolting them together by myself is out of the question - for a while, it seemed like the Steam Machines were the answer to my prayers, but since no one seems to know if Fallout 4 will even be published for Steam OS (to say nothing of how half the reason of getting a gaming PC would be so I can finally play everything on Steam and not be tied to a niche OS), I'm back to square one.

So, what pre-built Windows gaming rigs would you guys recommend? Ideally, I'm looking for something that can run Fallout 4 on better-than-console settings and that can be easily hooked up to a TV for play with a controller (really, I'm just looking for a beefy gaming console in the shape of a PC).

Anyone have recommendations?

And for reference, here are the recommended specs for Fallout 4:

Windows 7/8/10 (64-bit OS required)
Intel Core i7 4790 3.6 GHz/AMD FX-9590 4.7 GHz or equivalent
8 GB RAM
30 GB free HDD space
NVIDIA GTX 780 3GB/AMD Radeon R9 290X 4GB or equivalent

 

[Visualante2]

If your barometer is "better-than-console settings" shouldn't you be looking at the minimum spec more than the recommended spec? You can still get a Windows based Steam machine, but I have no idea if it's good value.

 

[dugdug]

If you were looking at Steam Machines but were put off by Steam OS, just get the Alienware Alpha. It's the exact same thing, just with a slower hard drive, and Windows instead of Steam OS. I love mine, and, with most games I've played on it, it either matches, or beats PS4/XB1 performance.

http://www.alienware.com/landings/alpha/

 

[Lunar15]

Building PC's is really, really easy and requires maybe watching one or two videos about it on youtube. I knew nothing and have no technical aptitude but put mine together in about two hours (which is a pretty long time)

But if you're uninterested in going through the rigamarole, I'm pretty sure a simple search of Alienware/ibuypower should get something you're interested in. I've heard the Alpha is fine.

 

[Mudron]

If your barometer is "better-than-console settings" shouldn't you be looking at the minimum spec more than the recommended spec?

If I'm gonna blow the extra cash to get a pre-built machine, I'd rather get something that makes Fallout 4 look extra pretty *and* is a future-proofed a little right out of the starting gate.

 

[BiggNife]

If you were looking at Steam Machines but were put off by Steam OS, just get the Alienware Alpha. It's the exact same thing, just with a slower hard drive, and Windows instead of Steam OS. I love mine, and, with most games I've played on it, it either matches, or beats PS4/XB1 performance.

http://www.alienware.com/landings/alpha/

Yeah, if you're going the "PC console" route, get an Alpha. You're unnecessarily limiting yourself by getting a Steam Machine that only runs SteamOS.

 

[Lunar15]

One question though: Why not just play it on console? Not interested in the controls? The game is pretty much designed around consoles and I doubt PC is going to squeeze much out of it.

 

[Mudron]

Building PC's is really, really easy and requires maybe watching one or two videos about it on youtube. I knew nothing and have no technical aptitude but put mine together in about two hours (which is a pretty long time)

This is what some folks keep telling me - I'm tempted to try (just because I'm an idiot), but then half of those guys spend half their time bitching about how they accidentally fucked up their latest build, which...does not exactly inspire confidence.

If folks have Newegg recipes for a Fallout 4-friendly machine, though, feel free to post 'em!

 

[Mobius and pet octopus]

Yeah, if you're going the "PC console" route, get an Alpha. You're unnecessarily limiting yourself by getting a Steam Machine that only runs SteamOS.

I'm pretty sure you can run whatever OS you want on a steam machine.

 

[Mudron]

One question though: Why not just play it on console? Not interested in the controls?

Hell, I probably WILL play it on consoles (I've got Pip Boy Editions of the PS4, Xbox and PC versions reserved in case I don't get a PC rig together before the 10th), but I've been hankering to finally take the plunge into PC gaming anyway so (A) I don't have to worry about waiting for the Mac version of every big game to come out before I can play it, and (B) so I can finally just have a dedicated rig for playing old retro games.

 

[Tovarisc]

If you were looking at Steam Machines but were put off by Steam OS, just get the Alienware Alpha. It's the exact same thing, just with a slower hard drive, and Windows instead of Steam OS. I love mine, and, with most games I've played on it, it either matches, or beats PS4/XB1 performance.

http://www.alienware.com/landings/alpha/

Can you get one with higher VRAM? I can see that 2GB of VRAM coming an issue.

 

[foxtrot3d]

This is what some folks keep telling me - I'm tempted to try (just because I'm an idiot), but then half of those guys spend half their time bitching about how they accidentally fucked up their latest build, which...does not exactly inspire confidence.

If folks have Newegg recipes for a Fallout 4-friendly machine, though, feel free to post 'em!

You know most places you can buy PC parts off of will simply build the PC for you at an added extra cost.

 

[Mudron]

I'm pretty sure you can run whatever OS you want on a steam machine.

Part of me is tempted to wait until the Steam Machines hit to see how easily the Steam OS can be swapped for Windows 10.

Me am baby.

 

[Felix Lighter]

This is what some folks keep telling me - I'm tempted to try (just because I'm an idiot), but then half of those guys spend half their time bitching about how they accidentally fucked up their latest build, which...does not exactly inspire confidence.

If folks have Newegg recipes for a Fallout 4-friendly machine, though, feel free to post 'em!

You're best responses will come from the "I need a new PC thread":

http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1094682&highlight=i+need+a+new+pc

Read the OP and ask questions there. It is filled with posters that are extremely current on what is available and what is the best value for a given budget. Still one of the best threads on NeoGaf.

 

[OldGangWarily]

Have you tried looking at places like iBuyPower and the like? I personally prefer building it yourself but if you feel uncomfortable doing so, they're probably the next best bet

 

[BiggNife]

I'm pretty sure you can run whatever OS you want on a steam machine.

I'm sure you can set up a partition and do a dual-boot and all that but when you can just get an Alpha with Windows out of the box I'm not sure why you would want to go through all that hassle.

 

[Mudron]

Can you get one with higher VRAM? I can see that 2GB of VRAM coming an issue.

This is the kind of advice I'm looking for.

I was looking at the Alpha, but had no idea how the specs compare to any newer off-the-shelf machines or how future-proof it may be.

 

[fluffydelusions]

Not sure you want to go the used route but you can always check your local craigslist or ebay for gaming rigs already built?

 

[dugdug]

Can you get one with higher VRAM? I can see that 2GB of VRAM coming an issue.

The video card is the only thing you can't change, unfortunately. It's custom made for the machine.

However, if OP, like myself, was just looking for a PC that can run console-like performance at PC prices, I can't see this being a big problem until next-gen machines hit.

It's definitely not a PC you'd want to buy if you want this to be the last PC you'll ever buy. I figure that, once this machine can't run new games, it'll be time to buy a new one, anyway.

 

[Mudron]

You're best responses will come from the "I need a new PC thread":

http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1094682&highlight=i+need+a+new+pc

Read the OP and ask questions there. It is filled with posters that are extremely current on what is available and what is the best value for a given budget. Still one of the best threads on NeoGaf.

Yeah, I've posted there before, but either my questions got lost in the shuffle or everyone just said "build a PC, it's not that hard", which....wasn't exactly helpful.

Also, I'm wondering if anyone else may be in the same boat as me. With consoles in general winding down, there's GOTTA be more people like me - lifelong console gamers looking to make a relatively easy/painless jump to PC gaming - right?

 

[PBY]

Great thread. Im considering an alpha, but I need to know the following:

I just want to use it as a console, w/ minor media functionality (Ie downloading movies, using VLC), etc. It would be plugged in via HDMI to my receiver - would this be an issue?

Is there a way to use this w/o really useing a keyboard?

How does the lowest spec alpha compare to a ps4?


Thanks

 

[OraleeWey]

This is what some folks keep telling me - I'm tempted to try (just because I'm an idiot), but then half of those guys spend half their time bitching about how they accidentally fucked up their latest build, which...does not exactly inspire confidence.

If folks have Newegg recipes for a Fallout 4-friendly machine, though, feel free to post 'em!

I was just like Lunar15. I knew next to nothing. I built my PC out of nowhere earlier this year. If you really want to get into PC I would highly recommend putting one together yourself. There is a PC recommendation thread. All you do is list a budget and things you want out of your PC and the thread community will help you out. After you've built it, you will continue to grow your knowledge on PC "stuff". It is really simple. This is the thread if you want to go this route.

http://m.neogaf.com/showthread.php?t=1094682

Generally speaking, pre built PC's are underpowered and overpriced.

 

[ISee]

You know most places you can buy PC parts off of will simply build the PC for you at an added extra cost.

/this.
Do not buy steam machines or pre build PCs in large electronic stores. For the most part they are either way overpriced or they saved some money on some essential parts.

Just go to your local PC Store, tell them what kind of CPU and GPU combo you want and go from there.

 

[Mudron]

Great thread. Im considering an alpha, but I need to know the following:

I just want to use it as a console, w/ minor media functionality (Ie downloading movies, using VLC), etc. It would be plugged in via HDMI to my receiver - would this be an issue?

Is there a way to use this w/o really useing a keyboard?

How does the lowest spec alpha compare to a ps4?


Thanks

ONE OF US, ONE OF US

 

[PBY]

/this.
Do not buy steam machines or pre build PCs in large electronic stores. For the most part they are either way overpriced or they saved some money on some essential parts.

Just go to your local PC Store, tell them what kind of CPU and GPU combo you want and go from there.

Yeah - but how about for someone who doesn't want that. I don't know anything about CPUs or GPUs, nor do I care to learn. I want a box that runs similar to a ps4 and works like a console that has media functionality.

Thats it. I don't want to learn about drivers or performance or any other shit like that.

 

[Spazznid]

Console versions will support mods.

I don't see the reason for PC version other than performance.

But you do you. You can probably look on /r/PCMasterRace or something for some builds equaling that of consoles, and go from there. If you want small form factor, go for a htpc.

Cheapest, IMO is to build your own PC and use it as a Steam Machine.

 

[digitalrelic]

If I'm gonna blow the extra cash to get a pre-built machine, I'd rather get something that makes Fallout 4 look extra pretty *and* is a future-proofed a little right out of the starting gate.

... then why are you contemplating Steam Machines?

Honestly, use the 2015 PC Gaming Build thread here on GAF, order the parts you want, and put a few hours aside to put them all together when they arrive. Seriously, it's like legos. You just plug everything in where they fit. Just be patient, use Youtube and GAF as a resource, and it's easy as pie.

 

[Tovarisc]

The video card is the only thing you can't change, unfortunately. It's custom made for the machine.

However, if OP, like myself, was just looking for a PC that can run console-like performance at PC prices, I can't see this being a big problem until next-gen machines hit.

It's definitely not a PC you'd want to buy if you want this to be the last PC you'll ever buy. I figure that, once this machine can't run new games, it'll be time to buy a new one, anyway.

My old rig had GPU with 2GB of VRAM and it was becoming limit to hit. Really wanted 4+ GB VRAM towards end of lifespan of that rig. Then I build new rig last August.

 

[RealityCheque]

OP I'd never built a PC before this year either. I can assure you its a piece of piss and you'll get a way more powerful setup while still spending the same or less than you would for a steam machine.

It's fun too and the GAF PC thread is very helpful if you are unsure of anything as you go through the steps.

 

[PBY]

... then why are you contemplating Steam Machines?

Honestly, use the 2015 PC Gaming Build thread here on GAF, order the parts you want, and put a few hours aside to put them all together when they arrive. Seriously, it's like legos. You just plug everything in where they fit. Just be patient, use Youtube and GAF as a resource, and it's easy as pie.

Some people don't want to do this. I'm in that camp.

 

[dugdug]

I just want to use it as a console, w/ minor media functionality (Ie downloading movies, using VLC), etc. It would be plugged in via HDMI to my receiver - would this be an issue?

Is there a way to use this w/o really useing a keyboard?

How does the lowest spec alpha compare to a ps4?


Thanks

1) I have mine plugged directly into my TV via HDMI. I imagine it would work the same.

2) Yep. When you turn the Alpha on, it boots directly to this console-like interface.

From here, you can boot up Steam, Origin, Battlenet, etc... Steam will boot into Big Picture Mode, but, other programs like Origin will require a mouse/kb.

You can also exit to desktop/windows, which, obviously would require m/kb, as, in that mode, it's just a regular-ass PC. But, if you only intend to use it for games, you should barely ever need to use that option.

3) I can't answer, as I have the highest spec. But, you can check https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpDhGs-OGYvt64IgZfU7u21LZwbkt0MTm

It's a playlist from Alienware showing performance for a bunch of games. They use the base model for the majority of them. The one that convinced me to buy it was Alien: Isolation. You can get 60FPS/1080P on the base model, whereas, on PS4 it's locked at 30FPS.

 

[GRIMREEFZ]

i would stay away from pre build - in my state there is a pc part shop called Microcenter - they build rig for you there, teach u, repair, and have all the parts for any rig. I recommend u try to find a place like that locally. again stay away from steam machines and pre built.

 

[Tovarisc]

My 2 cents;

• Decent LGA1150 mobo, don't get cheap one yet no need for premium [I would pick one in range of 100 to 150€]
• i5 4690K 3,5 GHz LGA1150 or i5 4570 3.2 GHz LGA1150
• Some okay priced aftermarket cooler for CPU, default Intel one sucks ass
• 8GB of DDR3, 2x4GB kit. Allows you to upgrade into 16GB with another 2x4GB when needed
• R9 390 or GTX970, I would pick R9 390 for more VRAM and better 1440p performance + not surprised if better 1080p performance year from now
• Quality PSU, e.g. EVGA PSU's are super solid
• Good case, I always prefer Fractal Design stuff like R5 or S -series.

edit: a lots of stores offer services like building PC for you, and even installing mandatory software like Windows

edit2: this isn't super budget build, then I have no idea what kind money you are looking at

 

[PBY]

1) I have mine plugged directly into my TV via HDMI. I imagine it would work the same.

2) Yep. When you turn the Alpha on, it boots directly to this console-like interface.

From here, you can boot up Steam, Origin, Battlenet, etc... Steam will boot into Big Picture Mode, but, other programs like Origin will require a mouse/kb.

You can also exit to desktop/windows, which, obviously would require m/kb, as, in that mode, it's just a regular-ass PC. But, if you only intend to use it for games, you should barely ever need to use that option.

3) I can't answer, as I have the highest spec. But, you can check https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpDhGs-OGYvt64IgZfU7u21LZwbkt0MTm

It's a playlist from Alienware showing performance for a bunch of games. They use the base model for the majority of them. The one that convinced me to buy it was Alien: Isolation. You can get 60FPS/1080P on the base model, whereas, on PS4 it's locked at 30FPS.

This is really helpful, thanks.

I think I'm going to go with the middle-tier alpha.

 

[Mudron]

Some people don't want to do this. I'm in that camp.

Again, yeah, some people aren't just technically-minded that way, don't have knowledge or self-confidence to know which parts to seek out + how to bash them together, or have been scared off by doing so by hearing their PC-building friends (who are often the same friends who suggest they build a gaming rig in the first place) complain about the problems they've had upgrading and/or putting their machine together.

 

[samn]

Go to a local shop and have them build you a PC according to a spec you have chosen, and avoid the big retailers. If you're really uncomfortable with doing it yourself. I would still recommend a self build. It's really easy to put the parts together, the hardest part is applying thermal paste and even then you can get decent results by using the Intel stock fan which has the paste pre-applied.

I'm not convinced you really need an i7, I don't know why that's a recommended spec. Any i5 from the past couple years should be golden.

 

[Sevenfold]

You can get installation insurance for 20 or so quid so if you're scared about breaking stuff that's a good idea. If you're willing to plod and do some reading then self building is surprisingly simple. Don't pay attention to folks crying over broken multiGPU/water setups. Your single GPU, one or two HDDs/SSDs and air cooled* CPU build is much simpler. Off the back of the Twitch $2500 first time build video I had a look on Youtube to see if there are decent build videos and found everything from dad builds, builds from old bits all the way to 4 way SLI fully watercooled monster builds. Some really excellent videos.
The only thing I can put the reluctance down to is fear. Partly from internet FUD and partly because it may well be that you've never before paid several hundred pounds for something the size of a video cassette that you can kill simply by touching!
I urge you to try it. Do your homework. Take your time. One benefit of joining the club is pwning on something you built and when your build is a success, you'll really buzz off it.

*Granted, closed loop and thermal pads have made CPU watercooling trivial with tangible benefits.

 

[MegaMelon]

Console versions will support mods.

I don't see the reason for PC version other than performance.

I think you're overstating how good console mod support will be for consoles. It's much more likely to be 'mods lite' than full blown mod support.

 

[Sevenfold]

I think you're overstating how good console mod support will be for consoles. It's much more likely to be 'mods lite' than full blown mod support.

1% of mods on console.

 

[Mudron]

I think you're overstating how good console mod support will be for consoles. It's much more likely to be 'mods lite' than full blown mod support.

This is one of the things I'm wondering, just how robust the mod support for the Xbox One version of Fallout will be. Though I can't imagine the console mods will be as game-breakingly shit-ass bonkers as what everybody did with Skyrim (and what will probably happen to Fallout).

 

[Krauser Kat]

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboBundleDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.2535097

with either a 290 or 960 and up.

you can save some money by pick part individually or going to a microcenter (crazy cheap cpu mobo prices)

 

[adamantypants]

Again, yeah, some people aren't just technically-minded that way, don't have knowledge or self-confidence to know which parts to seek out + how to bash them together, or have been scared off by doing so by hearing their PC-building friends (who are often the same friends who suggest they build a gaming rig in the first place) complain about the problems they've had upgrading and/or putting their machine together.

There's always going to be something that might be a little issue, not gonna lie. Whether it's hardware not cooperating, or drivers not working properly, or whatever. I'm still gonna recommend building your own because of the money you save AND more crucially, you're actually aware of what to do in the event that something eventually goes haywire. Just be mentally prepared to set aside maybe an extra hour of troubleshooting in addition to the actual build.

I've built 3 PCs and rebuilt my main rig as many times just this past year. IMO it's basically legos for adults.

 

[joshbob1985]

Some people don't want to do this. I'm in that camp.

I am also in this camp. I got a new PC last year off a site that puts together the bits you want. I don't mind paying a bit more for the peace of mind it gives me. If anything went wrong with a PC I built myself I would not be sure if it was my fault or not, and I prefer to have a company to point the finger of blame at. I managed to get some nasty virus on my PC and although it was entirely my own fault I was able to ring the site I got it from and they helped me clean it up with easy, idiot proof, steps. Had I put it together myself I would have been trawling the internet for solutions, never sure on the expertise of the person I was dealing with.

 

[Anno]

The Alpha is definitely a good starting point for a pre-built.

I'm curious though, are there any PC shops around you that could help with the build? Many that I've found will put it together in an afternoon and charge maybe $50 max with some kind of guarantee. If there are you can stretch your budget quite a bit more.

 

[PBY]

The Alpha is definitely a good starting point for a pre-built.

I'm curious though, are there any PC shops around you that could help with the build? Many that I've found will put it together in an afternoon and charge maybe $50 max with some kind of guarantee. If there are you can stretch your budget quite a bit more.

This kinda intrigues me - is there anyway if you went with an option like this, to get a set up that looks like the alpha? Ie a horizontal box meant to go under the TV? Hate the tower look. Also - if I went this way, could I do like a big-picture setup launch screen the way the alpha does?

BASICALLY - asking if there's a way to make a cheap alpha lol

 

[Anno]

This kinda intrigues me - is there anyway if you went with an option like this, to get a set up that looks like the alpha? Ie a horizontal box meant to go under the TV? Hate the tower look. Also - if I went this way, could I do like a big-picture setup launch screen the way the alpha does?

BASICALLY - asking if there's a way to make a cheap alpha lol

I'm not up to date on case offerings, but I imagine there's one that looks a bit more sleek and may be designed for TV center use. Might want to check the PC build thread, I'm sure they'll know much more.

And yes there is a way to boot into BPM, though I don't really remember it being very elegant. Maybe the recent updates have fixed that.

 

[DMTripper]

I got a PC built for me.

I used the PC thread to get ideas and then visited a local shop to get it built. Yeah I paid more than you would but time is money and I've got a 2yr guarantee.

Plus being local I've supported a local business and if anything goes wrong I'll drive over and get it sorted.

Edit. I got the cooler Master elite 130 case. It's a great case for sitting under the TV and is hooked up via hdmi.

 

[PBY]

I'm not up to date on case offerings, but I imagine there's one that looks a bit more sleek and may be designed for TV center use. Might want to check the PC build thread, I'm sure they'll know much more.

And yes there is a way to boot into BPM, though I don't really remember it being very elegant. Maybe the recent updates have fixed that.

Thanks. I will say one thing - for as much as I don't like the ins/outs of PC stuff, the community is always very helpful.

 

[Cheeseman Battitude]

I've got an Alpha and it's great. Proper high-end stuff is a bit of a struggle for 60fps, like GTA V, Project CARS etc, but anything last gen/early this gen will run fine. The latest game I tried on it was Elder Scrolls Online and it's 50 - 60fps on max settings. It would be a very good place to start because the release of the Steam machines is just around the corner.

Don't fear building your own PC though. Despite recent attempts to demonstrate how complicated it is by certain Twitch streamers, if you watch plenty of tutorials on Youtube and read articles you will be fine. Everything is keyed so you can't put anything in the wrong way. Intel CPUs are a bit of a pain to install but again, follow the instructions and it will work.

 

[Anno]

Thanks. I will say one thing - for as much as I don't like the ins/outs of PC stuff, the community is always very helpful.

GAFs PC community is generally the most helpful and friendly group of folks I've ran into on major message boards, especially when it comes to building, tinkering with or fixing PC issues. Just don't stray too far off into the rest of the Internet lol.