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GAF, have decided to become a PC gamer, games/things I need to know?

T

TacticalFox88

Banned
Well I'm crossing over to the darkside. I have 4k now to spend. And I've decided to become a PC gamer. Not exclusively, but yeah I want to play every game no matter what platform it comes out on. So yeah, I need help choosing the type of PC and starting games I need. So far only two games are on my mind: Crysis and Company of Heroes. I have 4k to spend and want to spend it wisely, and where I can get my money's worth.
 
TacticalFox88 said:
Well I'm crossing over to the darkside. I have 4k now to spend. And I've decided to become a PC gamer. Not exclusively, but yeah I want to play every game no matter what platform it comes out on. So yeah, I need help choosing the type of PC and starting games I need. So far only two games are on my mind: Crysis and Company of Heroes. I have 4k to spend and want to spend it wisely, and where I can get my money's worth.
Click to expand...

You should get the Valve Complete Pack. It's currently $74.99 and includes the following:

Counter-Strike, Team Fortress Classic, Day of Defeat, Deathmatch Classic, Half-Life: Opposing Force, Ricochet, Half-Life, Counter-Strike: Condition Zero, Half-Life: Blue Shift, Half-Life 2, Counter-Strike: Source, Half-Life: Source, Day of Defeat: Source, Half-Life 2: Deathmatch, Half-Life 2: Lost Coast, Half-Life Deathmatch: Source, Half-Life 2: Episode One, Portal, Half-Life 2: Episode Two, Team Fortress 2, Left 4 Dead, Left 4 Dead 2
Click to expand...

Also, do this:

recklessmind said:
build your own rig...
Click to expand...

or if you are unsure about doing that then you can at least buy the parts and then have a local computer shop put it together.
 
I will be one of the few in this thread to suggest buy a pre-built one. If you want to build your own computer that's great though. I went with pre-built and it's been awesome.

Hurry up and buy the games you want on steam before the sale is over!!
 
Get a PC with a mainstream CPU and high end graphics, but not the highest (for example, never buy Radeon 5870 or the absolute top of the line, they're never worth it if you consider money/performance index). Upgrade when you feel the need. Don't go SLI/CF unless you have a lot of money to spend. Learn to overclock, as it makes many CPUs much more powerful than on stock.
 
Don't go overboard. You can build an amazingly powerful computer for less than $1,000. Save the rest for games (and the rest of your life).
 
I have 3 pieces of advice for you.

Do not skimp on a good headset. You will want voice chat and you will want a headset that won't hurt your head after 15 minutes.

Save World of Warcraft until you are bored of all of your other PC games.

And play Left 4 Dead 2.
 
If you decide to build your own, watch out for noise. A lot of the enthusiast parts are designed for the speed at all costs mentality, other factors be damned, and are very loud. Either read the parts reviews for noise or buy a heavy duty case to muffle it.
 
Alright Steam purchase just confirmed :D . Now I need a new computer. Built or Pre-built? Cost isn't a problem just want to get maximum performance.
 
Take 2.5k of that money and don't waste it. Spend 1k on the PC+360 Wired Controller

Next only buy games on steam's weekly sales. Now is a good time to start.
Max Payne I/II for 3.75$, Civilization IV Complete 13.60$. Just wait out each day and buy

GoG.com
Freespace 2

Retail wise
-Buy a copy of Orange Box. Should be able to get it for cheaper than what it is on steam. Make sure it is new so you can use the steam registration

This is where I would start
 
Wrekt said:
Do not skimp on a good headset. You will want voice chat and you will want a headset that won't hurt your head after 15 minutes.
Click to expand...

Do you have any suggestions? I'd prefer a wireless as I'd be using it on my couch and will probably be about 7-10 feet away from my PC. I know USB extenders are an option but I'd rather not have a long ass cord going across the room. But if you can suggest even a good wired one, I'm just looking for a nice one for voice chat mainly.
 
You can get more for your money if you build your own.

Pre-built's generally cost (significantly) more but can be less of a headache...

*shrugs*

Your call.
 
TacticalFox88 said:
Alright Steam purchase just confirmed :D . Now I need a new computer. Built or Pre-built? Cost isn't a problem just want to get maximum performance.
Click to expand...

Max Payne Bundle, it's $3.49 (USD). If you haven't played it yet, go go go!

http://store.steampowered.com/sub/603/

Fallout 3: GOTY for PC is pretty good if you like the increase in resolution/textures + mods.

http://store.steampowered.com/app/22370/

I'm not sure if Fallout 3 went on a daily deal though.

THQ Complete Pack is a must buy!

http://store.steampowered.com/sub/2539/

It was already a daily deal, so I doubt we will see any sort of mega sale on that again until next year.
 
I think that it's worth splurging on a good keyboard and mouse. These are the only parts of the computer that you'll actually be touching day in and day out, so you don't want to skimp out and get something that doesn't feel great.

Also, I'd go for separate headphones and mic; I think that you can get better quality this way that if you get an all in one deal.

Also, definitely build you own; it will make any fixes or upgrades down the line easier.
 
You don't need to spend $4k, that's for sure!

Build a good rig for <$1000. You can save some of that excess cash for a video card or other upgrade somewhere down the road.

Depending on your set-up, spend a little on a good pair of headphones, or a sound system (probably a 2.1 unless you have the space for a 5.1).

Good monitors are cheap these days, shouldn't be difficult to find one that fits your needs.

Don't forget a good mouse! Something from the Razor or Logitech gaming lines. Preferably wired.

Some new-ish bread and butter games to get rolling with:

-Company of Heroes
-Civ 4 (pick up the complete pack on Steam today for $13!)
-Orange Box
-Crysis
-Dragon Age

Fill out the rest of your gaming catalog as per your tastes (the Steam Holiday Sale will help), but the above are all fantastic games, for different reasons.

Good luck and enjoy yourself!!!
 
At this time any graphic card will run console ports and original PC titles fine Dont go too crazy with that. Invest on a decent motherboard/cpu/powerunit/box since those bits are harder to upgrade or just last longer.
ATI cards are now good

PC games are more like hobbies and a less like thrills. Give them time.
Steam is your friend. You get the convienency of console gaming with the freedom of PC gaming.
Most console ports and even PC originals work natively with 360 controller.

start reading http://www.rockpapershotgun.com/
 
If you have the ability to built you own, definitely go that route. Check out newegg.com and look for their combo deals on parts. I recently purchased this combo that came with an Intel Core i5 processor, mobo, 4GB RAM, 1.5TB HDD, case/power supply and added a Radeon HD 5850 and retail copy of Windows 7 for about a total of $1100. Add a wired or wireless 360 controller and you're pretty much set.

You could go larger by going with complete top of the line equipment, but I didn't feel like anything I'd be playing would benefit from the added power. Just some suggestions.
 
Boonoo said:
I think that it's worth splurging on a good keyboard and mouse. These are the only parts of the computer that you'll actually be touching day in and day out, so you don't want to skimp out and get something that doesn't feel great.

Also, I'd go for separate headphones and mic; I think that you can get better quality this way that if you get an all in one deal.

Also, definitely build you own; it will make any fixes or upgrades down the line easier.
Click to expand...
A good keyboard is one that's not absolutely terrible, though if you want a command center you could always get one...
For a mouse, get the Logitech MX518, it's by far the best mouse out there if you like the shape. It nearly never fails and you won't be able to blame your mistakes on it.

For headset or headphones/mic, I'd say either the Sennheiser PC350's or Sennheiser HD595's and a Zalman mic if you prefer that.

ALSO GET THE STEELPAD QUICK HEAVY MOUSEPAD :lol
 
KilgoreTrout said:
Steam is the king.

Starcraft, and Diablo II.

Everything made by Valve.

Crysis.
Click to expand...

I think you should never forget Warcraft 3, with DotA it's absolutely one of the staples of modern PC gaming.
 
If you don't want to build it yourself, find yourself a PC shop to build it for you.

If you're going top of the line, then you're probably looking at a Core i7 920 with a really good air cooler, 6GB of triple channel RAM, and an ATi 5870. No point in getting higher than an i7 920 as you're going to be overclocking it.
 
TacticalFox88 said:
Well I'm crossing over to the darkside. I have 4k now to spend. And I've decided to become a PC gamer.
Click to expand...
The following is in no way serious: :lol
  • $4K is a shitload of money to spend. Edit: ZOMG, hopefully this is $4K Canadian or Australian
  • Even though you'll have a FOUR THOUSAND DOLLAR computer, be sure to make reference to those terribly expensive console machines.
  • Use the term "consolites" as frequently as possible.
  • Deny that consoles games sell millions more copies than PC games.
  • If you're called on this, allude to "the masses" and how you can't account for everyone's taste, or lack of.
  • Be this:
    2i89lvm.jpg

    Or don't.
  • Lastly, wow, that's gonna be a sweet-ass machine. I'm jealous. Enjoy! :D
 
Built it yourself. It's not that bad. Most of the stuff is plug and play these days and works well out of the box.

If you enjoy every software under the sun, setup 2 OS' That way you have a clean OS just for your gaming needs and another OS for all your clutter and porn. This way you're less likely to run into random crashes/slowdowns/conflicts that can sour ones PC gaming experience.

Learn how to update drivers in a clean manner.

Get a nice screen. Bigger is better. If you can swing a Dell 3008WFP go for it.

Don't be a shitbag who pirates games.

Don't turn into a "lol consoles!" douchebag.
 
Ultimo hombre said:
Get a nice screen. Bigger is better. If you can swing a Dell 3008WFP go for it.

Don't be a shitbag who pirates games.
Click to expand...
Solid points. Don't laugh, but does nobody do multiple screen displays anymore?? I guess with monitors as big as they are now, why would you...
 
I just priced out a computer at newegg and at a prebuilt place and the difference is about $400. So yeah that's a good chunk of change. Basically paying for them to build it and make sure it works and getting a 4 year warranty. By the time that 4 years is up though the computer will be trash anyways :lol. Computers don't age well.
 
TheExodu5 said:
If you don't want to build it yourself, find yourself a PC shop to build it for you.
Click to expand...

nah, if you're really lost, find someone who knows what they're doing to hand hold you through it. there's no better crash course in learning the fundamentals of pc hardware than click-clacking your own rig together. between the ease of this process, windows 7 and steam, any fud that the average (media saturated) gamer might associate with pc gaming will quickly dissipate.

now if you could just get the majority of the gaming population to follow suit, we'd be in a fine old place.
 
TacticalFox88 said:
Well I'm crossing over to the darkside. I have 4k now to spend. And I've decided to become a PC gamer. Not exclusively, but yeah I want to play every game no matter what platform it comes out on. So yeah, I need help choosing the type of PC and starting games I need. So far only two games are on my mind: Crysis and Company of Heroes. I have 4k to spend and want to spend it wisely, and where I can get my money's worth.
Click to expand...

Don't spend $4k on the actual PC. $1K or thereabouts in enough, after that point you're getting seriously dimished returns for your dollar, absolutely do not spend more than $2k.

Go take advantage of the Steam holiday sale right now even though you don't have the actual rig yet, go get these packs to start you off:

http://store.steampowered.com/sub/2546/
http://store.steampowered.com/sub/2539/
http://store.steampowered.com/sub/2687/
http://store.steampowered.com/sub/440/


Annihilator said:
I will be one of the few in this thread to suggest buy a pre-built one. If you want to build your own computer that's great though. I went with pre-built and it's been awesome.
Click to expand...

Do not take this advice. If you absolutely will not build the PC yourself (its much easier than you realise) then spec. a custom build over at NCIX and pay the $50 assembly fee. When you're spending in the $800+ bracket, you absolutely must go with a custom build, you'll be utterly raped of your cash otherwise.
 
Wrekt said:
I have 3 pieces of advice for you.

Do not skimp on a good headset. You will want voice chat and you will want a headset that won't hurt your head after 15 minutes.

.
Click to expand...

This advice need a caveat, do not buy a "headset" per sé, buy some audiophile grade headphones (Sennheiser HD555s on the low end) and a clip on Zalman mic. Most headsets are universally trash when it comes to audio quality, especially the "surround" versions. If you want surround sound from your headphones then get a sound card that'll matrix it over your stereo set, like an X-FI or ASUS.
 
I got a pre-built for my current machine because I had no machine to fall back on and I wanted something extravagant. I knew I would be paying a premium, but wanted to get up and running. My next machine I will definitely build by hand and look forward to it whenever my Blackbird up and dies. Its significantly cheaper and I have done reams of research into it. That said, it goes to your specific needs and desires right now. I got a pre-built box, but chose one that is high quality and upgrades nicely. Not just a cookie cutter but a well-made system. If you want to save money, build it yourself. If you want convenience, accept that you will be paying a premium and shell out good money for a solid system.

As for accessories,

Monitor - I'd recommend a 21"-22" inch monitor as the 24" is a bit big for me, but bear in mind that most HDTVs can be used as high quality computer monitors. Coupled with that a 720p 32" TV is about the same price as a 22" monitor, you have some choices. What I seriously recommend is that if you connect is DVI -> HDMI (as opposed to HDMI -> HDMI) get a cable that does not use an adapter to make the connection (i.e., DVI head on one end, HDMI head on the other). I had one with an adapter and it caused some distortion in the image that I didn't pick up for a while.

Speakers - There are good 5.1 headphones with headsets built in specifically for gaming use. These are the ones I use in particular:

17302.1.0.png

G35 Surround Sound Headset

Been very happy. Good voice, excellent sound, and very comfortable (if a bit pricey). If you get a good headset, you only need some passable speakers.

Mouse - Razer Lachesis Best mouse I've ever owned.

Keyboard - I'd recommend anything backlit as it makes a ton of difference when playing at night.
 
JoeBoy101 said:
17302.1.0.png

G35 Surround Sound Headset
.
Click to expand...

Listen to this advice at your peril, its by far the worst recommendation in this thread. Stay far, far away. There's 9 speakers in them phones, by necessity each one of them has to be absolute trash, and since they're so close together the separation will be shit. Don't say I didn't warn you.

I'd recommend a Logitech MX518 for the mouse (unless you want to go wireless), proven in tests to offer better tracking than any of the laser alternatives at half their price.


Also, read this:

http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=366413
 
crimsonheadGCN said:
You should get the Valve Complete Pack. It's currently $74.99 and includes the following:



Also, do this:



or if you are unsure about doing that then you can at least buy the parts and then have a local computer shop put it together.
Click to expand...
I'd have to agree with this post.
Build your PC, always cheaper than retail, though buying it retail isn't as bad as it used to be, still better to buy the parts off Newegg and follow a guide to build it...
and go with the Valve Complete Pack first for gaming. The amount of content in that will last you awhile. Still $75 during the Holiday sale, pick it up before it's back to $99. :P
 
brain_stew said:
This advice need a caveat, do not buy a "headset" per sé, buy some audiophile grade headphones (Sennheiser HD555s on the low end) and a clip on Zalman mic. Most headsets are universally trash when it comes to audio quality, especially the "surround" versions. If you want surround sound from your headphones then get a sound card that'll matrix it over your stereo set, like an X-FI or ASUS.
Click to expand...

Been pretty happy with my, Man, and the surround sound is pretty reasonable. But then, I'm a visual whore and let audio porn slide.
 
I use a logitech microphone that sits on my desk, as well as some decent speakers. I prefer this over a headset. I also recommend the logitech G5 mouse.
Build your own PC, the PC thread here is a good reference and should help you. Steam holiday sales can't be stressed enough.
 
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