What Spec Gaming PC do I need?
Discussion
I'm looking to purchase a desktop computer for the gaming I do which isn't fulfilled by the PS5. The PS5 does for the FPS and AAA games I play with Mrs. D, for the past year it's basically been Far Cry or RDR2. Any games like that will be played on the PS5.
What I'm looking for is a desktop on which I'll play the games Mrs. D doesn't enjoy and don't transfer well to the console; things such as management sims, turn bases strategy and RTS. In fact, exclusively management sims, turn bases strategy and RTS. The three games I've played over the past two years are planet coaster, civilisation 6 and age of empires. I've no idea what sort of set up I need for this but the desktop I did use had no graphics card and wasn't particularly high spec, but did appear to make a hell of lot of noise and, toward the end of a civ game seemed to take and age to catch up! Can anyone point me in the right direction for the type of spec I should look for please? I'm kind of torn between assuming the games I play don't appear to be graphically intense but (civ especially) do appear to be complex, especially at the later end of the games. Do I need something high ends for this?
What I'm looking for is a desktop on which I'll play the games Mrs. D doesn't enjoy and don't transfer well to the console; things such as management sims, turn bases strategy and RTS. In fact, exclusively management sims, turn bases strategy and RTS. The three games I've played over the past two years are planet coaster, civilisation 6 and age of empires. I've no idea what sort of set up I need for this but the desktop I did use had no graphics card and wasn't particularly high spec, but did appear to make a hell of lot of noise and, toward the end of a civ game seemed to take and age to catch up! Can anyone point me in the right direction for the type of spec I should look for please? I'm kind of torn between assuming the games I play don't appear to be graphically intense but (civ especially) do appear to be complex, especially at the later end of the games. Do I need something high ends for this?
I can't imagine RTS require top-spec CPU and GPU but it's not an area I'm familiar with tbh. All I can recommend it looking up the game on Steam and then look at the recommended requirements. I think there's a user-database on there where people who play the game list what hardware they are using - not sure how to find it but could be a good reference point.
Something like this will do just fine - https://www.scan.co.uk/products/scan-gamer-pba-int...
If it were me, I'd be looking at something with an i5, at least 32GB of RAM and a good sized M2 SSD for the OS and then either another M2 or a fast SSD for storing your games on. As for gfx card, I'm an nVidia fanboy so if budget allows then I'd be tempted by a 3060GTX if budget allows to see you right for a good few years, but ultimately pretty much anything released in the last few years would do it if you're happy to compromise a bit on gfx quality (which, let's be honest, is easy to do with RTS or sim style games like you want).
Not sure what your budget is, but I've used PC Specialist many times now and always been happy with them, plus their website is easy to use to play with configurations to get you where you want to be.
Not sure what your budget is, but I've used PC Specialist many times now and always been happy with them, plus their website is easy to use to play with configurations to get you where you want to be.
Ekona said:
If it were me, I'd be looking at something with an i5, at least 32GB of RAM and a good sized M2 SSD for the OS and then either another M2 or a fast SSD for storing your games on. As for gfx card, I'm an nVidia fanboy so if budget allows then I'd be tempted by a 3060GTX if budget allows to see you right for a good few years, but ultimately pretty much anything released in the last few years would do it if you're happy to compromise a bit on gfx quality (which, let's be honest, is easy to do with RTS or sim style games like you want).
Not sure what your budget is, but I've used PC Specialist many times now and always been happy with them, plus their website is easy to use to play with configurations to get you where you want to be.
Why 32GB RAM, and what's a 3060GTX?Not sure what your budget is, but I've used PC Specialist many times now and always been happy with them, plus their website is easy to use to play with configurations to get you where you want to be.
For the Civ series, I thought it was always more CPU-bound than GPU-bound.
OP, what resolution are you intending to game at, as the requirements for a 144hz 1080p build will be significantly lower (and cheaper) than one for 144hz 4k.
At the lower end, you may even get away with a processor with an iGPU, so you can save the cash on a discrete GPU...and maybe put it towards one when you start playing graphically-heavier games.
In the interests of future upgrade potential, I'd ensure you get a modular (or semi at least) PSU, and with next gen GPUs around the corner, a 850-1000w one at that!
Current gen intel i5 and i7 are probably the best value at the moment..but the Ryzen 5800X 3D is worth a look too (but ensure you get a very good cooling solution as it's a toasty beast).
The one FourWheelDrift has linked to seems good value for the components included. Normally I'd be wary of recommending a low-end motherboard (and an unknown PSU), but at that price it's hard to argue that point...unless you have plans to play something more demanding.
Normally, I'd also advise getting a smaller (256-512gb) SSD purely for the OS, apps and launchers, so that the games can be kept secure on their own drive and the OS drive can be wiped/reinstalled if/when problems occur...without having to re-download TBs of games....but again, it's a price vs value argument.
OP, what resolution are you intending to game at, as the requirements for a 144hz 1080p build will be significantly lower (and cheaper) than one for 144hz 4k.
At the lower end, you may even get away with a processor with an iGPU, so you can save the cash on a discrete GPU...and maybe put it towards one when you start playing graphically-heavier games.
In the interests of future upgrade potential, I'd ensure you get a modular (or semi at least) PSU, and with next gen GPUs around the corner, a 850-1000w one at that!
Current gen intel i5 and i7 are probably the best value at the moment..but the Ryzen 5800X 3D is worth a look too (but ensure you get a very good cooling solution as it's a toasty beast).
The one FourWheelDrift has linked to seems good value for the components included. Normally I'd be wary of recommending a low-end motherboard (and an unknown PSU), but at that price it's hard to argue that point...unless you have plans to play something more demanding.
Normally, I'd also advise getting a smaller (256-512gb) SSD purely for the OS, apps and launchers, so that the games can be kept secure on their own drive and the OS drive can be wiped/reinstalled if/when problems occur...without having to re-download TBs of games....but again, it's a price vs value argument.
Edited by mmm-five on Monday 20th June 11:37
Thanks all, really appreciate the help.
Interesting what you say about the iGPU. Is that when the graphics are integrated onto the CPU? Similar to a mac mini M1?
Thanks again all, the muddy waters are clearing!
parabolica said:
I can't imagine RTS require top-spec CPU and GPU but it's not an area I'm familiar with tbh. All I can recommend it looking up the game on Steam and then look at the recommended requirements. I think there's a user-database on there where people who play the game list what hardware they are using - not sure how to find it but could be a good reference point.
This is my view too, I can't see them requiring high end specs. The issue I have is most on Steam are playing on systems that are far in excess of what they need so it appears that the figures are skewed toward serious gaming machines. Any of that type of gaming i'd do with the Mrs. on the PS5 so wouldn't do it on the PC.FourWheelDrift said:
Something like this will do just fine - https://www.scan.co.uk/products/scan-gamer-pba-int...
Ekona said:
If it were me, I'd be looking at something with an i5, at least 32GB of RAM and a good sized M2 SSD for the OS and then either another M2 or a fast SSD for storing your games on. As for gfx card, I'm an nVidia fanboy so if budget allows then I'd be tempted by a 3060GTX if budget allows to see you right for a good few years, but ultimately pretty much anything released in the last few years would do it if you're happy to compromise a bit on gfx quality (which, let's be honest, is easy to do with RTS or sim style games like you want).
Not sure what your budget is, but I've used PC Specialist many times now and always been happy with them, plus their website is easy to use to play with configurations to get you where you want to be.
Thanks both, this gives me an idea of what I should aim for. In terms of budget, I've not really set one. I'm happy to spend on what I'd need but I'd prioritise having a more cost effective machine over having the ability to play at 4k or high end gaming which I don't use. I'm certainly more than happy with the £900 above but cheaper would obviously be lovely too!Not sure what your budget is, but I've used PC Specialist many times now and always been happy with them, plus their website is easy to use to play with configurations to get you where you want to be.
mmm-five said:
For the Civ series, I thought it was always more CPU-bound than GPU-bound.
OP, what resolution are you intending to game at, as the requirements for a 144hz 1080p build will be significantly lower (and cheaper) than one for 144hz 4k.
At the lower end, you may even get away with a processor with an iGPU, so you can save the cash on a discrete GPU...and maybe put it towards one when you start playing graphically-heavier games.
In the interests of future upgrade potential, I'd ensure you get a modular (or semi at least) PSU, and with next gen GPUs around the corner, a 850-1000w one at that!
Current gen intel i5 and i7 are probably the best value at the moment..but the Ryzen 5800X 3D is worth a look too (but ensure you get a very good cooling solution as it's a toasty beast).
The one FourWheelDrift has linked to seems good value for the components included. Normally I'd be wary of recommending a low-end motherboard (and an unknown PSU), but at that price it's hard to argue that point...unless you have plans to play something more demanding.
Normally, I'd also advise getting a smaller (256-512gb) SSD purely for the OS, apps and launchers, so that the games can be kept secure on their own drive and the OS drive can be wiped/reinstalled if/when problems occur...without having to re-download TBs of games....but again, it's a price vs value argument.
Thankyou. Yes, I can't see it being taxing on the GPU but I'm not knowledgeable. I have no idea what resolution I game at on PC which probably speaks volumes of the gamer I am and the types of games I enjoy. On checking, the monitor I have is a cheapy I was recommended by another gamer who knows my priorities and picked up for £150 a couple of years ago. Its an AOC Q3279VWF, it's 1440 at 75Hz. OP, what resolution are you intending to game at, as the requirements for a 144hz 1080p build will be significantly lower (and cheaper) than one for 144hz 4k.
At the lower end, you may even get away with a processor with an iGPU, so you can save the cash on a discrete GPU...and maybe put it towards one when you start playing graphically-heavier games.
In the interests of future upgrade potential, I'd ensure you get a modular (or semi at least) PSU, and with next gen GPUs around the corner, a 850-1000w one at that!
Current gen intel i5 and i7 are probably the best value at the moment..but the Ryzen 5800X 3D is worth a look too (but ensure you get a very good cooling solution as it's a toasty beast).
The one FourWheelDrift has linked to seems good value for the components included. Normally I'd be wary of recommending a low-end motherboard (and an unknown PSU), but at that price it's hard to argue that point...unless you have plans to play something more demanding.
Normally, I'd also advise getting a smaller (256-512gb) SSD purely for the OS, apps and launchers, so that the games can be kept secure on their own drive and the OS drive can be wiped/reinstalled if/when problems occur...without having to re-download TBs of games....but again, it's a price vs value argument.
Interesting what you say about the iGPU. Is that when the graphics are integrated onto the CPU? Similar to a mac mini M1?
Thanks again all, the muddy waters are clearing!
sebdangerfield said:
Interesting what you say about the iGPU. Is that when the graphics are integrated onto the CPU? Similar to a mac mini M1?
Yes, it's integrated in the CPU...both Intel and AMD offer them...but I'm not sure how well they compare to a discrete GPU.Although GamersNexus on youtube does have some comparisons, and in on case the Ryzen 5 5600G/5700G (the 'G' denotes integrated graphics) is broadly equivalent gaming performance to an Nvidia GT1030...and stronger than the Intel iGPU offerings (for now).
Thankyou, that could be a goer. There really is never a time when I'd play anything other than Civ or some other sim/management game as those type are played on PS5 on the sofa with the Mrs. Mrs. D is a serious gamer and has a set up of NES, SNES, N64, Dreamcast, PS2, Wii, Switch, PS5 in the snug which is her nerd room.
This could be everything I need.
Just checked steam and this is the full list of games I've played in the past 5 years.
Civilisation 6
Two Point Hospital
Age of Empires 2 the definitive edition
Surviving Mars
Satisfactory
Planet Coaster
A bit lame I know
but I like it. I really can't ever see a point where I'd need a high end system as the non nerdy stuff is played on the PS5 and anything we both like is in her nerd room.
This could be everything I need.
Just checked steam and this is the full list of games I've played in the past 5 years.
Civilisation 6
Two Point Hospital
Age of Empires 2 the definitive edition
Surviving Mars
Satisfactory
Planet Coaster
A bit lame I know
but I like it. I really can't ever see a point where I'd need a high end system as the non nerdy stuff is played on the PS5 and anything we both like is in her nerd room.To give you a benchmark, if you are gaming on 1080, here’s my set-up that is pretty modest by today’s standards but still able to take on the newest AAA titles on pretty high graphics settings. Just not 4K or ray tracing etc.
Intel Core i5 10600k (overclocked to 5ghz but that’s not really important)
Noctua N15H air cooler
Nvidia 2070 Super graphics card
32gb DDR4 RAM
2 x 1gb M.2 drives
MSI MPG Gaming Plus motherboard
850W Corsair power supply
I’ve often thought about upgrading the graphics card but on 1080p gaming its still right up there, and does VR gaming well. The only game where I’ve had to turn things down on is Flight Sim 2020 which is pretty painfully processor- and RAM-hungry.
Intel Core i5 10600k (overclocked to 5ghz but that’s not really important)
Noctua N15H air cooler
Nvidia 2070 Super graphics card
32gb DDR4 RAM
2 x 1gb M.2 drives
MSI MPG Gaming Plus motherboard
850W Corsair power supply
I’ve often thought about upgrading the graphics card but on 1080p gaming its still right up there, and does VR gaming well. The only game where I’ve had to turn things down on is Flight Sim 2020 which is pretty painfully processor- and RAM-hungry.
sebdangerfield said:
Thankyou, that could be a goer. There really is never a time when I'd play anything other than Civ or some other sim/management game as those type are played on PS5 on the sofa with the Mrs. Mrs. D is a serious gamer and has a set up of NES, SNES, N64, Dreamcast, PS2, Wii, Switch, PS5 in the snug which is her nerd room.
This could be everything I need.
Just checked steam and this is the full list of games I've played in the past 5 years.
Civilisation 6
Two Point Hospital
Age of Empires 2 the definitive edition
Surviving Mars
Satisfactory
Planet Coaster
A bit lame I know but I like it. I really can't ever see a point where I'd need a high end system as the non nerdy stuff is played on the PS5 and anything we both like is in her nerd room.
In that case, the one linked will be more than enough...otherwise you're going to have to find another with the iGPU option...which may not be significantly cheaper anyway!This could be everything I need.
Just checked steam and this is the full list of games I've played in the past 5 years.
Civilisation 6
Two Point Hospital
Age of Empires 2 the definitive edition
Surviving Mars
Satisfactory
Planet Coaster
A bit lame I know
but I like it. I really can't ever see a point where I'd need a high end system as the non nerdy stuff is played on the PS5 and anything we both like is in her nerd room.For example, this has a HDD for storage, but has slower RAM and is only £100 cheaper (and because RAM is shared with the system on an iGPU you want the fastest RAM you can (3600mhz preferably as in the original link by FWD)
Sounds like you have a similar taste in PC games to me, and Going Medieval is the only thing I've played recently that even spins the fans up on my i5-8600k and GTX1080 on a 2k monitor.
It copes fine with KSP, Factorio, Civ 5 & 6, Witcher 3, Cities Skylines, X4, Rimworld, XCOM 2, Dyson Sphere Programme, Avorion, plus Beat Sabre and Superhot VR on the Rift.
Given the crazy price of graphics cards at the moment I'd go for a decent i5 or Ryzen 5 with a mid range graphics card, and potentially update the graphics card later unless you want to go with a 4k monitor. 2k looks great on a 27" though.
It copes fine with KSP, Factorio, Civ 5 & 6, Witcher 3, Cities Skylines, X4, Rimworld, XCOM 2, Dyson Sphere Programme, Avorion, plus Beat Sabre and Superhot VR on the Rift.
Given the crazy price of graphics cards at the moment I'd go for a decent i5 or Ryzen 5 with a mid range graphics card, and potentially update the graphics card later unless you want to go with a 4k monitor. 2k looks great on a 27" though.
RizzoTheRat said:
Sounds like you have a similar taste in PC games to me, and Going Medieval is the only thing I've played recently that even spins the fans up on my i5-8600k and GTX1080 on a 2k monitor.
It copes fine with KSP, Factorio, Civ 5 & 6, Witcher 3, Cities Skylines, X4, Rimworld, XCOM 2, Dyson Sphere Programme, Avorion, plus Beat Sabre and Superhot VR on the Rift.
Given the crazy price of graphics cards at the moment I'd go for a decent i5 or Ryzen 5 with a mid range graphics card, and potentially update the graphics card later unless you want to go with a 4k monitor. 2k looks great on a 27" though.
Yep, definitely. That's basically of list of the games I want to play but haven't!It copes fine with KSP, Factorio, Civ 5 & 6, Witcher 3, Cities Skylines, X4, Rimworld, XCOM 2, Dyson Sphere Programme, Avorion, plus Beat Sabre and Superhot VR on the Rift.
Given the crazy price of graphics cards at the moment I'd go for a decent i5 or Ryzen 5 with a mid range graphics card, and potentially update the graphics card later unless you want to go with a 4k monitor. 2k looks great on a 27" though.
What's a mid range graphics card classed as? 3060?
You probably want to visit this thread then 
https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...
Graphics card specs are a pain in the arse as it's not obvious, worth looking at a benchmark comparison site. A quick google suggests a 3060 is a similar performance to my 1080, which surprised me, while the 3070 is around 25% faster, but 50% more expensive.
https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...
Graphics card specs are a pain in the arse as it's not obvious, worth looking at a benchmark comparison site. A quick google suggests a 3060 is a similar performance to my 1080, which surprised me, while the 3070 is around 25% faster, but 50% more expensive.
RizzoTheRat said:
You probably want to visit this thread then
https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...
Graphics card specs are a pain in the arse as it's not obvious, worth looking at a benchmark comparison site. A quick google suggests a 3060 is a similar performance to my 1080, which surprised me, while the 3070 is around 25% faster, but 50% more expensive.
Oh I’m on there! Appreciate the thread! I’d genuinely play any of the games suggested. It was seeing medieval that pushed me to look for a new pc. https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...
Graphics card specs are a pain in the arse as it's not obvious, worth looking at a benchmark comparison site. A quick google suggests a 3060 is a similar performance to my 1080, which surprised me, while the 3070 is around 25% faster, but 50% more expensive.
I had no idea the graphics cards were so close in performance. I’m swaying much more toward a cheaper card, I just wouldn’t use the performance nor be able to without upgrading my monitor (and eyes)
Donbot said:
You could probably get away with an AMD APU for those games.
I have a 3050 and an ancient i5 4460, and AOE2DE and Cities Skylines at 1440p don't drop frames.
Sorry for the (slight) thread hijack, could I ask do you play Cities Skylines modded or unmodded? I fancy picking it up again, but my aging laptop struggles with too many mods installed.I have a 3050 and an ancient i5 4460, and AOE2DE and Cities Skylines at 1440p don't drop frames.
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