I'm looking for the best possible specs in terms of value. In other words, a build where I'm getting the most for my money. As a casual gamer, I'm not concerned with maxing out games so much as just being able to run my games at decent settings and FPS. As such, I'm really looking for the best way to conserve money and get the most years out of my rig.
To put that in practical terms, I want an affordable computer that will be able to run most any game released in the next ~4 years at decent settings. However, I will also want to upgrade at that point, so maybe put more money into areas that will age better (e.g. parts that feasibly wouldn't need to be upgraded for 7-8 years). Future-proofing and cost-effectiveness are my top priorities.
Obviously this is asking a lot, and I'm more looking for pointers than anything. I don't even know if such a build is possible, but I thought I'd appeal to the experts for help.
Approximate Purchase Date: Within the month.
Budget Range: ~$1200 max, but I'd prefer to spend less if more cost effective.
System Usage from Most to Least Important: Gaming only.
Are you buying a monitor: No.
Do you need to buy OS: Yes.
Preferred Website(s) for Parts: No preference.
Location: Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.
Parts Preferences: No preference.
Overclocking: Possibly, if cost effective.
SLI or Crossfire: Maybe, if someone can give a compelling reason to do so.
Additional Comments: Regarding the case, I'm looking for the cheapest, sturdiest option that gets the job done. A little room for upgrades doesn't hurt, but I don't care at all about the appearance of the case.
Thanks in advance for any help or advice!
To put that in practical terms, I want an affordable computer that will be able to run most any game released in the next ~4 years at decent settings. However, I will also want to upgrade at that point, so maybe put more money into areas that will age better (e.g. parts that feasibly wouldn't need to be upgraded for 7-8 years). Future-proofing and cost-effectiveness are my top priorities.
Obviously this is asking a lot, and I'm more looking for pointers than anything. I don't even know if such a build is possible, but I thought I'd appeal to the experts for help.
Approximate Purchase Date: Within the month.
Budget Range: ~$1200 max, but I'd prefer to spend less if more cost effective.
System Usage from Most to Least Important: Gaming only.
Are you buying a monitor: No.
Do you need to buy OS: Yes.
Preferred Website(s) for Parts: No preference.
Location: Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.
Parts Preferences: No preference.
Overclocking: Possibly, if cost effective.
SLI or Crossfire: Maybe, if someone can give a compelling reason to do so.
Additional Comments: Regarding the case, I'm looking for the cheapest, sturdiest option that gets the job done. A little room for upgrades doesn't hurt, but I don't care at all about the appearance of the case.
Thanks in advance for any help or advice!