The problem with computer games is that once the basics are mastered and the lower levels are completed, the games require a more demanding level of skill to progress. This is when operating system restrictions, memory limitations, window switching, also known as disk swapping, to and from RAM, faster high performance RAM, CPU and graphics rendering time and channels , they become evident. It is quite possible to have a home gaming machine that costs tens of thousands of dollars. A good pair of graphics cards can be almost half the cost of the system. It is also possible to play very well games that run on a thousand dollar machine.

Tips to keep in mind for gaming computers. If you don’t know what you’re doing, get the best machine you can afford. If you’re knowledgeable, building your own machine is far superior to any box store product.

Priority list for building a gaming machine:

** Select a case that suits your needs. If you are a LAN gamer, get as lightweight a box as you can that will hold your components securely. 5% of the total cost.

** Don’t skimp on the power supply. Too many people have thousands of dollars of electronics that run on a $ 50 power supply. Get the best power supply you can afford, it should be 5% of the system price.

** Motherboard. Get an FSB as fast as you can, especially if you plan to overclock. Determine if you want an AMD or Intel-based machine FIRST. 15% of the total cost.

** CPU. Get the most flexible CPU at the best price you can find. If you’re overclocking, check that your CPU is up to the stress and what cooling solutions are suitable. 10% -15% of the cost.

** Memory. RAM with the lowest CAS latency and can accommodate overclocking speeds is critical. 5% of the cost.

** Graphics. Determine if you want nVidia or ATI graphics. Dual graphics cards are for the very high-end gamers; a single excellent graphics card is better than two mediocre cards, as a general rule. 30% to 50% of the cost.

** Disk drives. If you can afford a solid state drive, that’s the best way to go. Otherwise, consider a 10,000 RPM SATA drive. RAID is for the pros. 10% of the cost and more.

Games are not an inexpensive hobby. However, you don’t have to break your budget if all you want to do is occasionally play a simulation or adventure game.