If you’re new to PC gaming and wondering if you’re doing it right, there are 5 things you MUST definitely add to your checklist.
1.Make sure your PC is ready for gaming
I can say that you can start gaming with just about any type of computer, but I’d be lying. This is especially true if the game you decide to play requires advanced specs such as:
- Operating System: Install the newest OS. In this case, go with Windows 10.
- Processor: Also known as the CPU, a computer processor is the brain of your PC. It provides the instructions and processing power the computer needs to do its work. I recommend Intel Core i5-6600K @ 3.5 GHz, but if you have money to splurge check out Intel i7-6700.
- Memory or RAM: RAM (random access memory) gives all the applications a place to store and access data on a short-term basis while your computer is actively using it so the data can be accessed more quickly. Generally, an 8 GB RAM should be enough for most PC games, but bigger RAM like 16 GB is always better.
- Graphics Card (also known as video card or GPU/graphics processing unit): This electronic circuit improves the creation and rendering of images, videos, animations and other content. Meaning, it is responsible for how good (or bad) you see your games on the screen. NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 or 1080 8GB can deliver top performance.
- Hard Drive: Games can eat up space on your computer like no other app. Be prepared with a 1TB SSD or HDD.
- High-resolution monitor: Paired with an advanced graphics card, a gaming monitor (ideally 4k ultra-high resolution) will showcase vivid images with accurate colors. Some gamers who have a small-sized monitor also buy a second monitor to expand their real estate and enjoy the games with a lot more space for other things like chat box, youtube, and so on.
These components aren’t cheap. Fortunately, you can buy each part one at a time and still be able to play games that require lower specifications.
2. Accessorize with the right items.
When you buy accessories, think about organization and your comfort, so you won’t go wrong. Some accessories that would make your gaming experience a whole lot better include:
- Gaming headset – For hands-free communication, a gaming headset is a must-have!
- Speakers and microphone – For people who aren’t fans of headsets, a speaker+mic combo would also work.
- Gaming keyboard and mouse – These gadgets aren’t just luxuries. If you’re playing a game and you use standard keyboard and mouse, it could prevent you from playing your 100%. A gaming keyboard and mouse have features like light weightness and one-click or key-lock technologies that would improve your gaming skills.
- Controllers – For games that cannot be played with a keyboard and mouse, game controllers are needed. You can also find wheel controllers for all racing games your heart desires.
- VR system – Want to experience your game on another level? Virtual reality kits could make it happen for you with the right PC game.
- Webcam – If your monitor doesn’t have one built-in, a webcam is essential for your gaming, especially if you plan to stream online.
- Wifi Extender – To play without interrupted connection, use a Wifi extender
A gaming chair is a big-ticket purchase, but if you’re going to spend a lot of time on your computer, your back will thank you if you invest in a comfortable chair.
You can also invest in other accessories that could enhance your comfort level such as a heated massage back pillow, blue-light blocking glasses, neck pillow, backlighting, and so on.
3. Download Steam.
You have to download Steam if you’re serious about PC gaming. This is an online gaming website that sells a wide variety of PC games (and gives away a TON of free games as well).
If you’re not taking advantage of Steam’s massive library, you’re missing out!
Aside from no longer having to purchase games at brick-and-mortar stores, Steam also has one of the biggest gaming communities in the world. If you love multiplayer games, you won’t run out of people to play with.
4. Join an online community.
Gamers support fellow gamers, even if they play competitively sometimes.
When you join an online community like Reddit, IGN, The Verge, GameSpot, NeoGAF, and other communities where you can explore tips, techniques, cheats, and other information given by other gamers who are playing the same game as you.
5. If you’re not doing it to earn, don’t overdo it.
Playing games can be super-fun and also highly addictive. If you’re not playing PC games professionally (or earning from it), make sure you maintain balance so you could still be productive with everything else.
These 5 tips are just the tip of the iceberg. When you get deeper into PC gaming and get to explore more and more titles, you’ll slowly learn all the ropes yourself.