The Best PC Build for RPGs and MMOs: A Comprehensive Guide

Starting your PC gaming journey with RPGs and MMOs is an excellent choice, as these genres require a balanced build that focuses on performance rather than extreme graphics settings. Whether you are an AMD or NVIDIA enthusiast, this guide will help you create the ideal gaming PC while keeping your budget in mind.

What to Look for in a Build

When building a PC for RPGs and MMOs, the key components you should focus on are the Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), Central Processing Unit (CPU), and the overall system configuration. This guide will help you make informed decisions for each of these elements to ensure smooth playback of these demanding game types.

Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

The GPU is the most crucial component for your build, especially for gaming. You want a high-performing card that can handle the graphics demands of RPGs and MMOs without breaking the bank. Depending on whether you opt for AMD or NVIDIA, here are the recommended cards:

For AMD Enthusiasts:

As of March 2019, I would recommend the RX 570 4GB, which is priced at around 130 USD. This card excels at 1080p resolution and offers excellent performance for RPGs and MMOs. Additionally, if you decide to purchase an AMD system, you get the 2 Free Games bundle, adding value to your build.

Note: Keep an eye on the GTX 1650, expected to release soon, priced at approximately 180 USD. Although its performance hasn't been sealed, it is rumored to outperform the RX 570 for 1080p resolution, making it worth considering as an alternative.

For NVIDIA Enthusiasts:

The GTX 1050 Ti 4GB is an excellent choice, priced at around 150 USD. This card provides solid performance for your gaming needs, ensuring smooth gameplay for RPGs and MMOs.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The CPU is the second most important part of your system, and its choice can significantly impact your gaming performance. Here are the recommendations based on your preferred architecture:

For Intel Enthusiasts:

If you opt for Intel, the Core i5 8400 is a great choice, priced at around 199 USD. This processor offers excellent performance, making it suitable for both gaming and general computing tasks.

Note: Although Intel is faster in pure gaming performance, the difference in performance is generally around 5% faster than AMD, depending on the game.

For AMD Enthusiasts:

For AMD enthusiasts, I recommend the Ryzen 5 2600, priced at around 165 USD, which comes with a free copy of The Division 2. This processor is known for its excellent performance and value for money.

Depending on your choice, ensure you have the appropriate motherboard. If you opt for the AMD Ryzen 5 2600, a B350 or B450 motherboard is recommended to allow for overclocking if you choose to pursue that route. Intel does not allow overclocking on its non-K SKUs, so you won't need to worry about it with the Intel build.

Memory (RAM)

Selecting the right amount and type of RAM is crucial for system performance. Here are the recommendations for both AMD and Intel:

AMD:

A dual-channel 8GB RAM kit is recommended, as most modern systems will benefit from higher speeds and more available slots. You can find high-speed DDR4 RAM for around 49 USD.

Intel:

For Intel builds, a single-channel 8GB kit is sufficient. However, if you plan to add more RAM in the future, consider purchasing a dual-channel 16GB kit, available for around 84 USD.

Ensure that the RAM you choose supports the highest speeds and has the lowest latency for optimal performance.

Storage

Finally, consider the importance of storage for both your operating system and game files. An SSD (Solid State Drive) will significantly improve the load times for your games and operating system. Here are the recommended storage solutions:

SSD for the System:

For the best performance, invest in an M.2 SSD, which can be found for around 70 USD. This will provide quick boot times and game loading, enhancing your overall gaming experience.

Storage for Games:

For additional storage, a traditional hard drive (HDD) or another M.2 SSD is recommended. You can find a 1TB HDD for around 50 USD or a 1TB M.2 SSD for around 100 USD.

By selecting the right components and keeping your budget in mind, you can build the perfect PC for RPGs and MMOs. Whether you opt for AMD or NVIDIA, the above recommendations will ensure you have a high-performing system tailored to your gaming needs.

If you have further questions or need more personalized advice, feel free to drop your queries in the comments section below. I'm here to help!