The Benefits of PC Gaming Software: Complete Your Setup.
Are you an avid PC gamer? If so, you know how important the right software is to achieve the optimal gaming experience. With the right PC gaming software, gamers can customize their gaming setup and reach the level they desire.
For gamers getting started or already into the game, this guide is for you. It will take you through the basics of PC gaming software, as well as some of the more advanced elements of setting up and customizing your ideal gaming rig.
What Is PC Gaming Software?
Put simply, PC gaming software is the backbone of any PC gaming set up. It comprises three different elements — hardware, software and accessories.
The hardware can include motherboards, CPUs, GPUs, shelving units and more. It’s normally the fans, heat sinks and other parts of the machine that make it all tick.
The software is the program that comes with the machine. It can either be provided with the machine or it can be purchased. This software can be used to control the graphics and display settings, as well as any special features like AI, virtual reality, etc.
Finally, the accessories can be anything from a headset, gaming mouse, and mousepad, to a joystick and racing wheels.
Essential PC Gaming Software
Now, let’s look at some of the essential pieces of software that gamers need to be aware of in order to make their setup more effective.
1. Operating System (OS)
The Operating System (OS), is one of the most important pieces of software for any PC gaming setup. Your OS is the foundation for everything else, so you’ll need to make sure it fits the gaming genre you want to explore.
Windows is the most popular OS for gaming. It supports the widest range of third-party applications, software and games. You can also find plenty of gaming-optimized versions of Windows, such as Windows 10 N, Pro and Home.
Other popular OSs include Linux, macOS and SteamOS (for gaming). All of these have excellent gaming options to choose from, too.
2. Maintenance Software
If you want to make the most of your gaming machine, then you need to maintain it well. Indeed, this is key to getting the best out of your setup.
Maintenance software is the perfect way to take care of your gear. It can detect and report any issues, and offer solutions to troubleshoot them. Examples of maintenance software include CPU-Z, LatencyMon and Memtest86+.
3. Graphics Card Drivers
Graphics are important in PC gaming. A game looks in-depth and realistic if it has detailed graphics, and for that, you’ll need a good graphics card.
But, even if you have the best graphics card on the market, you won’t reap the full benefits of it until you install the right graphics card driver. This driver will help unlock the full potential of your GPU’s performance.
On Windows, you can use AMD’s or NVIDIA’s Auto Detect Tool to update your graphics card driver. On Linux, you can use the terminal window in your distro’s driver manager to do the same thing.
4. Benchmarking Software
Benchmarking software can provide a great insight into how well your gaming rig is performing. It also helps you measure how a game runs on your machine and how to push it further.
By benchmarking your system, you can compare its output to other set-ups, as well as find out additional information on gaming performance.
On the PC, you can use benchmarking software like 3DMark and FurMark. Or, for more detailed testing, you can use Unigine Heaven and AIDA64.
5. Audio Software
PC gaming requires multiple elements: graphics, audio and AI. For an immersive experience, gamers need audio that’s realistic and detailed. That’s why the right audio software is an important factor in the overall gaming experience.
The most widely used audio software for PC gaming, is Creative’s Sound Blaster Card. It’s a compact card that fits into PCs and comes with loads of features, such as positional audio, surround-sound and more.
Also widely used, is the Logitech G430 Gaming Headset. It comes with Dolby 7.1 surround sound that provides powerful and realistic audio for gaming.
Advanced PC Gaming Software
For advanced PC gamers, there’s a huge range of PC gaming software available. Here are some of the more sophisticated software packages:
1. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
With the improved capabilities of AI, gamers can enjoy much more in-depth gaming experiences. AI can help with tasks like providing extra security and dynamic locations, as well as aiding characters with their conversations.
Xionsy’s ‘Rotor’ AI platform can be used to help create unique gaming worlds, while ‘GameGuru AI’ can be used to give computer-controlled characters extra realistic behaviour.
2. Virtual Reality (VR)
VR gaming has been growing in popularity, as it gives gamers the chance to completely immerse themselves in their favourite games.
To get start VR gaming, most PC gamers will need a VR headset, such as an Oculus Rift or a Samsung Gear VR. Plus, Valve has its own SteamVR software, which allows you to play Steam titles in virtual reality.
3. Augmented Reality (AR)
Augmented reality (AR) is another huge factor in PC gaming software. It is a way to incorporate a more realistic gaming experience using the real world as a platform.
Currently, ARKit and ARCore are the top two contenders for PC AR gaming. ARKit is a platform built for iOS apps, while ARCore is for Android apps.
In addition to these two frameworks, Unity also offers its own ARKit and ARCore modules, as part of its AR Foundation.
Conclusion
For PC gamers getting started or already into the game, having the right tools and software is absolutely essential.
Between the different software programs, operating systems, audio software, AI and VR options, it can be daunting. But, with the right knowledge, you can set up the ideal gaming rig to take your gaming experience to the next level.
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