The Ultimate Guide to PC Gaming: Why Everyone Should Embrace It.
Are you an avid gamer, looking for an entirely new way to experience the gaming world? Then you might have considered dabbling in PC gaming, but held back due to the perceived higher cost and unfamiliar setup. Well, it’s time to take the plunge – PC gaming offers a plethora of advantages over console gaming, and once you discover them, you’ll never look back!
To help you gain an insight into the world of PC gaming, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to PC gaming. Here we’ll discuss everything from the potential costs to all the quirky little tools at your disposal, and why all gamers should give PC gaming a try!
What Is PC Gaming?
Definition-wise, PC gaming refers to the use of your home computer to play video games. As a result, all PC games are typically stored as data files, rather than taking the physical form of a disc like consoles. PCs also generally support more complex and detailed graphics than their console counterparts – so PC gamers should anticipate the most immersive experience possible!
Benefits of PC Gaming
No matter what type of gaming you love, there’s something PC gaming can do that consoles just can’t match. Here are just some of the reasons why every gamer should give PC gaming a go:
1. Cost
PC gaming is a lot more affordable than most people think. You don’t need to spend a fortune on an expensive rig to start playing great games. Moreover, the cost of buying games for PCs is on a par with their console counterparts. You can pick up popular titles from sites such as Steam or Good Old Games for extremely reasonable discounts, and you’ll often find even better offers on bundles and sale events.
2. Mods
The modding community for PC gaming is incredibly strong, and there’s plenty of scope for customizing your games and enhancing your experience. Mods are modifications that you can make in order to change a game’s mechanics, visuals, AI, or just about anything. They’re created by an ever-growing and passionate modding community, with players sharing their work across the internet and forums. Best of all – they’re usually free!
3. Accessories
There are plenty of great gaming accessories on the market, specifically designed to enhance your PC gaming experience. From mechanical keyboards, high-quality headsets, and specialized gaming chairs; you’ll find more than enough tech to take your gaming set-up to the next level.
Having the right accessories can make all the difference to PC gamers, as they provide features not available on console machines. Plus, once you’ve got all the pieces of your gaming set-up, the level of immersion will reach unprecedented levels – you’ll feel like you’re actually in the game world!
4. Graphics
In terms of graphics, PCs always come out on top. If you want the best-looking visuals and to experience the realism that current-gen console games can’t match, then PC gaming is the way to go. Console games usually look far less detailed and can suffer from frame-rate problems. PCs, on the other hand, are far better equipped to handle increased levels of graphical detail and more complex data, resulting in ultra-immersive and top-quality visuals.
5. More Variety
PC gaming boasts a wide range of ways to enjoy your favorite games. Not only can you play games on your desktop PC, but you can also game on laptops, tablets, and the upcoming range of Chromebooks. This helps to open up PC gaming to more people than ever, offering a convenient and portable alternative to console gaming.
6. Gaming Network
Finally, gaming networks are another great benefit of PC gaming. Networks such as Steam allow you to browse games, download demos, watch trailers and purchase games. You can even stay connected with friends who also play PC games – and earn exclusive offers and promotions.
Overall, these benefits all add up to an incredibly rewarding and satisfying gaming experience, making PC gaming a great choice for all gamers.
Comparing PC Gaming to Console Gaming
When weighing up your options for gaming however, it’s only natural to wonder how exactly PC gaming stacks up against the traditional console experience. Ultimately, there is no one ‘right’ answer – your decision should come down to personal preference, budget and the type of games you like to play.
In terms of cost, the PC gaming set-up can be more expensive than the console rigs, due to the fact that gaming PCs require more powerful hardware. However, the cost of games is generally the same, and with hardware prices dropping all the time, the gap between console and PC gaming costs is narrowing more than ever.
When it comes to exclusives, console gaming has the edge. While some PC games also have console versions available, many also don’t; meaning that console gaming offers access to certain titles and genres of games that may not be available to PC gamers. However, when it comes to multiplayer – PCs offer the best support, offering dedicated servers and larger player-bases for most games. It’s also worth noting that the back-catalogue for PC games is far larger than its console counterparts, which can make for some great deals in terms of older titles.
In terms of graphics, PC gaming is more powerful, offering more visually detailed and intricate gaming worlds. PCs also have support for the best gaming peripherals, such as gaming headsets, which can add a whole extra level of immersion to your PC gaming experience.
The Best PC Games to Play
Ready to get gaming on your PC? Here are some of the best games to get you started:
1. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. As its a PC exclusive, The Witcher 3 stands out as one of the greatest RPG games of all time. Its enormous world and highly detailed narrative keeps players engrossed – you’ll find yourself running around for hours conquering the beautifully crafted world.
2. Stardew Valley. If you’re someone who loves a leisurely gaming experience, Stardew Valley is the perfect choice. It’s a peaceful farming simulator filled with exploration, hidden secrets, and adorable pixel art visuals. You can even play it in multiplayer.
3. Overwatch. For anyone craving an intense battle game, Overwatch is a great pick. It’s a hero shooter that focuses on team-based action and strategic objectives, with an impressively varied cast of characters.
4. Rocket League. It may have started life on console, but PC gamers can still get in on the fun! Rocket League is an addictive vehicular sports game in which teams of car players perform stunts and chase a giant ball. The intense, fast-paced and unique gameplay will have you hooked.
5. Portal games. Both Portal and Portal 2 are classic PC gaming experiences and must-plays for anyone who desires a story-rich, relentless puzzle experience. The two games feature a series of incredibly detailed puzzles, and the humorous writing will keep you entertained from start to finish.
6. Sid Meier’s Civilization V. Civilization V is an insanely addictive turn-based strategy game. Its in-depth gameplay allows players to control & develop their own civilization over hundreds of years, across multiple epochs.
7. Grand Theft Auto V. The fifth installment of the iconic series still stands as one of the best open-world games out there. You can cause chaos, pick up missions and enjoy some amazing next-gen visuals in this classic title.
8. Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. Last, but by no means least, Skyrim is a classic, action-filled RPG game. Its sprawling game world is full of side missions and bosses to defeat, as you make your way through the story. PC gamers even have the advantage of being able to mod the game – making it an even more unique experience.
Conclusion
So there you have it – a comprehensive guide to PC gaming. From surreal graphics and mods, to the larger range of available titles, PC gaming offers a unique and immersive experience for all gamers. It may be intimidating for those familiar with the console format but, with the help of our guide, you’ll soon feel right at home.
With all the fantastic titles, innovative peripherals and unbeatable prices available, PC gaming is well worth giving a go. So, what are you waiting for? Get gaming!