Ultimate PC Gaming Guide: Tips, Tricks, and Trends for 2021 and Beyond
Welcome to the ultimate PC gaming guide! Here we will take a deep dive into the world of PC gaming, covering everything from the best hardware setups and game genres to tips and tricks to level up your gaming experience. So, whether you are a newbie trying to get into PC gaming or a seasoned veteran looking to elevate your game, this guide – chock full of the latest information, trends, and advice – is perfect for you.
A. Choose Your Weapon: PC Gaming Hardware Basics
The first step in any PC gaming journey is deciding on the right hardware to suit your needs. Gaming PCs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so it’s vital to understand the intricacies of their components to make informed decisions when shopping for or building a gaming rig.
1. Gaming Desktops vs. Gaming Laptops
Gaming technology has made leaps and bounds in recent years, creating a vast array of desktop and laptop options that cater to different performance levels and budgets. Choosing between a desktop setup and a laptop setup primarily depends on your mobility needs and allocated budget.
While gaming desktops usually offer better performance and easier upgrades, gaming laptops have become increasingly powerful, providing a portable solution for gamers on the go. They are often more expensive and harder to upgrade, and you may have to compromise on performance compared to a similarly priced desktop.
2. Processors (CPU)
A gaming rig’s performance starts with its central processing unit (CPU), which is responsible for executing commands and running processes. It is crucial to select a CPU that matches the type of games you play and the desired level of performance.
The two giants of the CPU world are Intel and AMD. Both companies offer a range of processors at various price points, offering excellent performance for PC gaming.
For exceptional gaming performance, consider the AMD Ryzen 5 or Ryzen 7 series or the Intel Core i5 or i7 series. These processors provide ample power for modern titles but may feature steeper price tags. If budget-conscious, you can find slightly older models at lower prices that still deliver commendable performance.
3. Graphics Cards (GPU)
One of the most crucial components for PC gaming is the graphics processing unit (GPU), which renders images, animations, and visual effects on the screen. The choice of GPU has a significant impact on gaming performance, making it essential to choose wisely.
Nvidia and AMD dominate the GPU market with their respective GeForce and Radeon series, offering models that cater to various performance levels and budgets.
The key factors when choosing a GPU are resolution and refresh rate. If your monitor has a refresh rate of 60Hz, it can display up to 60 frames per second (fps). A higher refresh rate supports more fps, offering smoother gaming experiences. As for resolution, the latest GPUs can easily run games at 1080p, with higher-end models supporting 1440p and even 4K.
It’s essential to balance your CPU and GPU choices to prevent “bottlenecking,” where one component significantly hinders the other’s capabilities.
4. RAM (Memory)
RAM (Random Access Memory) plays a vital role in your PC’s performance. It stores data that your system needs to access quickly and serves as temporary storage for applications and games. When it comes to gaming, having sufficient RAM ensures smooth performance and allows for seamless multitasking.
Aim for at least 16GB RAM for a modern gaming setup. Lower capacities, like 8GB, may still work but can hinder performance in more demanding titles or with multiple applications running simultaneously. When choosing RAM, consider not only capacity but also speed and ensure compatibility with your CPU and motherboard.
5. Storage: SSDs and HDDs
Storage is an essential yet often overlooked aspect of gaming PCs. Games are getting larger, and having sufficient storage space to keep your favorite titles installed is crucial.
The two main categories of storage are hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs). HDDs offer larger storage capacities at lower prices but have slower read/write speeds. SSDs, on the other hand, provide faster read/write speeds and improve loading times in games but are more expensive per gigabyte.
It is common to use a combination of the two, with a larger HDD for storage and a smaller SSD for booting your operating system and favorite games. Opting for an SSD alone can be a costly but worthwhile investment.
B. Upgrade Your Toolkit: Gaming Accessories and Peripherals
Choosing the right peripherals and accessories can significantly enhance your PC gaming experience. From gaming mice and keyboards to speakers and headsets, these addons can make all the difference.
1. Gaming Mouse and Keyboard
A gaming mouse often features higher sensitivity, customizable buttons, and ergonomic design, providing increased accuracy and comfort during long gaming sessions. Consider wired or wireless options based on your preference for a clutter-free setup.
Gaming keyboards come in various styles and can be either mechanical or membrane-based. Mechanical keyboards are preferred for their tactile feedback and durability, but ultimately, it comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two options. Consider additional features like backlighting, customizable keys, and wrist rests when selecting a gaming keyboard.
2. Gaming Monitors
Investing in a quality gaming monitor can have a dramatic impact on your gaming experience. Factors to consider when choosing a gaming monitor include resolution, refresh rate, response time, and panel type.
A higher refresh rate offers smoother gameplay and reduced motion blur, with 144Hz being a popular choice among gamers. Response time measures how quickly pixels can change colors, with lower times (1ms-5ms) being preferable for reduced motion blur and ghosting.
There are three main panel types: IPS, TN, and VA, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. IPS panels offer the best color accuracy and viewing angles, TN panels are known for their fast response times, and VA panels provide a compromise between the two with deeper blacks and better contrast.
3. Gaming Headsets and Speakers
Quality audio enhances immersion and can often make a difference in competitive gameplay. Choosing between gaming headsets and speakers primarily depends on your gaming environment and personal preference.
A gaming headset offers a more immersive experience and often includes a built-in microphone for communication with teammates. Look for features like surround sound, comfortable ear cups, and noise-canceling technology to improve the overall gaming experience.
Speakers can offer a better audio experience when gaming in a private environment. High-quality speakers provide crisp and clear sound, significantly enhancing your gaming sessions. Opt for 2.1 or 5.1 surround sound systems for a more immersive experience.
C. Build Your Library: Game Genres and Recommendations
Every PC gamer has a unique taste in games, so we’ve put together a list of popular game genres and recommendations to help build your library.
1. Action and Adventure Games
This genre comprises a broad range of games that frequently involve exciting quests, engaging storytelling, and a blend of action and puzzle solving.
– Must-Play Titles: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, Red Dead Redemption 2, Tomb Raider, Batman: Arkham Knight, and Cyberpunk 2077.
2. Role-Playing Games (RPGs)
RPGs emphasize character development, narrative, and exploration. These games often allow players to make choices that impact the story and gameplay.
– Must-Play Titles: The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, Fallout 4, Divinity: Original Sin 2, Mass Effect Trilogy, and Disco Elysium.
3. First-Person Shooters (FPS) and Battle Royale Games
These competitive games focus on gunplay and fast-paced action. Battle Royale games are a subgenre combining FPS/TPS elements and survival mechanics.
-Must-Play Titles: Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, Apex Legends, Overwatch, and Fortnite.
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