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GAMING FEATURE

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Not sure where to begin when it comes to PC gaming? We’re here to help! From the rig itself to accessories that you may need (or want), we’ve put together this handy beginner’s guide. Words Bec Summer GET GOING WITH PC GAMING

U nlike games consoles, where you basically just plug it in and away you go, PC gaming introduces more variables. Which processor? What graphics card? How much memory? What sort of storage, and what size? Then, do you go for the versatility of a desktop system, the flexibility of a laptop, or the full-on portability of a handheld? PROCESSOR The absolute heart of your gaming PC, this determines the ultimate performance of your rig. There are two big competitors in this space, Intel, and AMD. Like many things, usually the higher the number, the better the performance – an i9 is greater than an i5, for example. If you’re looking at running all the latest AAA games, you’ll really want to aim high here. GRAPHICS Rarely a consideration for those after productivity PCs, dedicated graphics are a must for those who aim to play

the latest and greatest games. NVIDIA tend to lead the way here, with dedicated graphics chips, and providing regular updates to ensure that all the new games will play nicely with your system. MEMORY This is where the code for your game sits and runs, and most games nowadays tend towards being quite memory hungry. So, aim for a minimum of 16GB here, and if 32GB is an option – or you have the potential to expand – then it’s well worth considering. STORAGE How many games do you want installed at the same time? While a 512GB SSD – that’s short for ‘Solid State Drive’, a moving parts-free, speedier option than old school mechanical hard drives – is a solid choice, 1TB really is the sweet spot. Otherwise, look that you have the option to go bigger down the track via an internal upgrade.

PORT TALK

Regardless of the PC you go for, ensure that it has all the ports you need. As many USB as possible, and HDMI to send video to an external screen are musts, while a LAN port for wired internet will deliver more reliable online play.

Asus ROG Strix G13CH Gaming Desktop Two power-packed options offer a choice of 13th generation Intel Core i5/16GB/512GB/GeForce RTX 3050 graphics, or a mega 13th generation Intel Core i7/16GB/512GB/

MSI MPG Trident AS Gaming Desktops

With several configuration options available, there’s an MPG Trident to suit any gamer’s needs. Each packs a zippy Intel Core processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics, plus RGB lighting in a wild windowed tower case that’s also compact, so it takes up minimal desk space.

DESKTOP The least portable, most space hungry option, a desktop gaming rig also allows the most flexibility for upgrading components in the future. Plus, some of them look amazing with RGB lighting and space age designs. Here are two great options:

GeForce RTX 4060. Either way, you’re on a readily expandable winner. There’s even a glass side panel so that you can see inside!

42 APRIL 2024

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