So I've been out the game for awhile, Want to build myself a new computer Options

[berkshire0]

So I want to build myself a new computer but it has been a long time since I built my current one. Basically I just want some info on up-to-date hardware. What is good? What CPUs and video cards are bueno? I am mostly looking to use this computer for gaming--but I'm not a hard core gamer, just a social to moderately social gamer. I'll keep my current one for storing pictures, music, etc.

[Grif]

Core 2 Duo/Quad are the cream of the crop processor wise. As far as video card the AMD 48XX and the nVidia 260 280 are the current best, and there isnt too much of a difference between the two. The AMD cards offer the best bang for the buck, but you can get more speed for big increase in price from the nVidia cards.

If you want a budget gaming system (read good performance/low price) an AMD Phenom processor system isnt horrible. There is a noticable difference in performance, but there is also a noticable difference in price.

If you want to go with Intel, I would recommend waiting till the new processors come out, and hope for the current offerings to drop in price (which they should).

Minimum to look for: Intel Core 2 duo, or AMD Phenom x4, AMD/ATI 48XX or nVidia 260/280 (98XX but less future proofing).

These are obviously general thoughts on the matter, with a price range, and knowing if you want to build it yourself or buy it built I can point you to some very specific systems/components.