Gaming Accessories: What You Really Need to Game Like a Pro

Gaming Accessories (Source: TechChai)

Gaming is a fun pastime for many, and whether you have been a gamer for years or just getting into it, there are a few things you need to get the best out of the experience. It does not matter if your game of choice is a massively multiplayer online (MMO) game or a first person shooter (FPS). There are common needs with each type of game...

The Requirements of a Gaming PC

There are four main aspects to a decent gaming computer: graphics card (GPU), RAM, processing power, and cooling. A minimum of 8 GB of RAM is practically essential to ensure a game runs smoothly. Without sufficient RAM, the graphics card and processor cannot keep up with the demands of a modern PC game, which tends to cause an insufferable amount of lag. Look for at least 3.0 GHz in a dual or quad-core processor to further minimize the chance of lag and game crashes.

Though the processor will have a fan, the GPU should have its own RAM and cooling fan as well, which ensures that a game plays without any hiccups and that the case keeps relatively cool. A GPU with 256 MB of RAM renders most games nicely, but it is better to have one with 1 – 2 GB of RAM to avoid choppy game play. Finally, make sure the GPU has HD capability to take advantage of crisp graphics engines for heightened game play. To see even more valuable information on gaming computers check this out.

Large Monitor

While a 22 inch monitor is will give you a good gaming experience, there is nothing quite like a larger display. Even if you do not want to buy a 24 – 30 inch monitor, consider bringing the PC out to the living room or bedroom and running a cable from the DVI or HDMI port on the graphics card to an HDMI port on the HDTV. Imagine your favorite PC game at the same size you would usually enjoy a console game or an HD film—awesome. Check out these monitors for more options.

In addition to the size factor, you should consider a few more things. A monitor that has a VGA display is more than sufficient for most games, but one that has a DVI port or an HDMI port will increase the visual aspects of a game exponentially. Even if your PC doesn't have a DVI port, there are cables that plug into the DVI port on a monitor with an HDMI end for the PC. That will increase the crispness of the display and make the game come alive.

Gaming Peripherals

To maximize on your gaming experience, you also need the right gaming accessories. Any gamer who plays with others, whether in an MMO or an FPS co-op, needs a headset for in-game chat. One that sits comfortably on the head is preferable to minimize the possibility of headaches, and make sure the microphone has noise-canceling capability.

In addition, a regular mouse, may seem sufficient, but it is not in most instances. A gaming mouse has anywhere from 3 – 12 extra buttons, which make it easy to quickly access all the oft-used skills and panels within a game without wasting precious time. Interestingly, the one regular peripheral a gamer can get away with is a keyboard, but an ergonomic model is nice on the wrists during prolonged gaming sessions.

Modern gaming needs modern equipment for full enjoyment. It does not have to cost a lot, but upgrading at least a mouse or RAM will only increase the pleasure gaming brings to life.