Change log
Spoiler!
Ok so I was going to try to wait til we got final system specs til I did this but some people just can't seem to wait. So what I'm going to do instead is post all the info I can and try to update it as new stuff comes out.
The purpose of this thread:
Things I will NOT do:Quote:
To help people determine if their computer is up to the task of running this game.
To give the not so PC savvy some ideas for PC builds and PC upgrades for the purposes of gaming with the intent to run PSO2 in the event their computer won't do the job.
To provide a place for all the PC questions to consolidate to avoid forum clutter, while having the big answers where they can easily be found - right on page 1.
To give updated information about options as they come and provide information that matches what we know about the game's specs and updated tech such as new processors and video cards.
The reason I was waiting to post this:Quote:
Tell you how to build a computer. There are tons of guides out there. If I find a good one I'll probably offer a link so you can get step by step instructions. I may be able to help here and there, but I'm not a tech support line. Others with experience may be able to help as well and I encourage anyone with actual experience to offer any info they can.
Tell you how to overclock your machine. Overclocking in simple terms makes your computer run faster. It's not difficult with a home built computer, but if you do it incorrectly you can fry your CPU(processor) because you have to send more power through it than is supposed to be. Quite simply this isn't a tech forum and I would hate to see something get messed up because of a misunderstanding and suddenly your computer is dead.
Tell you how to upgrade your specific computer. There are thousands of different machines out there and each one is built a little differently. I'm happy to give you the basics on what to do, but i cannot see your computer and i cannot tell you exactly how to get to what. What I CAN tell you is use some common sense and a keen eye and everything should go smoothly.
Break down the tech. This stuff is complicated and there's a lot I'm sure people want to know like what one processor can do over another. I don't mind giving simple explanations and answers like how you don't need hyper threading or the difference between a locked and unlocked processor, but anything beyond simple answers are just as easily googled if not more so.
I will not look at each individual computer asked about to see if the processor is up to the task. I will post a link for GPUs and CPUs so you can see how yours stack up. If you don't see yours listed there, don't ask us if it will work because here's your answer: It won't.
Tell you how to upgrade your Mac. Macs are pretty much non-upgradable. The Mac Pro is the only model that is meant to be opened by an end user and they charge ridiculous amounts of money for cards you can get at reasonable prices for PCs. Some PCs GPUs can have their internal software(called firmware) converted to a mac version, however there can be compatibility issues. In addition, you have to have an intel based Mac and use a program called Bootcamp to allow you to install windows as this is a PC only title. If someone else has some tips on this, I'll post them here once I can verify them. Until then, playing on a Mac is not recommended.
Assume any responsibility for any damage you do to yourself, to anyone else, to your property, or anyone else's property as a result of doing this. In all my years of working with computers I've never heard of an incident involving any form of damage or injury. It doesn't hurt to be safe though so make sure you take all precautions possible and look up guides for everything you can if you don't have experience.
The reason you should wait to buy:Quote:
The specs we've been given are for an Alpha. That means a lot can change between now and the time the game comes out. The suggestions I post will be in my estimation beyond anything you would need to run this game. The chances of it being a vast difference are slim to none, but it's worth mentioning.
Also, technology is always changing. What's top of the line today may be middle of the road next week. So rather than tell you to get something now when we still have a ways to go before the game comes out. It's better to wait to see what comes.
That said, if you absolutely need a new computer, were trying to get something put together or upgraded soon for other reasons and were looking for answers, or just can't wait: For now this thread is for you.Quote:
See above.
AGAIN I SUGGEST YOU WAIT AS LONG AS POSSIBLE BEFORE YOU BUY ANYTHING AS I DO NOT WORK FOR SEGA SO I CANNOT HONESTLY GUARANTEE THE FINAL REQUIRED SPECS FOR THE GAME. I CAN ONLY MAKE EDUCATED GUESSES.
Simple terms to remember:
Quote:
CPU: Central Processing Unit. Also known as a processor
GPU: Graphics Processing Unit. This can be a dedicated unit such as video card or a integrated unit that resides within the CPU.
PSU: Power Supply Unit
HDD: Hard Disk Drive. Also known as a hard drive.
Optical Drive: A device that reads (and possibly writes to) optical media. For example a DVD burner.
OS: Operating System (such as Windows)
RAM: Random Access Memory. The computer uses this for active processes such as open programs like your web browser or a game. Also known as system memory.
VRAM: RAM located on a dedicated GPU. Also known as Video RAM
More to come as needed
Specs for the alpha:
As mentioned before these specs are only for the alpha. What that means is it is a test version of the game before it enters the final testing stage (I know, wtf). It's almost certain the minimum reqs will go up for the finished version of the game, probably not by much, but it's worth noting.
Again these are the minimum requirements for the alpha. Anything lower will not do, anything higher should be just fine if you get an invite to the alpha. I expect the requirements to go up a bit before the game is released, so if you have a 7800 gtx and think you just skated by: think again, cause I'd bet money you'll need something more before PSO2 hits the shelves. At the same time I don't believe they'll go up significantly, and I'd guess that if you have a 9800 GT or better you should be fine at least to run the game on low settings. All the same, the only parts I'll be mentioning here for purchase will exceed even a 9800gt to play it safe. If you buy something below what I mention by name and you end up being unable to run the game, don't blame me.
Useful links:
http://www.newegg.com - Great place to buy PCs and parts. Many items have free 3-day shipping. They are a US only website.
http://www.tigerdirect.com - Not as good as newegg, but reliable and they will match newegg's prices if you call them. Because they are largely tax free due to their only shipping location being in the midwest. US only.
http://www.microcenter.com - Another good store. They have better prices than newegg for CPUs. The downside is their selection is limited and you have to pick up CPUs in the store. The upside is they'll usually match newegg if you're nice, so you save on shipping and have a storefront to return things to if something goes wrong. They are US only and have limited locations, so make sure one is local before you try to place an order.
http://www.amazon.com - You can get just about anything here. if you order components from Amazon, make sure you match your part numbers and try to get only from amazon as opposed to random sellers. Amazon store listings are going to be the more accurate guaranteeing you'll get the part you're looking for.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/gateway-eu - Amazon's EU gateway. This is the only place I've seen that really sells to EU shoppers. Everything else I've been able to find looked unreliable and there are shipping companies you can use to route US purchases to EU, but I am unfamiliar with them so use at your own discretion. EU prices will be higher than US prices, so unfortunately I can't always guarantee a certain price. I will add more EU webstores as they come to my attention.
http://www.videocardbenchmark.net/high_end_gpus.html - lists high end GPUs from high to low in accordance to score. To make it easy, use the find command and type the name as it appears. There are some products that have similar names so you want to make sure you're looking at the right one. To be safe, I suggest you consider upgrading if your GPU is either unlisted or ranks below 900. Laptop GPUs are listed as well.
http://www.cpubenchmark.net/mid_range_cpus.html &
http://www.cpubenchmark.net/high_end_cpus.html - Look for your CPU here. To make it easy, use the find command and type the name as it appears. There are some products that have similar names so you want to make sure you're looking at the right one. The E6300 ranks in at 1115 - the top of the low range list. To be safe, I suggest you consider upgrading if you're below 1500. Laptop CPUs are listed as well.
http://www.notebookcheck.net/Mobile-...ist.844.0.html - A list of GPUs for Laptops. If you're insisting on a laptop, don't get anything that isn't listed in the top 50.
About GPUs:
Spoiler!
About Store-bought Desktops:
Spoiler!
About Laptops:
Spoiler!
About Building your own desktop:
If someone else posts a sensible build, I'll probably add it here. I'm looking to add one that will just barely exceed the minimum specs for the cheapskates. Obviously since we don't have the final specs the cheap-o one will take a while. these prices do not include monitors, speakers, keyboard or mouse as I assume if you already have a computer you have all these. I will however recommend a few monitors and a keyboard and mouse if you need them.Quote:
The benefits to building your own desktop take many forms. for starters you get to pick every part from start to finish, meaning you know exactly what's in your computer.
In addition, you get to pick your own case allowing you to find something that you like for looks as much as utility. Some cases even have LEDs on the fans and dust filters to keep the inside of your computer clean. The Cases can also have a tool-less design allowing you to put your computer together without ever having to look for a screwdriver.
Because you're installing a fresh OS, there will be no added software that runs when the computer starts up like weird trials or demos trying to sell you products you don't want. This allows the computer to run faster as it reduces the number of background processes.
Building a computer can be rewarding. You'll have a feeling of accomplishment every time you turn the computer on. Whenever you look at it you'll be able to think "I did that."
I personally find putting a computer together fun. You may as well
It's much cheaper than buying one from a store.
I will post several builds that will work well as gaming solutions all but guaranteed to run the game at different price points. Here is a guide to building a computer (NOT WRITTEN BY ME) If you feel like taking this task on. Skip step one as I've gone and done that for you with these lists. Alternatively you can buy the parts and pay someone else to do it, like a knowledgeable cousin, or a local computer store.
Things you will need:
A philips head screwdriver
A large open space like a good sized table
parts (duh)
literacy
steady hands
common sense
needle nose pliers(optional but helpful)
Ezodagrom has a topic with various CPUs and GPUs listed which can be found here. They all meet the minimum for the currently known specs.
Ezo Has also provided a build for a modest gaming rig that can be built for just over $700.00 before tax and shipping.
Spoiler!
Here is a similar build I've devised with a much better video card and CPU for $100 more.
Spoiler!
This is on the semi extreme. This goes beyond standard gaming and into enthusiast. If you've been wanting to throw down some cash and show off your rig: this is your foot in the door. Because of the nature of this build, I'll be listing some extra options. This machine is a little on the expensive side.
Spoiler!
Here it is: This is a requested balls out super high end build. Based on the enthusiast build listed above, this takes all of that and step everything up to the extreme. This is not a maxed out computer, but puts you in a position for it. It includes faster RAM, an incredibly powerful motherboard, a massive PSU to support up the 3 extremely high performance video cards, and one of the best CPUs and GPUs available while still affording you flexibility and expansion. This build will be screaming fast and play even the most demanding games at well over 60fps PLUS you'll still be able to overclock everything to really get the most out of your computer.
This machine features a Solid State drive(SSD) which is like a giant flash drive. It's silent, runs cool, has better longevity than a normal HDD and is extremely fast. It's limited by its capacity though, so only put your OS and a few choice games on it. This will increase overall performance while leaving your computer less vulnerable to dying due to a failed HDD. This build also includes an extremely High performance 2TB HDD to store music movies and games on. Every plus option aside from multiple GPUs and extra HDDs and RAM from the enthusiast build is included and as an added feature, this one comes with a Bluray burner. The motherboard can take up to 32GB of RAM. This requires 8GB DIMMs which as far as I know do not exist yet. For now I recommend you use 8GB Total and expand later as needed.
Unfortunately due to the size of the motherboard, the options for cases are limited but I picked out one of the best on the market.
As of right now, this is as future proof as it gets.
Spoiler!
About PSUs:
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Power supplies, as has been said before are the heart of your computer. They provide power to your entire system. A low wattage power supply is unable to adequately power a high end GPU and multiple devices.
The results of this can be catastrophic. Best case scenario you blow out the PSU, worst case scenario your CPU and GPU get damaged from erratic power surges or you could even fry your computer.
For this reason, it's important when upgrading your computer to make sure you have a PSU that can adequately power your computer. the minimalist GPUs in a computer don't take much wattage at all and you can easily skate by on a 300w PSU. However Higher end cards can range from 150-250 watts on their own and moreso if you overclock them. That means that you HAVE to get a new PSU if you're adding a performance videocard to a storebought rig and it's strongly recommended that you get a 600w PSU or better if you're building your own.
In addition, PSUs will degrade in capacity over time and with use. So while a PSU may be able to do the work when you first buy it, after a year of usage, that 600w PSU may only be able to provide 530-550w Make sure if you use a PSU calculator that you have it calculate capacitor aging of at least 20% into the final total. I prefer 30% to play it safe. Note that all the rigs I list have had these figures take into acount and still allow for additional HDDs and such to be added with no worry of overloading the system with the included GPU.
Lastly, not all PSUs are the same. Not every company uses quality parts. Sometimes this is reflected in the price, sometimes it's not. DO NOT BUY A CHEAP PSU. They draw way more power than they have to which will run up your electric bill and they are unstable and unreliable which can result in the same thing as having bought a PSU with low wattage. Make sure you buy a PSU with a single 12v rail and that it's ATX/EPS compatible as well as 80+ certified (bronze, silver and gold are even better). I personally like Corsair PSUs. their TX, HX and AX series are top of the line. Other good companies are Seasonic, enermax, xclio, and PC power and cooling. It should be noted that Corsair gets their PSUs from seasonic, so you can't go wrong with either.
Monitors:
Bare in mind the larger the monitor, the harder the video card has to work to provide a steady frame rate. I don't recommend using a screen larger than 24 for gaming unless you're using a high end card like the HD6950
Spoiler!
Keyboard:
Spoiler!
Mouse:
Spoiler!
About Macs:
Spoiler!
About Alienware:
Alienware was bought by dell some years back, assuming their level of quality control and dell's notorious proprietary parts. While you can still install a new GPU in a dell, they overcharge for sub par parts and quite simply you aren't getting the best you can for your money. The best example I can give is my computer cost me less than $1200 to build and it's all around better than a $2000 alienware. You're paying for a brand name - and not a very good one.
More to come soon.
Note about Windows, 64 bit OSes and RAM:
In 32-bit OSes such as Windows XP, memory addressing is unable to use over 4GB of RAM. What this means is if you have 4GB of RAM and 1GB of VRAM, the system will only see 3GB of RAM. In order to use that last GB or ram you need to use a 64-bit OS such as Windows 7 64-bit. As such all builds I will suggest and all computers you buy from a store will come with Windows 7 64-bit. The downside to a 64-bit OS is that some older devices may not be supported and 16-bit programs (such as very old games) will not run. There are some work-arounds for this so feel free to ask if you're unsure. Basically if the game ran in windows 98 or before, it won't work natively in a 64-bit environment. Plan for this accordingly.
On a side note there are 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows Vista and Windows 7. Make sure you get the right one.
If you have any questions, I'll do my best to answer them within reason. Hope this helps.
