Is My Game Development PC Build Overkill or Just Right?

That build is pretty solid, but you might not need all that power right away. Game engines like Unity and Unreal can run fine on less. Focusing on a strong CPU is key, especially for build times. You could even consider dropping down to a 32GB RAM setup unless you’re doing heavy 3D modeling. If cost is a concern, a GPU like the 3070 is great for most game dev tasks and is cheaper than the 5080. Also, think about switching to a high-end air cooler instead of that AIO—similar performance but fewer potential issues!

Instead of the 5080, consider the 5070 TI. It’s less expensive, has similar VRAM, and the performance difference isn’t huge. As for the CPU, you’ve got a great one for gaming, but if you need more cores, the 9950X3D might be worth looking at. Just keep in mind that AMD's socket longevity is a big plus over Intel's historically tighter upgrade cycles.

The Crucial P3 Plus uses QLC flash, which can slow down over time and isn't the most durable. I’d recommend something like the Kioxia Exceria Plus G3 or a WD Blue SN580 instead for better longevity.

I lean towards Intel for game development, especially when it comes to animation. More cores and threads can really help. Everything else looks fine, but do double-check compatibility between your RAM, motherboard, and CPU to avoid headaches later. Also, the prices do seem a bit high—any thoughts on what to change to cut down costs?