I'm planning to switch from console to PC gaming, but I'm not sure how to choose the right parts or how much RAM and graphics power I need. The main games I'm interested in are Marvel Rivals and Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls. I currently play on an Xbox Series S, so 1080p would be fine, although being able to play at 4K would be a nice bonus. My budget is around $2,000, and I could spend more if there's a good reason. What kind of specifications or prebuilt systems should I be looking at?
3 Answers
Neither game is especially demanding compared with the most graphically intensive PC releases, so you don’t need an extreme high-end build. Looking at completed builds and their prices can help you understand what your money can get. For a modern system, 16 GB of RAM is workable, but 32 GB is a better choice for a new gaming PC. A recent six- or eight-core processor, a dedicated graphics card with at least 8 GB of VRAM, and a 1 TB SSD would give you a comfortable 1080p experience with room to upgrade later.
The biggest detail is your target resolution. A $2,000 budget is more than enough for a strong 1080p or 1440p gaming PC, and it can also cover 4K if you prioritize the graphics card. I’d generally recommend aiming for 1440p rather than building specifically for 4K, since it looks sharper than 1080p while being much easier to run than 4K. Make sure the power supply and case have room for future upgrades instead of spending the entire budget on the GPU.
If you’re considering a prebuilt, compare the full parts list rather than judging it by the processor or graphics card alone. Check that it has dual-channel memory, enough cooling, a reputable power supply, and an NVMe SSD. Avoid systems with only 8 GB of RAM, integrated graphics, or vague power-supply specifications. You could also have a local shop assemble a parts list, which may give you better-quality components than a flashy prebuilt at the same price.
I’m used to playing on a Series S, so I’m assuming I’d start at 1080p, but 4K would definitely be nice if the budget allows it. I’m willing to spend around $2,000 and could go higher if necessary.