How many CPU cores should a gaming computer have?

0 votes
by (120 points)
Could someone elaborate on the role of a CPU core count in enhancing video game performance?

1 Answer

+1 vote
by (550 points)
The number of CPU cores has a varying effect on game performance. CPU cores which are single-threaded are quite useful in single-threaded games, and for multi-threaded games, the patience is spread across multiple cores at the same time. In this way, typically, a CPU with larger number of cores can perform more operations simultaneously which is quite helpful for multitasking as well as intensive tasks. But, for most of the games, between six to eight cores appear to be optimal and, for very many games, even four cores would be sufficient. One should keep core count and the rest of the components of the system in mind while core count is being evaluated with regard to the games.
by (100 points)
The Ryzen 5 6-core chips are still budget kings. The 5600/X is $110($70 if you know where to look) for mid level gaming and the 3600 for $50 is great to pair with 6600 or 7600 GPUs. Add a $17 Thermalright AX120 cooler, $70-$100 B450/B550 mobo, $50 32GB 3200 CL16 RAM and you're set. You can also pick up the 5700X3D for $130(AE) or MC or Neweg bundles with mobo and RAM.
by (110 points)
I'm planning to build a gaming PC mainly for playing strategy and simulation games like The Sims and Crusader Kings, especially because of the unique experience they offer with mods. I’m also interested in older titles like the Harry Potter EA games from the mid-2000s, Mass Effect, and Fallout 3. For games like GTA 6, Call of Duty, and racing games, I'll stick with my PS5.

I see you talk a lot about frame rates, but my question is: do I really need a high-end CPU and graphics card for the types of games I’m interested in? I’ve heard that strategy games like Crusader Kings and The Sims can be CPU-intensive. Should I prioritize a powerful CPU over a top-tier graphics card for my build? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
by (100 points)
My question is, how do these perform for other gaming options? Planet Zoo was the best case for my use as I'd use the processor to manage sim Racing and paradox grand strategy games where lots of calculations are being made all the time. In this case it seems like the Ryzen 9 7900 would be better than the 7 7800X3D as it has more cores? That's how I understood it, whereas the 7 7800X3D would be best for FPS
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