Do i only need a graphics card?

kylr647

Reputable
Feb 15, 2014
5
0
4,510
I want to be able to play PC games from this decade. While it is rather old and not designed for gaming, my PC can play some older games (like spore and sims 2). I often use the system requirements lab "can you run it?" feature to determine if i can play a game or not on my computer. According to the website, all i need is a new graphics card to play modern games at minimum level. I'm wondering if this is all i need to play games successfully? My specs are:
CPU: Intel(R) Core(TM)2 Quad CPU Q6600 @ 2.40GHz
RAM: 3.3 GB (newer games run better on more RAM)
Sound Card: Realtek High Definition Audio
Current Video Card: Intel(R) G33/G31 Express Chipset Family(came with the computer)
I'm rather strapped for cash and figured I'd pay for one of the cheaper RADEON cards, considering i've heard positive things. I just want to know if that's all i need
 
Solution
it looks to be very 'office oriented' build and has only pcie x1 slots if this info is right:
http://www.dell.com/us/dfh/p/inspiron-518/pd
there aren't any reasonable graphics cards with x1 bus available afaik...

edit
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814161354
HD5450 1GB passive for $70
would probably run with the psu you currently have in the system since it uses very little power and while it would be faster than the integrated it is not a gaming card by any means and the price is rather high for the performance offered... It is up to you if you wanna give it a shot, I prob wouldn't. :/

kylr647

Reputable
Feb 15, 2014
5
0
4,510


I can't find the wattage and don't know how to find the other two. I have a dell insiron 518.
 

Kari

Splendid
it looks to be very 'office oriented' build and has only pcie x1 slots if this info is right:
http://www.dell.com/us/dfh/p/inspiron-518/pd
there aren't any reasonable graphics cards with x1 bus available afaik...

edit
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814161354
HD5450 1GB passive for $70
would probably run with the psu you currently have in the system since it uses very little power and while it would be faster than the integrated it is not a gaming card by any means and the price is rather high for the performance offered... It is up to you if you wanna give it a shot, I prob wouldn't. :/
 
Solution

kylr647

Reputable
Feb 15, 2014
5
0
4,510


I had no idea that was an option. I'll google some DIY guides. Thank you so much. I was ready to just but a graphics card.