Dual-Core or Quad-Core for running multiple games at once

So I have recently found a buyer for my old processor Core 2 2.2ghz and now and looking around to upgrade my processor for something with VT support. I know that the general rule is that higher clocked dual cores will outperform lower clocked quad cores in gaming. However this is only makes the assumption that you are gaming with a single game running.


What I intend to do is run multiple games at once such as Draconica, WoW, Mabinogi and Aion. I am still wondering whether this rule will still apply.

My current build is a Radeon HD4830 and 4gigs of DDR2 800 4-4-4 and I am limited to a socket 775 with FSB support of 800-1333mhz. My budget is $180 but if possible to reduce this amount it would be preferred since I am reusing my old rig so who knows if I will hand it down to my brother in a year or two.

I am currently looking at the Intel Core 2 Duo E8400 Wolfdale or Intel Core 2 Quad Q8400. If anyone else would have any recommendations or comments to throw out it would be greatly appreciated.

Also I am limited in the retailers since I do not have a microcenter near me or even a car for that matter so all orders must be done online. I am currently browsing Newegg, Tigerdirect, Zipzoomfly (unfortunately Newegg and ZZF charge CA tax   )