Best Computer Game Reviews

Wize Buying Guide for Computer Games

Since the dawn of the computer, one thing has united the generations who use it: computer games, from spider solitaire and ski free to Myst, The Sims and World of Warcraft. All computers have some gaming capacity, and most computer games are made for both PC and Mac. When you're shopping for computer games, all you really have to consider is what it is you want to play, whether it's compatible with your system and how to optimize performance when you game. Pretty simple, but here are some guidelines to get you started.

Compatibility

Unlike video games, which are made for specific systems, many computer games are made in different versions to be compatible with many operating systems. Make sure you're getting the right version for your PC or Mac, and check to see if your computer meets the minimum performance requirements necessary for running the game. Some of the most common requirements:

• Video Card – most computer games today require fast video cards. Recommended video cards include Radeon HD 3870 X2 and nVida GeForce 8800 GTX.

• RAM – depending on the game you're buying, there's a good chance you'll need a lot of RAM: at the very least, you'll need 512 MB, but 1 GB or more is better.

• Computer Speed – 2 GHz or faster is recommended.

• Computer Operating System – for PCs, you'll likely need XP or Vista; for Macs, OS9 or OS10

• Hard Drive – 7200 rpm is recommended

Types of games and ratings

A number of companies make and sell computer games, including Windows, EA, Microsoft, Atari, Ubisoft, 2K games, ASPYR and Activision. Especially if you're purchasing computer games for kids, consider what type of game you want: does your kid want an action/adventure game like Lord of the Rings, or something that challenges their logic and problem-solving, like Bookworm Deluxe? Are you buying for another adult who wants a first-person shooter game like Tom Clancy Rainbow Six, or do your grown-up friends prefer an interactive fantasy game like World of Warcraft? Here are a few of the most common categories:

• Puzzles
  

• Children

• Preschool

• Education

• War

• Sports

• Strategy

• Racing

• Simulation

• Classics

• Role playing
  

Again, if you are buying a computer game for kids, it is important to check the rating system:

• E – Everyone

• E10 – 10 years old plus

• T – Teenagers

• M – Mature

• EC – Early Childhood

• A – Adult

Accessories

For the most enjoyable computer gaming experience possible, you may want to invest in some accessories. A joystick can sometimes be imperative; a wireless joystick is your best bet. For racing and simulation games, steering wheels and foot pedals come in handy. In general, it is helpful to have a wireless keyboard and mouse, a good pair of headphones, speakers and a built-in or auxillary microphone.

A few more important details remain before you make your final computer game purchase and go home to have some fun.