building gamedev pc
I would like to build a game development studio.
Should I use Linux? Mac? Windows 2000? Windows XP?
How about Torque or DarkBasic?
Should I just grab me an awesome AlienWare desktop? or an Apple G5?
I really want some educated opinions. So please comment (intelligently). I don't mind biases, cause I'll just sift through them for the goods.
Thanks for your recommendations!
Alienware is nice (if you can afford it which I can't hope too any time soon)
~BUT~ you'd prolly be tempted to play new games on it
windows is always the best choice.........I dont know much about linux
who the hell works on a mac XD all thier good for is things like illistrator and photoshop(and they still crash)
I tryed darkbasic and liked it at first but gave it up to start learning c++
dark can't really make comercial games but good for demos or quickys or 2d's (up to u really)
I have no idea about anything torque
I hope you can find something usefull out of this mess ^__^
~BUT~ you'd prolly be tempted to play new games on it
windows is always the best choice.........I dont know much about linux
who the hell works on a mac XD all thier good for is things like illistrator and photoshop(and they still crash)
I tryed darkbasic and liked it at first but gave it up to start learning c++
dark can't really make comercial games but good for demos or quickys or 2d's (up to u really)
I have no idea about anything torque
I hope you can find something usefull out of this mess ^__^
I think you need to determine what your long term goals are here, and most importantly how long before you might want to next upgrade (no point in buying a system that'll take you 3yrs to master only to replace it in 2yrs).
For example, if you're only just starting out on graphics there is probably no need for a GeForce 6x00 as it'll be quite a while before you're at a level good enough to make full use of it. It might be better if you save some money on that front, and then upgrade/replace it later on when you are actually capable of making use of it.
Also, do you have any software currently? you might well want to skimp a bit on the hardware (go for middle rather than top range) so that you can afford some decent software. I'd say there's an argument that good software is more important than good hardware when it comes to education.
hth
Jack
For example, if you're only just starting out on graphics there is probably no need for a GeForce 6x00 as it'll be quite a while before you're at a level good enough to make full use of it. It might be better if you save some money on that front, and then upgrade/replace it later on when you are actually capable of making use of it.
Also, do you have any software currently? you might well want to skimp a bit on the hardware (go for middle rather than top range) so that you can afford some decent software. I'd say there's an argument that good software is more important than good hardware when it comes to education.
hth
Jack
Which platforms are you targetting? Which technologies do you want to use?
I wouldn't bother with the AlienWare. I don't know any developers who use them.
I wouldn't bother with the AlienWare. I don't know any developers who use them.
Thank you for your replies so far.
As far as gamedev experience, I have never completed a game project. As far as graphics experience, I have been there and done basic 3D graphics (don't have any on my current website). I've successfully created one video project (did 100% writing, music, animation, audio editing, and final product).
My goal is to produce a professional-looking prototype. One the emphasises is rich graphics, music, and freeform interactivity all in realtime 3D. I expect to require a fairly high-end graphics system.
I don't want to overspend $$$ but I don't want to sacrifice any 'oohs' or 'aahs' when my game loads up. I'm not trying to push the computer system as much as I'm intending to push game design and style.
Please continue to comment.
Thanks,
As far as gamedev experience, I have never completed a game project. As far as graphics experience, I have been there and done basic 3D graphics (don't have any on my current website). I've successfully created one video project (did 100% writing, music, animation, audio editing, and final product).
My goal is to produce a professional-looking prototype. One the emphasises is rich graphics, music, and freeform interactivity all in realtime 3D. I expect to require a fairly high-end graphics system.
I don't want to overspend $$$ but I don't want to sacrifice any 'oohs' or 'aahs' when my game loads up. I'm not trying to push the computer system as much as I'm intending to push game design and style.
Please continue to comment.
Thanks,
GameDev machine ha, well first off don't waste your money on and Alienware when you can build your own PC for so much cheaper. Basically you are looking for a number cruncher. A processor thats fast and memory thats quick, my suggestions..
( if you were going to buy an alienware machine, you can afford this )
Programmers:
CPU: AMD Opteron 246 SledgeHammer 400MHz FSB Socket 940 Processor Model
Memeory: CORSAIR XMS 2GB (2 x 1GB) 184-Pin DDR SDRAM DDR 400 (PC 3200) Cas Latency: 2
Graphics card not important, your prgramming now deesiging, so don't waste your money on an expensive one.
Aluminum case HIGHLY suggested, keep that processor cool. Grab a big case a very big one that will give your CPU a lot of space to get all the cool air your fans are producing.
If you get a full tower I suggest at least 4-5 fans to keep that CPU running at around 35-40 degrees celius ( possibly lower ). The rest of the PC is the fundamental stuff and my biggest suggestion is to build your own.
Animator:
( This could quite possibly be endless, only few suggestions I have is this:
1. Stick with and AMD 64 bit processor like the FX. Don't bother with the the Dual Core Opteron's, they are not graphic CPU's.
2. Lots of memory, if you have the money go for a cool 3 - 4 gb, a lil overboard but hell never know when you may endup using it.
3. Lots of hardrive space, saving the files will require a ton of it, I'm thinking in the 300 - 400 gb range.
4. IMPORTANT! Dual Monitors, once you go dual as an animator you will never want a single monitor again, if you can afford 2 17 - 21 inch LSD's nice.
Water kooling, since that CPU is practically going to get the shit kicked out of it, I would suggest it only because this would be a graphic intensive PC. Go with a good brand of Water Cooling thought, so there is no leakage.
5. Have fun cause both of these machines would be my dream machine.
( if you were going to buy an alienware machine, you can afford this )
Programmers:
CPU: AMD Opteron 246 SledgeHammer 400MHz FSB Socket 940 Processor Model
Memeory: CORSAIR XMS 2GB (2 x 1GB) 184-Pin DDR SDRAM DDR 400 (PC 3200) Cas Latency: 2
Graphics card not important, your prgramming now deesiging, so don't waste your money on an expensive one.
Aluminum case HIGHLY suggested, keep that processor cool. Grab a big case a very big one that will give your CPU a lot of space to get all the cool air your fans are producing.
If you get a full tower I suggest at least 4-5 fans to keep that CPU running at around 35-40 degrees celius ( possibly lower ). The rest of the PC is the fundamental stuff and my biggest suggestion is to build your own.
Animator:
( This could quite possibly be endless, only few suggestions I have is this:
1. Stick with and AMD 64 bit processor like the FX. Don't bother with the the Dual Core Opteron's, they are not graphic CPU's.
2. Lots of memory, if you have the money go for a cool 3 - 4 gb, a lil overboard but hell never know when you may endup using it.
3. Lots of hardrive space, saving the files will require a ton of it, I'm thinking in the 300 - 400 gb range.
4. IMPORTANT! Dual Monitors, once you go dual as an animator you will never want a single monitor again, if you can afford 2 17 - 21 inch LSD's nice.
Water kooling, since that CPU is practically going to get the shit kicked out of it, I would suggest it only because this would be a graphic intensive PC. Go with a good brand of Water Cooling thought, so there is no leakage.
5. Have fun cause both of these machines would be my dream machine.
GameDev machine ha, well first off don't waste your money on and Alienware when you can build your own PC for so much cheaper. Basically you are looking for a number cruncher. A processor thats fast and memory thats quick, my suggestions..
( if you were going to buy an alienware machine, you can afford this )
Programmers:
CPU: AMD Opteron 246 SledgeHammer 400MHz FSB Socket 940 Processor Model
Memeory: CORSAIR XMS 2GB (2 x 1GB) 184-Pin DDR SDRAM DDR 400 (PC 3200) Cas Latency: 2
Graphics card not important, your prgramming now deesiging, so don't waste your money on an expensive one.
Aluminum case HIGHLY suggested, keep that processor cool. Grab a big case a very big one that will give your CPU a lot of space to get all the cool air your fans are producing.
If you get a full tower I suggest at least 4-5 fans to keep that CPU running at around 35-40 degrees celius ( possibly lower ). The rest of the PC is the fundamental stuff and my biggest suggestion is to build your own.
Animator:
( This could quite possibly be endless, only few suggestions I have is this:
1. Stick with and AMD 64 bit processor like the FX. Don't bother with the the Dual Core Opteron's, they are not graphic CPU's.
2. Lots of memory, if you have the money go for a cool 3 - 4 gb, a lil overboard but hell never know when you may endup using it.
3. Lots of hardrive space, saving the files will require a ton of it, I'm thinking in the 300 - 400 gb range.
4. IMPORTANT! Dual Monitors, once you go dual as an animator you will never want a single monitor again, if you can afford 2 17 - 21 inch LSD's nice.
Water kooling, since that CPU is practically going to get the shit kicked out of it, I would suggest it only because this would be a graphic intensive PC. Go with a good brand of Water Cooling thought, so there is no leakage.
5. Have fun cause both of these machines would be my dream machine.
EDIT: Sorry didnt't get logged in above..!
( if you were going to buy an alienware machine, you can afford this )
Programmers:
CPU: AMD Opteron 246 SledgeHammer 400MHz FSB Socket 940 Processor Model
Memeory: CORSAIR XMS 2GB (2 x 1GB) 184-Pin DDR SDRAM DDR 400 (PC 3200) Cas Latency: 2
Graphics card not important, your prgramming now deesiging, so don't waste your money on an expensive one.
Aluminum case HIGHLY suggested, keep that processor cool. Grab a big case a very big one that will give your CPU a lot of space to get all the cool air your fans are producing.
If you get a full tower I suggest at least 4-5 fans to keep that CPU running at around 35-40 degrees celius ( possibly lower ). The rest of the PC is the fundamental stuff and my biggest suggestion is to build your own.
Animator:
( This could quite possibly be endless, only few suggestions I have is this:
1. Stick with and AMD 64 bit processor like the FX. Don't bother with the the Dual Core Opteron's, they are not graphic CPU's.
2. Lots of memory, if you have the money go for a cool 3 - 4 gb, a lil overboard but hell never know when you may endup using it.
3. Lots of hardrive space, saving the files will require a ton of it, I'm thinking in the 300 - 400 gb range.
4. IMPORTANT! Dual Monitors, once you go dual as an animator you will never want a single monitor again, if you can afford 2 17 - 21 inch LSD's nice.
Water kooling, since that CPU is practically going to get the shit kicked out of it, I would suggest it only because this would be a graphic intensive PC. Go with a good brand of Water Cooling thought, so there is no leakage.
5. Have fun cause both of these machines would be my dream machine.
EDIT: Sorry didnt't get logged in above..!
Quote:Original post by _jinx_
Programmers:
Graphics card not important, your prgramming now deesiging, so don't waste your money on an expensive one.
and he's going to test his fancy new graphics code using what, hrm? I know what you're saying, it should take a lower priority, but he'll need at least reasonable graphics capabilities simply so he'll be able to run what he's producing and test it.
Im speaking in terms of a nice graphics card, simply a nice ATI Radeon 9800 will do the job, but I'm talking about spending $300 - $$$ much money really no point.
It seems like you have a lot of money to spend - so the trick is what to spend it on. This is what I would do:
2 computers:
------------
- 1 development machine
- 1 target minimum spec. machine (cheaper computer)
- 2 or more monitors for the devlopment machine. The more space the better for a programmer
- Purchase a legit copy of your favourite devlopment studio
- Buy some books on the subject
- If you need any other software such as a 3d Engine, animation software - BUY IT
-------------------------------------------------------------
My advice is to buy what you can. Don't be stuck with just one mega computer and let hacked software do the rest. That's if you are a serious developer of course.
2 computers:
------------
- 1 development machine
- 1 target minimum spec. machine (cheaper computer)
- 2 or more monitors for the devlopment machine. The more space the better for a programmer
- Purchase a legit copy of your favourite devlopment studio
- Buy some books on the subject
- If you need any other software such as a 3d Engine, animation software - BUY IT
-------------------------------------------------------------
My advice is to buy what you can. Don't be stuck with just one mega computer and let hacked software do the rest. That's if you are a serious developer of course.
This topic is closed to new replies.
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