What PC do I need for Fortnite, Warzone, Minecraft, GTA, Valorant or Cyberpunk?

Every game asks a different amount from your PC. Some run on almost anything. Others need a strong graphics card. Here is what each popular game needs, in plain words, so you do not pay for more than you need, or end up with too little.

The graphics card is the part that draws the picture in a game. It matters more than anything else. Some PCs have built-in graphics, which means the graphics are part of the processor and there is no separate card. That is cheaper, but much less powerful.

Fortnite

Fortnite is made to run on lots of different machines, from consoles to older PCs. With low settings it plays on built-in graphics. If you want it to look sharp and stay smooth in busy fights, a mid-range graphics card makes a big difference. Many players also want a high refresh rate, which means the picture updates more times each second. That needs a graphics card too.

Valorant

Valorant is one of the lightest popular games. It is built to run fast rather than look fancy. Built-in graphics can play it at low settings. A budget graphics card lets it run very smoothly, which matters in a fast shooting game.

Minecraft

Normal Minecraft is light and plays well on most PCs. Things change if you add mods (add-ons made by players) or shaders (add-ons that add realistic light and shadow). Shaders in particular need a proper graphics card. If your child loves shaders, plan for a mid-range card.

GTA V

GTA V has been around a long time, so it is less demanding than the newest games. It still needs a separate graphics card to look good. A mid-range card plays it well at 1080p. The online side, GTA Online, is very popular and needs the same.

Call of Duty: Warzone

Warzone is a big game with large maps and lots of players. It needs a proper graphics card. A mid-range card is fine at 1080p. For 1440p, or for very smooth play on a fast screen, go for a strong graphics card. Warzone also takes up a lot of storage space and has frequent large updates.

Cyberpunk 2077

Cyberpunk 2077 is one of the hardest games you can run on a PC. It has detailed cities and lots of lighting effects. To enjoy it, you need a strong graphics card. At 1440p, or with the most realistic lighting turned on, you need a high-end one. If Cyberpunk is on your list, it should decide which PC you buy.

The simple rule

Buy for the hardest game you want to play. A PC that runs Cyberpunk well will run everything else on this page. Your screen matters too: a bigger, sharper screen needs a stronger graphics card. Read 1080p, 1440p or 4K to see how. If money is tight, see the best gaming PCs for under £800, or think about buying refurbished.

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