New Gaming Computer

[Microtomer]

Hello,

I've never built my own computer before, but I think I could handle it. I was wondering if building it myself is really that much cheaper or if there is another benefit?

Second, I was wondering what kind of set up people would recommend for a casual gamer. Games like Starcraft 2 and Diablo 3 when they come out. Maybe bioshock 2 or something. I don't really care about highest quality, just as long as it runs smoothly.
I was hoping to spend around $1,200.

 

[BillOhio]

I'm a noob who's been looking to build at about that same price range. Before any taxes or shipping the list below comes in at $1167 and seems like a little bit of a horse. There might be a few bucks you could save on a lesser heatsink, especially if you don't plan to overclock. Also, the case is an above average case and you can find less expensive options. I know that Microcenter sells the Antec 300 for $50 and from there you can get whatever hard drive you choose (the drive I listed is part of a combo). This combo features the same drive with a lesser case and would take the build down to $1122. If any of the regulars here see a flaw I hope they'll post it as I've started buying this parts list myself (except for a different psu).

i7 930 at Microcenter: $200

Gigabyte GA-x58a-udr3 WITH Microsoft Windows 7 New Eggg Combo: $289

ASUS 5850 Card WITH 6GB OCZ DDR 3 Ram New Egg Combo: $495

Antec 900 Two Case WITH Seagate Barracuda 7200 rpm 500 GB HDD New Egg Combo: $115

OCZ 600W recertified PSU from SVC.com $39

Sony Optiarc DVD from New Egg: $19

Thermalright Venomous X Heatsink Plus Fan from Ewiz.com: $55

Total : $1167

Edit: Originally I listed the build at $1187, but then noticed a $20 rebate on the case/HD combo.

Before paying any attention to the list though, I'd wait and see what the local Gurus around here have to say.

 

[Microtomer]

Thanks!

I was still wondering about my first question though, I heard that there is no longer such a large price gap in building your own and buying one put together.