So this is my first build which has a budget of $800-900, but I can go slightly over $900 with your advice.
I already have the peripherals (mouse, monitor, keyboard, etc) and already have Windows 7 64bit, plus old hard drive I will use to slave. I normally only play Blizzard games, but also try out other demanding games @ 1920 X1080.
Fun fact: My wal-mart computer of ten years with minor upgrades finally gave out. Instead of replacing the power supply I think it's time to just junk the computer and get a new one. So I want something that can not only handle the lowest settings in the game like I'm use to but can also conquer the highest settings or at least try to! I will be purchasing this build in less than a week and hopefully incorporate some ideas...Please help this cheapskate!
PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks
CPU: Intel Core i5-3570K 3.4GHz Quad-Core Processor ($214.99 @ Amazon)
CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO 82.9 CFM Sleeve Bearing CPU Cooler ($32.98 @ Amazon)
Motherboard: ASRock Z77 Extreme4 ATX LGA1155 Motherboard ($134.99 @ Amazon)
Memory: Corsair 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($39.00 @ Amazon)
Storage: Samsung 840 Series 120GB 2.5" Solid State Disk ($94.99 @ Amazon)
Video Card: MSI GeForce GTX 660 Ti 2GB Video Card ($303.13 @ Amazon)
Case: Rosewill CHALLENGER ATX Mid Tower Case ($46.99 @ Amazon)
Power Supply: XFX 550W 80 PLUS Bronze Certified ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply ($69.98 @ Newegg)
Optical Drive: Samsung SH-224BB DVD/CD Writer ($17.99 @ Newegg)
Total: $955.04
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2013-03-03 11:41 EST-0500)
Is this a solid build or should I get something else instead? Thanks again!