Gaming PC build for under $1000 - advice?

Posted by mondeca on September 23, 2012 03:14 pm 41

I've been out of the PC gaming world for a few years, and I think it's time to get back in. I haven't researched parts in a while, so I could use some advice. I'm not looking to build a top-of-the-line rig that gets more FPSes than the Joneses, but I would like to play the games the Joneses play and feel like I'm getting a good bang-for-the-buck.

I'm 75% sure I'm not going to build it myself - I'll probably order pre-built online (ibuypower.com or similar), but either way I go, I need a parts list.

Here's what I'm looking for:

$800 - $1000: I already have a monitor/keyboard/mouse, so no need to include those.

Intel CPU/Nvidia GPU: Just personal preference. I have had bad luck with AMD in the past. Not planning to SLI.

SSD instead of hard drive: Only going to be used for gaming, so I don't need a lot of capacity.

Games: Definitely going to start with Star Wars: The Old Republic and FTL, but I'll probably want to play Starcraft 2 at some point.

Case/Mobo/Power: I have no idea. That's why I'm here. Also, however much RAM is appropriate.

Quiet: Willing to throw some dollars at keeping the noise down.

So, what's a good build? Thanks in advance!