For a game like Everquest II, what is better in terms of CPU?

[Lcarvone]

I am helping a friend upgrade his computer and am looking for opinions on CPU choices. I know games like Halo run better with CPUs with larger caches forexample but anyone know about Everquest II?

Cache most important? Pure speed? DirectX performance?

Any input is appreciated

 

[LordPhoenix]

Well. What's his budget? What is he currently using? More info please.

 

[skace]

Don't see why you'd focus on the CPU. I mean, get the best CPU you can get, but you should be focusing on system memory and the video card. All mmorpgs demand tons of memory to handle all the textures being loaded and unloaded as new people/monsters run across your screen.

 

[Bateluer]

I'm running EQ2 on a P4 2.4C, with 1GB of DDR400 RAM, and a 6800GT. I can run the game very well at 1280x1024 with most settings on high. Between the CPU, RAM, and videocard, the CPU would come in last. Having a good Nvidia 6800 series video card and at least a GB of RAM will make EQ2 run very well. Having a decent CPU is just icing. Any fast P4 or A64 combined with a 6800 and a GB of RAM will run EQ2 well.

 

[Griffinhart]

Your two biggest factors for EQ2 are definately the RAM and the Video Board.

1 GB of RAM is highly recommended and a Videoboard with 256MB of RAM is your best choice too. If he can swing a 6800GT + or the ATI equiv, you'll be looking pretty good. Especially with a 3 GHz + intel or an AMD 3000+ (or greater).