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Casual to Intense Gaming: Can You Game Without a Graphics Card?
Gaming typically requires substantial processing power to display high-resolution, high-quality images, which is where graphics cards (GPUs) come into play. However, not all games demand the level of performance that modern GPUs provide. In fact, there are a few surprising examples of games running on some very random devices, showing that it’s possible to game without a dedicated graphics card.
Here are some mind-blowing examples of popular games running on unusual devices:
Doom: This classic first-person shooter has been famously run on a TI-83 calculator—yes, the same calculator you used in high school math class.
Tetris: One of the world’s most iconic puzzle games has been played on an ATM machine. Talk about an unconventional gaming experience!
Flappy Bird: The addictive mobile game that took the world by storm has been run on a microwave. While you’re waiting for your popcorn, you can also sneak in a quick game!
Quake: This 90s first-person shooter was also run on a graphing calculator, pushing the limits of what you’d expect from such a tiny screen.
Granted, these games are quite old and have been optimized over the years to not require high-end hardware. But the fact that they can run on unexpected devices without a dedicated graphics card shows just how versatile a CPU can be for basic gaming.
CPU vs. GPU for Gaming: What You Need for Serious Gaming
While are powerful in their own right, they often struggle with high-quality graphics and complex gaming experiences. The reason? CPUs are optimized for general tasks, while GPUs are specifically built for parallel processing of graphics and rendering.
If you’re looking to play more graphically demanding games (like AAA titles, VR, or high-end simulations), a dedicated graphics card is almost always required. The CPU’s lower core count and focus on multi-purpose tasks simply can’t match the power and efficiency of a high-performance GPU when it comes to gaming.
So, while it’s cool to know that games like Doom or Tetris can run on a calculator, if you’re serious about gaming at a high level, you’ll need a graphics card to get the best experience.
Which Graphics Card Will You Need? A Breakdown Based on Your Needs
The graphics card you choose largely depends on three key factors: performance, power efficiency, and compatibility with your system. Different users have different needs, so choosing the right GPU for your specific use case is essential.
Keep in mind that as the performance of a graphics card increases, so does its power consumption. High-performance GPUs tend to be more power-hungry, but they also offer top-tier performance for tasks like gaming, video editing, and 3D rendering. In this case we’re focusing on gaming.
To make it easier for you, we’ve broken down our recommendations for graphics cards based on various performance levels. Whether you’re a casual gamer, a content creator, or a professional working with advanced graphics, there’s a GPU that will suit your needs.
Budget gaming graphics card
If you’re into casual gaming or you’re just getting started with PC gaming, you don’t need to break the bank on a high-end graphics card. There are plenty of budget-friendly options that can still deliver a solid 1080p gaming experience. These GPUs are perfect for older titles or less demanding games, and they’ll let you enjoy smooth gameplay without needing a monster graphics card.
Recommended GPUs:
NVIDIA GTX 1650 – A popular choice for budget-conscious gamers looking to play 1080p games at medium settings. It’s great for older titles or less demanding games.
AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT – A fantastic entry-level option that offers solid 1080p gaming performance with great power efficiency, perfect for light gaming and esports titles like League of Legends or Fortnite.
Games it can run: Minecraft, Rocket League, or Fortnite, or even some older AAA games with settings turned down.
Recommended PSU:
GTX 1650: 300W+
AMD RADEON RX 6500 XT: 400W+
Purchase here | £195 Purchase here | £179.95
Mid-Range Gaming graphics card
If you’re ready to take your gaming experience to the next level with higher settings and better performance in more modern titles, a mid-range graphics card is the sweet spot. These GPUs can handle 1080p and even 1440p gaming with smooth frame rates, and they provide a good balance between price and performance.
Recommended GPUs:
NVIDIA RTX 3060 Ti – Excellent for 1440p gaming, capable of handling newer titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Assassin’s Creed Valhalla at high settings with ray tracing support.
AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT – A solid choice for high-refresh 1080p and 1440p gaming. It’s perfect for demanding games like Call of Duty: Warzone or Red Dead Redemption 2 at ultra settings.
Games it can run: Far Cry 6, Watch Dogs: Legion, or Forza Horizon 5 at high settings and 1440p resolution.
Recommended PSU:
NVIDIA RTX 3060 TI: 600W-750W
AMD Radeon RX 7600 XT: 550W – 650W
Purchase here | £409.00 Purchase here | £603.00
High-End Gaming graphics card
If you’re ready to experience 4K gaming, high frame rates, and ray tracing without compromise, you’ll need a high-end GPU. These cards are built for next-gen gaming, allowing you to enjoy the latest and most demanding titles in all their visual glory. Whether you’re running Cyberpunk 2077, Battlefield 2042, or Control with ultra settings and ray tracing, these GPUs will deliver smooth, breathtaking performance.
Recommended GPUs:
NVIDIA RTX 4080 – Ideal for 4K gaming and ray tracing at ultra settings. You can play demanding titles like Dying Light 2, Cyberpunk 2077, and Horizon Zero Dawn with incredible visuals and frame rates.
XFX 7900 GRE – A powerhouse that excels in 4K gaming and high-refresh 1440p gaming. It’s a great choice for gamers who want to experience ultra settings in titles like Starfield and Far Cry 5 without sacrificing performance.
Perfect For: Cyberpunk 2077, Metro Exodus, or Control in 4k, high quality settings.
PSU Recommendation:
Nvidia RTX 4080: 750W-1000W
XFX 7900 GRE: 850W-1000W
Purchase here | £1003.00 Purchase here | £545.00
Ultra High-End Gaming graphics card
For those who want to future-proof their gaming PC and experience the ultimate in graphics and performance, ultra high-end GPUs are the top choice. These GPUs aren’t just about 4K—they can push the boundaries of 8K gaming, handle intensive VR experiences, and run cutting-edge simulations. These cards are meant for gamers who want to run next-gen titles at maximum settings for years to come.
Recommended GPUs:
NVIDIA RTX 4090 – The king of the hill when it comes to gaming performance, offering 8K gaming, VR support, and ray tracing with no compromises. Perfect for the most demanding games and content creation workflows.
AMD Radeon RX 7900 XTX – Another ultra-high-end option, designed for high-fidelity 4K gaming with ray tracing and cutting-edge technologies. It’s great for gamers looking for the best performance in AAA titles and future-proofing their rigs.
Games it can run: Ideal for the most demanding next-gen titles and immersive experiences. Is undoubtable future proof, and the best performers in the current market.
PSU Recommendation:
Nvidia RTX 4090: 850W – 1200W
AMD Radeon RX 7900 XTX: 750W – 1000W
Purchase here | £3500.00 Purchase here | £840.00
Important points before purchasing:
- Price doesn’t always equal performance
- New graphics card such as the 5070 have 4090 performance at the fraction of the price, it may be worth the wait.
- Nvidia usually costs more as a result of superior ray tracing, software and driver ecosystem, power efficiency and proprietary technology.
- Amazon wont always have best prices, shop the market.
