2007 is right around the corner, and with it comes a shit load of cool games for the PC. In my previous post I talked about the PC games I wanted to get. Some of these games are next-gen and of course will require next-gen hardware to get the full effects (I'm looking at you Crysis). So it makes my wallet (and Jenny) cry when it comes time to upgrade my computer.

Below is a list of three items that I need to get before the new gaming season is upon us. These are really just items that I need to get. Yeah, I'm not looking forward to paying for these items, but they are going to be necessities for any hardcore PC gamer. So once Christmas is over it'll be time to start saving up for them. The rest of the hardware in my computer is good and should be able to handle most anything I throw at it, but these next three items need to be upgraded. So let's see what we got.

1. Windows Vista

I plan on getting Vista for a few reasons, but main reason is for DirectX 10 (DX10). I'm going to get Vista Home Premium for around $230. I'm getting the full version and not the upgrade because, well, because I hate upgrades. Even though the new OS is supposed to be a file-based install, I'd still like to have the full install CD/DVD just in case. Of course Vista comes with other perks including increased performance and security over Windows XP.

Honestly, if you want next-gen games to run on your PC and look good while doing it, I suggest the upgrade to Windows Vista. But of course you better have the hardware to back it up.

2. Nvidia Geforce 8800 GTX

Oiu. This one seriously hurts my wallet. I always dread the day when I have to buy a new video card. It usually requires a few months of saving and then the feeling of guilt right after you buy it. But once you get that card installed and setup, then see all of its horsepower and glory, you'll smile and possibly shed a tear.

Nvidia's new cards, the Geforce 8800 series, looks to do that to me. So you got Vista and its support of DX10, but of course you'll need a video card that also supports DX10. The 8800 is the first card to retail to support DX10. Several reviews have poured in (including this one from CNET) and everyone seems to love it.

Of course a top of the line video card is going to cost you top of the line money. Right now the 8800 GTX runs for around $600. That's pretty standard for new cards. Hopefully in the next few months that price will lower a little bit. Then I'll swoop in and pick one up. Or if the price stays the same I'll just have to work a little bit harder to get one.

3. WD Raptor 10,000 RPM hard drive

What good is a fast OS when it pulls from a slow hard drive? I currently have a 7,200 RPM SATA drive and when I get Vista I also plan on getting the Raptor hard drive. With a 10,000 RPM drive I will see an increase in speed when it comes to loading Windows, games, game levels, etc.

Currently, a 74GB Raptor drive runs for around $160. This will be the cheapest thing when it comes time to upgrade, but is a needed update that I should of done when I originally built my computer.

So that's that. I don't plan on buying all these parts at the same time. I'll probably first get the Raptor hard drive sometime next month. Then I'll get Vista sometime in February. Finally, I'll be picking up the Geforce 8800 probably around the time Crysis is released (March, April, May?). At least all of my Christmas shopping is done and I can start saving. Joy!