CPU Cores for Gaming: How many do you need? - Q1 2015 Update

The video examines how many CPU cores are actually needed for modern gaming as of early 2015, testing a range of configurations from dual-core without hyperthreading up to octa-core with hyperthreading. The host uses a high-end test bench featuring an overclocked 5960x, 32 GB DDR4 RAM, and a GTX 980 to simulate real gaming scenarios and to compare performance across core counts. Across several recent titles like Cities Skylines, GTA 5, Dying Light, Total War Attila, Tomb Raider, and Far Cry 4, the tests reveal that Cities Skylines benefits from more cores to a point, but performance gains taper off beyond a quad or hex core depending on the game. Dying Light shows similar trends with some variability between 1080p and 4K, while Total War Atilla demonstrates that higher core counts can yield noticeable, though often modest, improvements during intensive battles. Tomb Raider and Far Cry 4 generally show less sensitivity to additional cores, with Far Cry 4 sometimes failing to launch on dual-core configurations due to DRM or game requirements. The conclusion emphasizes that while extra cores can help for multitasking, video rendering, or streaming, a modern gaming rig does not require more than a quad-core for solid performance, and a capable dual-core can still suffice for many titles. The video closes with a call for audience input on future testing directions, such as running benchmarks while performing other tasks or streaming, and briefly plugs partner products and the channel community forum.

Topics · Technology · Gaming · Computing