New PC gaming & graphics help

[davo]

Hi guys,

I'm new here and would appreciate some basic help with a new PC. I would classify myself as a PC enthusiast, but not hardcore.

I have been struggling with an emachines P3-500 for the last 18 months (worst thing I ever bought) and after numerous problems have decided to buy a new PC. I would rather buy a ready built - I think I need the Customer support, plus I don't really have the time to buy & build.

I am leaning towards a Dell Dimension 4300 - P4 1.6GhZ with GeForce2 64MB Mx400. I use the PC for internet, MP3s, basic home video editing using my DV Cam and Firewire, and some gaming.

I play games like Rogue Spear, Age of Empires, and would like to be able to play more recent ones like Max Payne, Commandos 2 and GTA3. Like I said, I would not consider myself hardcore and do not demand ultimate performance from my machine - just would like it to be adequate.

A few specific questions if I may:-
The Dell comes with XP Home - am I likely to have any compatibility issues with my older games like Rogue Spear? What about hardware like my HP 9200 series hardware and my existing Roadrunner Cable network card and modem?

Is the GeForce MX400 going to be adequate?

I have an older Monitor that I intend on keeping - is there any chance it will not be compatible with the new graphics card?

In general, how would you rate a Dell Dimension 4300?

Thanks in advance.

[bigpuma]

I have had a Dell until I recently built my first machine. I would reccomend them if you do not want to spend the time building. I still have my dimension 4100 with a P3 733mhz processor and whatever 32 meg video card they put in it. It works fine for games including Everquest and Quake 3, probably not the best but it worked fairly well. However I would say that I found building my first machine much easier than I anticipated. In fact I built a whole new machine and wish I had used the parts from my Dell, but I was worried about not having a computer if I screwed up. Also I have dealt with Tech support from Dell and they will help you, but I get answers to my questions much much faster by posting here. To sum up, Dell will work fine for you but don't be afraid to build your own. just my 2 cents.

BP