Can an Old Quad Core Processor Run the Latest Games?

When considering whether your old quad core processor can handle the latest games, such as Assassin's Creed Syndicate, Far Cry Primal, and Tomb Raider, it's important to understand the current system requirements and what upgrades might be necessary.

Processor Performance Over Time

By mentioning a "7-8 years old processor," you likely refer to a processor from the first generation of quad core processors. While the number of cores is significant, it's not the sole factor determining a processor's performance. The power of a single core is crucial, and first-generation quad cores from this era are generally quite weak. Additionally, newer processors are continually being developed with advancements in technology, which significantly impact performance.

Upgrade Recommendations

My recommendation would be to upgrade to a more powerful processor first. For instance, you could consider a mid-range processor like an i3 from the 6th generation (around 9,000 INR). Alternatively, you might find a used 4th generation i5 model (around 9,000 INR as well), which should offer significantly improved performance.

System Interdependencies

Upgrading a processor means you’ll need to address the entire system. A new processor typically requires a new motherboard, and this, in turn, will necessitate new RAM. Assuming your current RAM is DDR2, you’ll need to upgrade to DDR3 or DDR4 for better performance and compatibility. Similarly, you will need a suitable graphics card to play modern games at high settings.

A decent motherboard along with an i3 or a used i5 processor, along with the necessary RAM and a graphics card, will cost you around 25-26,000 INR. This setup should allow you to play all games released up to Q4 2015 at high settings, and 2016 games at mid settings. This is a pretty good compromise given the cost.

Cost-Effectiveness Calculation

Given the budget, if you can allocate 25-26,000 INR, it’s worthwhile to upgrade. However, if the budget is tighter, the satisfaction gained from playing newer games at decent settings might not be as enjoyable. The performance gap between an older processor and a more modern one is quite significant, so spending the extra money might be necessary to achieve the desired gaming experience.

Further Assistance

If you need more assistance in choosing the right components for your upgrade, please feel free to comment. Good luck with your upgrade!