What the list is telling you
Most games publish a list of hardware they need, usually found on the store page or the developer’s site. The list typically names an operating system, a processor, an amount of memory, a graphics card, and the free storage space the game requires. Some also mention the network connection, a specific storage type or the display. These are the developer’s guidance about what the game was tested on, and they are worth reading before you buy.
Minimum versus recommended
Most listings come in two tiers.
Minimum describes the lowest hardware on which the developer expects the game to run at all. That usually means low graphics settings, a lower resolution and a modest frame rate. It does not necessarily mean the experience will be pleasant, only that it should start and be playable. Some games are demanding enough that “playable” is a generous word on minimum hardware.
Recommended describes hardware that should provide a comfortable experience, often at higher settings. Developers define “comfortable” differently, and the listing may or may not say which resolution or frame rate it assumes. If it does, take note, because that detail matters more than the part names.
Some listings add further tiers, such as an “ultra” or “high” level. If a game lists only one tier, treat it with some caution, since it may be a minimum in disguise.
A useful rule of thumb is that meeting the minimum means you can try the game, meeting the recommended level means you can expect a decent experience, and exceeding it gives you room for higher settings. It is only a rule of thumb, since individual games and computers vary.
Finding out what your computer has
You cannot compare without knowing your own specifications. Your operating system includes a system information screen that shows the processor model, installed memory and operating system version. Graphics card details are available in the system’s device or display information, and your storage capacity and free space appear in the drive or storage overview. The names and locations of these screens vary between systems and versions, so use your system’s built-in help or search to locate them.
Write down the processor model, amount of memory, graphics card model and free storage. Laptops sometimes have two graphics options, a basic built-in one and a more capable separate one, so check which one the game actually uses. If you are new to these terms, our overview of computer components explains what each part is.
Comparing part by part
Operating system. This is a simple yes or no. Make sure your system version is supported.
Memory. This is also direct: compare the amount you have with the amount listed. Remember that your system and other programs use memory too, so a computer with exactly the amount listed may have little room to spare. A browser left open with many tabs can matter.
Storage. Check the free space, not the total capacity, and leave extra room for updates, which can be large. Some listings mention a solid-state drive as required or recommended; if so, the developer is signaling that loading from a hard drive may be slow or cause hitches. Our notes on game storage cover planning space.
Processor. Comparing processors by name is harder, because the listing may name particular models. Models from different generations are not easy to compare by eye. If the listed model is older than yours, yours is likely at least as capable, but if the names are unfamiliar, search for comparison information from reputable sources and keep in mind that results vary by game.
Graphics card. This is often the most important comparison and the trickiest. Listings name specific cards. If yours is not listed, look for independent comparisons and see where it sits relative to the named ones. Video memory matters as well as the model. Our guide to graphics hardware explains why.
What the listing leaves out
- Resolution and settings. A listing may assume a modest resolution. If you play at a higher one, you will need more graphics power than the list suggests.
- Frame rate. Some assume 30 frames per second, others 60, and many do not say.
- Other programs. Listings are usually written assuming little else is running.
- Cooling. A laptop that meets the specification on paper may slow down in long sessions due to heat.
- Drivers. Out-of-date graphics drivers can cause problems even on capable hardware. Our article on device drivers explains how to keep them current safely.
- Your screen. A high refresh rate monitor makes the computer work harder to take advantage of it.
Checking before you buy
Some stores let you refund a game within certain limits, which is one way to test, but check the store’s policy because rules vary and you should not rely on them. Another option is to read recent player comments about performance on hardware similar to yours. Some games include a free demo or benchmark. Treat any single opinion cautiously, since experiences differ.
If your computer falls short
If you miss the minimum, there is a limit to what settings can fix. Options include skipping the game, waiting until you upgrade, or choosing a game with lower demands. Before spending money, find out which part is the limit. Sometimes a modest change, such as adding memory, solves the problem, and sometimes it does not. If an upgrade is on your mind, our introduction to computer upgrades explains the options.
Treat requirement lists as a useful guide, not a guarantee. They tell you whether a game is likely to run, but your own testing and cautious expectations will tell you whether you will enjoy it.