Computer upgrade help, please?

GLAMhorror

So, my computer's getting outdated at being 4 years old. I'd love to upgrade to a new computer so I can play sims flawlessly as I have on this one. Fact is, I don't have much money to spend on one. I'd like a computer that can be expanded and updated/upgraded with time if needed, but still on the cheap side. I found one in particular I like from Best Buy, but I don't know if it could really hold up to Sims 3 expectations.
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Lenovo+-+IdeaCentre+Desktop+-+6GB+Memory+-+1TB+Hard+Drive/4603017.p?id=1218496161228&skuId=4603017
What are your preferences? Is this a good computer for simming? Or would it be a waste of money?

Purplefreak3

I would stay away from that computer cause wouldn't even attempt to try to play games on that setup.

Shadow2Soul

I wouldn't trust the graphics in that pc. Intel's graphics aren't the best for gaming. I would suggest looking for a pc with NVIDIA or ATI, but thats just my personal preference.

bob007

The specs don't list a video slot. This is characteristic of bargain computers.

btw: that big box store has announced it is closing 50 stores. That is a sign of trouble. I recommend caution.

katana_x

Do you know anyone who builds computers? You can pay for parts, pay them for the labor, and still spend considerably less for a *lot* more computer than you would on a pre-built machine. I spent a couple thousand building my machine, and it would probably have been close to twice that if I'd purchased it from a box. For the amount you want to spend, you'll have much better luck buying parts. You can probably recycle some parts from your old rig, too, like the case itself.

bob007

katana_x - Ive been recommending http://www.ibuypower.com/IbpPages/AMDLobby.aspx as my son bought one (4 years of college and loyalty goes right out the window) and it looked good. The only complaint is the Corsair water cooler makes a clicking sound (the pump). Prices are on par and systems are very customizable. Components are off the shelf parts so it's like you went to CompUSA and bought the parts. I think the prises are reasonable.