Introduction

The concept of “gaming hardware,” at least in relation to the PC, is fairly new. I remember discovering 3D graphics for the first time back in 1998 – only five years ago! Pre-built systems were popular because they took the guesswork out of what used to be a challenging process, configuring hardware and software to work in harmony. There were IRQs to assign, jumpers to set and batch files to write so you could access the new CD-ROM drive upon boot-up. Ah, good times…

Nowadays, the gaming community tends to shun the world of pre-built PCs. “They are too expensive” and “Why the hell would I want a 2.8GHz Pentium 4 and integrated graphics?” are common retorts gamers give as they snub their noses in the direction of business-oriented OEMs. This isn’t the case any more, though. Between a cadre of talented game developers and the influence of Adam Smith’s invisible hand, we’ve seen several companies design and build what they see as the ideal gaming PC, pieced together, packed up, and shipped to your front door. Alienware and Falcon Northwest are two of the more well-known outlets, and just this past December we took a look at a killer gaming rig from ABS Computer.

But there’s a new guy in town; at least as far as system builder’s go. PC Progress was started in ’97, but dealt mainly in memory sales. The passage of time has seen the operation merge with Spartantech.com and branch into component sales. Then, last year, PC Progress launched its X Theory line to coincide with the debut of AMD’s Athlon XP. The company is now an NVIDIA launch partner, offers both AMD and Intel-based gaming systems and is self-reportedly focusing on infusing value.

The X Theory system

Lockable Antec case

Snazzy side panel for your viewing pleasure

The X Theory Titanium is PC Progress’ premier gaming system. It is fully customizable through an online configurator, right down to the optional rounded hard drive cables. PC Progress offers a one-year parts and labor warranty on its machines, regardless of how it is configured and a 30-day money back guarantee ensures the customer is satisfied with their order. In speaking with representatives of the company, it became clear that PC Progress’ main goal here is to offer the lowest price for a system able to compete with anything from competing manufacturers.