IMGD has labs with PCs fully equipped with all of the software and hardware you need for coursework, extracurricular, and personal projects.
The ATC at WPI offers laptops that can be checked out on a short-term basis if you need one. Neither ATC laptops, nor lab computers in most non-IMGD computer labs on campus are suitable for most game development work.
As of Spring 2024, WPI recommends a minimum of 16GB of RAM and 500GB of storage, which is sufficient for day-to-day use.
This is sufficient for day-to-day work, but will not provide adequate performance for running game engines such as Unity or Unreal, or most 3D art software
If you intend to use your personal computer for game development, the following specs are recommended:
- A current-generation Intel or AMD processor
- ≥ 32GB RAM
- Nvidia RTX 4060 Graphics or better
- 500GB+ SSD for primary storage, and a secondary HDD or SSD with an additional 500GB
- A desktop is typically cheaper than an equivalent laptop, and will allow you the option to upgrade hardware, which can be more cost-effective than upgrading the entire machine
- Desktops lack portability that you may want for working on-campus in group settings (particularly for non-IMGD work)
- If you prefer a portable setup and it is within your means, it may be worth getting a mid-range laptop and relying on lab machines for heavier work
- If purchasing a workstation or gaming laptop, read the reviews carefully and be wary of heating/battery issues. For game dev work, you will almost always be using your laptop while plugged in to avoid CPU/GPU throttling, which may reduce the life of your battery
- WPI has a number of dsicount programs available. Most of these don't require you to have your .edu email yet:
https://hub.wpi.edu/spread/10/student-computer-recommendations
- For desktops, you can often get good deals on used PCs, or open box/floor models via NewEgg and MicroCenter
- For mid to high-end laptops, Eluktronics provides some of the best pricing and customer support
- Avoid Alienware PCs and other flashy gaming computer lines, especially for laptops. They tend to be overpriced for mediocre performance