Question : Can anyone suggest a good spec for a games machine?

I want some good suggestions for a motherboard - processor - memory bundle that can serve as a base for a PC that can heavy 3D games like Microsoft Flight Simulator X and ArmA 2.

I don't want the leading edge stuff that you pay through nose for, nor do I want stuff that is on its way to being obsolete. Let's say the price would be around $300.

I'd like to know about current Intel sockets and processors, and current AMD stuff.

Also, what kind of hard drive technology are they using these days?

Answer : Can anyone suggest a good spec for a games machine?

$300 overall for a games machine?
It will be very hard to avoid the "nor do I want stuff that is on its way to being obsolete" part.

>>what kind of hard drive technology are they using these days?

High RPM SATA - although Solid State Drives (SSD) are starting to make an appearance - particualrly in the portable marketplace.