How to Make a Computer Run Faster While Playing RTS
Real Time Strategy (RTS) games can be taxing on a computer's hardware. When there are hundreds of units on a screen at the same time, frame rates can drop so low that the game becomes unplayable. Here are several measure that will alleviate slowdowns in RTS games.
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Instructions
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Turn down the the video specifications of the game to the minimum level. Running a graphically intensive game on maximum detail settings will slow down all but the most powerful computers. Any RTS game will have video settings under an options menu. Many of these games set the graphics to high or medium quality by default, so lowering the graphics quality can be the quickest way to fix low frame rates, at the cost of visual sharpness.
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Turn off background programs. It is never a good idea to run multiple programs if you want to maximize performance, so close all other windows and programs running before you try to play an RTS. Also, ending other non-essential processes can speed up a game, such as startup applications on the taskbar. If you are not connected to the Internet, consider closing your antivirus program while you play.
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Keep your computer cool. A computer that runs too hot will not perform as well in games. There are many ways to help cool down your computer, such as keeping it in a cool space, installing more case fans or even opening the case up and blowing into it with a normal fan.
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Upgrade your computer's software. Getting the most recent versions of drivers for your graphics card will help it perform at its fullest potential.
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Upgrade your hardware. If all else fails, you may simply need more powerful computer hardware to play your game at a manageable frame rate. The easiest way to upgrade a computer to handle a game is to upgrade the video card and RAM. Research the recommended system requirements for the game, and upgrade your components so that they meet the requirements. If your processor itself is too slow to handle the game, you will need to upgrade it, which may require you to buy a new computer.
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Tips & Warnings
If you plan to play your game against human opponents, prioritize frame rate over graphics quality.
