Which is better for gaming, an i5 or an i7?

Choosing between an Intel Core i5 and i7 for gaming depends heavily on your needs and budget. It’s not a simple “i7 is always better” scenario.

Intel Core i5: The Budget-Friendly Gamer

• Generally fewer cores and threads than i7.
• Sufficient for many games, especially at 1080p or lower resolutions.
• Excellent value for money if you’re not pushing high frame rates or ultra settings.
• Ideal for esports titles and less demanding games.

Intel Core i7: The High-End Performer

• More cores and threads, leading to improved performance in demanding games.
• Shines at higher resolutions (1440p and 4K) and with maximum graphical settings.
• Handles multitasking better, allowing for smoother streaming and background applications.
• Future-proofs your system for more demanding games to come.

Key Considerations:

• Resolution and Settings: If you’re gaming at 1080p with medium settings, an i5 might be perfectly adequate. For 4K with maximum settings, an i7 will deliver a significantly smoother experience.
• Other Components: The CPU is only one part of the gaming PC. A powerful GPU is just as crucial, and a bottleneck in one area can negate the benefits of a superior CPU. Balance your components appropriately.
• Budget: i7 processors generally cost more. Assess your budget and prioritize components based on your gaming priorities.
• Generation Matters: A newer generation i5 might outperform an older generation i7. Always compare specific models (e.g., i5-13600K vs i7-12700K) rather than relying solely on the i5/i7 designation.

In short: An i5 is a great choice for budget-conscious gamers or those with less demanding setups. An i7 is the better option for high-end gaming, maximum settings, and future-proofing, but only if paired with appropriate other components.

Which processor is better for gaming, AMD or Intel?

The “best” CPU for gaming between AMD and Intel is highly dependent on the specific CPUs being compared and your budget. While Intel’s Alder Lake architecture offered a strong lead in raw 3D graphics performance in certain benchmarks, particularly when paired with Windows 10, this advantage isn’t universally consistent across all games and resolutions. AMD’s Ryzen processors often compete fiercely, offering strong performance per dollar, particularly in higher core count configurations that benefit certain games.

Intel’s advantage in integrated graphics stems from their efficient architecture and, in some cases, superior IPC (Instructions Per Clock). However, the benefit of integrated graphics is significantly diminished at higher resolutions and with demanding titles. For truly high-end gaming, a dedicated graphics card remains essential and will overshadow any CPU-based performance differences.

Overclocking potential is another area where Intel sometimes edges out AMD, though this depends heavily on the specific silicon lottery and cooling solution. Achieving stable overclocks can provide a modest performance uplift, but it’s not a guaranteed benefit and requires technical expertise.

Above the $200 USD price point, the performance gap often narrows significantly, with both AMD and Intel offering compelling options. The choice becomes more nuanced, requiring a careful consideration of specific benchmarks relevant to your preferred games and resolution.

Ultimately, focusing solely on CPU performance ignores other critical gaming components like the GPU, RAM, and storage. A balanced system is key for optimal gaming experiences.

What’s the difference between Core i3, i5, and i7 processors?

Level up your gaming rig! Choosing between Core i3, i5, and i7 processors can feel like a boss battle in itself. Let’s break down the core differences (pun intended!).

Think of the Core i3 as the reliable warrior – historically dual-core, but the latest generations boast a respectable quad-core setup. It’s a solid choice for casual gaming and everyday tasks, but might struggle with demanding AAA titles at max settings.

The Core i5 is the versatile mage – offering a wider range of core counts, from dual-core to six-core configurations. This adaptability allows for smoother gameplay across a broader spectrum of games, providing a significant performance boost over the i3, especially in heavily threaded games.

The Core i7 is the legendary dragon slayer – packing serious firepower with configurations ranging from four to even ten cores! This beast handles high-resolution gaming, complex simulations, and intense multitasking with effortless grace. Expect maximum frame rates and flawless performance, but be prepared to pay the price for this top-tier performance.

The number of cores isn’t the only factor! Clock speed (measured in GHz) and cache size also drastically affect performance. Higher clock speeds mean faster individual core processing, while larger cache sizes allow for quicker access to frequently used data. Always check these specifications when comparing processors!

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget and gaming aspirations. The i3 is budget-friendly, the i5 offers excellent value, and the i7 is for the ultimate gaming experience. Choose wisely, and conquer the gaming world!

What’s the difference between a Core i5 and a Core i7?

Core i5 vs. Core i7: Key Differences

The main difference boils down to core count and cache. Historically, i7 processors boasted more cores than i5. While current-gen i5 models often feature 4 cores, higher-end i7 models can reach 6 or even more, significantly impacting multitasking and demanding application performance. This translates to smoother handling of multiple programs simultaneously and faster completion times for resource-intensive tasks like video editing or 3D rendering.

Cache Matters: Beyond core count, Intel’s i7 typically offers a larger L3 cache. This is a fast, on-chip memory that acts as a buffer between the CPU and slower system RAM. A larger cache means more frequently accessed data remains readily available, leading to faster processing speeds. Imagine it as a well-organized desk; the more space you have (larger cache), the easier it is to find what you need quickly.

Beyond Cores and Cache: While core count and cache are major differentiators, other factors contribute to performance differences, including clock speed (measured in GHz), Turbo Boost capabilities (dynamically increasing clock speeds), integrated graphics performance, and TDP (Thermal Design Power, impacting cooling needs and power consumption). Always check the specific specifications of individual models for a complete picture.

In short: Generally, an i7 provides superior performance in multi-threaded applications due to its higher core count and larger cache. However, the performance gap between i5 and i7 can vary significantly depending on the specific generation and model. Choosing between them depends entirely on your workload and budget.

Which processor is better for gaming, an i3 or an i5?

Alright gamers, let’s talk CPUs for gaming. The i5-13400 absolutely smokes the i3-13100F in games. We’re talking a significant performance jump. The i3 will bottleneck mid-range GPUs, leaving performance on the table. The i5-13400 will comfortably handle those and give you a much smoother experience. Think of it like this: the i3 is a decent economy car, but the i5 is a sports car – way more fun to drive, especially when you’ve got a good graphics card.

Now, if you’re rocking a high-end card like an RTX 4070 Ti or 4080, you’ll want to step up to the i5-13600K(F) or even the i5-14600K(F). These top-tier i5s will ensure your GPU isn’t being held back, letting you crank the settings and resolution without sacrificing frame rates. They’re the real deal for maximizing your high-end gaming rig’s potential. Don’t waste that powerful GPU on a weak CPU; it’s like putting a Ferrari engine in a beat-up Pinto.

Remember, your CPU is the brain of your gaming rig. It’s responsible for all the calculations behind the scenes. A stronger CPU translates directly to higher frame rates, smoother gameplay, and less stuttering, especially in demanding titles. Don’t skimp on this vital component; it’s a critical investment.

What’s important in a processor for gaming?

Forget marketing hype; raw gaming performance boils down to a few key CPU specs. Core count is crucial. More physical cores mean smoother gameplay, especially in modern, heavily-threaded titles. Don’t be fooled by just high clock speeds; more cores handle those demanding background processes like recording, streaming, and Discord flawlessly.

Thread count is equally vital, representing the number of tasks the CPU can handle concurrently. Higher thread count translates to better frame rates and responsiveness in demanding games.

Base clock speed gives you a baseline performance indicator, but don’t fixate solely on this. Boost clock speed, the speed it hits under load, is arguably more relevant for gaming.

Socket compatibility is non-negotiable. Make sure the CPU is compatible with your motherboard. A wasted purchase is a costly mistake.

System memory (RAM) interacts closely with the CPU. Insufficient RAM bottlenecks performance even with a top-tier CPU. Aim for at least 16GB, but 32GB is future-proof.

Cache memory (L1, L2, L3) acts as high-speed storage for frequently accessed data. Larger caches, especially L3, translate to faster load times and smoother gameplay. Look for ample L3 cache.

TDP (Thermal Design Power) shows how much heat the CPU generates. Higher TDPs demand more effective cooling solutions. Overheating leads to performance throttling – a gamer’s worst nightmare.

IPC (Instructions Per Clock) – this often overlooked metric indicates how efficiently the CPU executes instructions. A higher IPC value means more work done per clock cycle, resulting in better performance even at lower clock speeds.

Microarchitecture matters. Newer architectures generally offer better IPC and performance features. Research the specific architecture (e.g., Zen 4, Raptor Lake) before buying.

Which is better, a Core i9 or a Ryzen 9?

The “better” processor between Ryzen 9 and Core i9 heavily depends on your workload. For raw, overall performance across a broad range of tasks, including content creation and professional applications, Ryzen 9 generally holds a significant edge, boasting higher core counts and often superior multi-threaded performance. This translates to faster rendering times, quicker video editing, and smoother multitasking.

However, the gaming landscape is more nuanced. While Ryzen 9 processors offer excellent gaming performance, Intel’s Core i9-9900K (and its successors in the same generation, though less so in later generations) often demonstrates a slight advantage in certain titles, particularly those heavily reliant on single-core performance and lower latencies. This advantage is often not substantial and may be negated by other hardware limitations. It’s less about a clear-cut winner and more about specific titles and their optimization for different architectures. Always check benchmarks specific to your target games before making a decision. Don’t let the marketing fool you – a higher core count doesn’t always translate directly into better gaming FPS.

Furthermore, consider the platform. AMD’s AM4 platform and its successor AM5 had exceptional longevity and value, often offering more features for the money. Intel’s socket compatibility has been less consistent across generations. Therefore, choosing between the two is not just about CPU but also the associated motherboard costs and ecosystem compatibility. Memory speeds also play a significant role and influence the overall performance more than many realize, particularly in Ryzen systems. Check memory latency and speeds supported.

Ultimately, the optimal choice boils down to your specific needs and budget. Define your primary use case – gaming, professional work, or a balance of both – and prioritize accordingly. Don’t solely focus on the brand name; delve into detailed benchmarks for your intended applications to make an informed decision. Game-specific performance can be easily checked on numerous websites and forums.

Should I get an i7 or is an i5 sufficient?

i5: Think of the i5 as your reliable, solid entry-level weapon. Great for casual gaming, streaming, and general productivity. It’ll handle most esports titles at decent settings, but don’t expect to max everything out at 4K. Think consistent 60fps in most games, maybe dipping below in demanding titles. Good for the average player or someone just starting out. Budget-friendly, but don’t expect miracles.

i7: The i7’s the pro-grade beast. We’re talking serious firepower here. If you’re aiming for competitive esports at the highest settings, pushing for those top framerates and minimizing latency, the i7 is your go-to. It’s designed to handle intense multitasking – think streaming while gaming, recording gameplay, and having multiple applications open simultaneously without a hiccup. Significant performance jump over the i5, especially in heavily threaded applications like video editing or simulations. The price reflects that higher performance, though. Essential for top-tier performance and a competitive edge.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your needs and budget. Are you happy with good performance at a reasonable price? i5. Need the absolute best, pushing the boundaries of performance? i7. Consider the generation of the processor too—a newer i5 might outperform an older i7.

What processor should a gaming PC have?

The CPU you choose hinges heavily on your budget and desired gaming experience. Let’s break down the options:

• Ryzen 3 and Core i3: Budget-conscious gamers will find these sufficient for 1080p gaming at lower settings. Don’t expect to max out graphics, but you’ll get playable frame rates. Think of them as entry-level processors, ideal for esports titles or older games.
• Core i5 and Ryzen 5: The sweet spot for most gamers. These offer a significant performance boost over the entry-level options, allowing for higher settings and smoother gameplay at 1080p and even 1440p resolutions. Excellent value for money.
• Ryzen 7 and Core i7: Stepping up to this tier opens the door to 1440p gaming at high refresh rates and decent 4K performance. Crucially, they also provide the headroom necessary for smooth streaming. If you’re planning on broadcasting your gameplay, this is the minimum I’d recommend.
• Ryzen 9 and Core i9: High-end processors designed for extreme performance. These are overkill for most gamers, unless you’re targeting maximum graphical fidelity at 4K resolutions or engage in heavy multitasking (like video editing alongside gaming). The price premium often doesn’t justify the marginal gains for pure gaming unless you’re a serious enthusiast. Consider the generation carefully – sometimes a slightly older, high-core-count i7 or Ryzen 7 can offer comparable gaming performance at a fraction of the cost.

Important Considerations:

• Generation Matters: A Ryzen 5 7600X significantly outperforms a Ryzen 5 3600. Always check benchmarks for specific models.
• Pairings: Your GPU choice heavily impacts performance. A top-tier GPU paired with a budget CPU will bottleneck, wasting its potential.
• Future-Proofing: While higher-end CPUs might seem appealing, consider your upgrade path. A well-chosen mid-range CPU can often serve you well for several years before needing an upgrade.

Which i5 processor is best for gaming?

Yo, looking for the best i5 for gaming? Forget the hype, let’s talk straight facts. For most of 2025, the Intel Core i5-12600K was king – serious performance for the price. Needed something budget-friendly? The i5-12400 delivered solid framerates without breaking the bank. But the crown now belongs to the Core i5-13600K. It’s a beast, significantly boosting frame rates in many titles, especially at higher resolutions where the extra cores and threads really shine. Think of it as getting that extra edge in competitive play – those few extra FPS can mean the difference between winning and losing.

Don’t just look at raw clock speeds, though. Consider the IPC (Instructions Per Clock) improvements across generations. The 13th gen chips offer a noticeable leap there. And, pairing these processors with a decent GPU is crucial; even the best CPU will bottleneck if your graphics card can’t keep up. So, get a GPU that can handle your target resolution and refresh rate, you don’t want that sweet CPU power going to waste.

One last thing: motherboard compatibility. Make sure your motherboard supports the chipset of your chosen i5. Don’t mess that up, newbie. It’ll save you headaches.

What games can a Core i5 run?

Yo, what’s up, gamers! So you’re wondering what games a Core i5 can handle? Let’s break it down. I’ve got some solid benchmarks comparing the Intel Core i5-12400F and the Ryzen 5 8400F – two popular choices. This isn’t some noob’s guide, this is the real deal based on my years of experience.

Cyberpunk 2077: The 12400F clocks in around 72fps, while the 8400F hits 69fps. Not a huge difference, but the 12400F has a slight edge. Remember, this is highly dependent on your settings; crank those graphics up and the difference will be more noticeable. Ultra settings? Expect a dip in both.

Starfield: Now this is interesting. The 8400F actually pulls ahead here with 86fps versus the 12400F’s 89fps. Again, settings matter hugely; this is a demanding game.

Forza Horizon 5: Smooth sailing here. The 12400F gets 209fps and the 8400F gets 196fps. This is where a good GPU really shines. This game is less CPU-bound.

Ghost of Tsushima: The 12400F delivers 137fps, while the 8400F manages 121fps. Solid performance from both, but the 12400F takes the win.

The takeaway? Both CPUs are capable gaming processors, and your overall experience will heavily depend on your GPU and RAM. Don’t just look at CPU benchmarks; consider your whole system. These numbers represent a specific setup – your mileage may vary. And don’t forget to upgrade your drivers; a simple update can make a surprising difference!

Which is better, a Ryzen 9 or an Intel Core i9?

Forget the specs war, let’s talk real-world performance for esports. Intel’s i9 boasts more cores, but Ryzen 9’s higher thread count translates to smoother gameplay, especially in demanding titles with lots of background processes. That 5nm process on Ryzen gives it a significant edge in power efficiency, crucial for marathon gaming sessions – less heat, less noise, more frames. While i9 might offer a slightly higher overclocking potential, realistically, Ryzen’s higher base clock speed often delivers better out-of-the-box performance in competitive games. The slightly higher TDP on the i9 might seem insignificant, but in tournaments where consistent performance is king, Ryzen’s efficiency translates into a noticeable advantage. Think about it: less heat means more stable framerates – crucial for maintaining your edge in clutch moments.

Ultimately, the “better” CPU depends on the specific game and your settings. However, Ryzen 9’s superior multi-threading and power efficiency give it a significant advantage in many popular esports titles, allowing for better frame rates and less stuttering. That translates to faster reaction times and more consistent performance which is a huge win in competitive play.

What’s the difference between a Core i7 and an i9?

Yo, what’s up, gamers! Let’s break down the Core i7 vs. i9 difference. The main thing? i9 boasts Intel Thermal Velocity Boost (ITB). This tech lets it hit a crazy 5.3 GHz boost clock, unlike the i7’s capped 5.0 GHz. That’s a 300 MHz difference, not just 200 MHz – a significant jump for overclocking enthusiasts! The all-core boost also sees a difference, but ITB is the real game-changer here, pushing single-core performance to the absolute max for those killer framerates. Think of it like this: i7 is a solid race car, but i9 is a rocket ship ready for warp speed. The price difference, of course, reflects that added performance. But the extra headroom for future-proofing and extreme workloads is a serious consideration.

Which is more powerful, a Core i7 or a Ryzen 7?

Let’s cut the crap. The Ryzen 7 9700X boasts a slight single-core advantage, around 4%, clocking in at 2162 points versus the i7-14700K’s 2072. Think quick, precise strikes – the 9700X excels there. However, the i7-14700K is a different beast entirely in multi-core performance. We’re talking a massive 79% lead; 34,895 points to the 9700X’s 19,538. This isn’t a slight edge; it’s a landslide. Think sustained pressure, overwhelming force – that’s the i7-14700K.

Consider this: the 9700X is like a master swordsman, deadly with each blow, but vulnerable to sustained attacks. The i7-14700K is a war machine, brute force overwhelming precision. Your choice depends entirely on your play style. Need that burst damage? 9700X. Need to crush the enemy under sheer processing power? i7-14700K. Don’t let the single-core numbers fool you; the multi-core difference is staggering, especially in modern games and applications which heavily leverage multiple cores.

Remember, these are benchmark numbers. Real-world performance can vary based on your specific setup, cooling, and the tasks you’re performing. But the core message remains clear: single-core dominance versus multi-core supremacy. Choose wisely, young padawan.

Is an AMD Ryzen 9 better than an i9 for gaming?

For pure gaming, the i9-13900H’s higher single-core clock speeds usually translate to a slight edge. We’re talking about those crucial frames per second, the difference between victory and defeat. That’s what matters in pro-level competition. The Ryzen 9 7940HS might edge it out in some titles, depending on optimization, but the i9 often holds the lead in competitive titles where responsiveness is king.

However, don’t sleep on the Ryzen 9 7940HS. Its multi-core strength becomes incredibly important for streaming while gaming, recording gameplay, and running background applications. The integrated graphics are also a serious bonus; it’s a much smoother experience than the integrated graphics in most Intel chips, useful for things like secondary displays or quick content previews.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your priorities. If pure, unadulterated gaming performance is your only focus, and your budget allows, the i9 generally delivers that extra bit of competitive edge. But if you’re a content creator, a streamer, or need that extra processing power for multitasking, the Ryzen 9’s efficiency and overall power are worth considering. Game-specific benchmarks should always be your final judge though.

What processor is needed for a gaming PC?

The best CPU for gaming is a nuanced question, depending heavily on your budget and resolution. While the Core i5 series consistently delivers excellent gaming performance, simply saying “Core i5” is an oversimplification.

For most gamers in 2025, the Intel Core i5-13600K reigns supreme. Its high core count and clock speeds provide a significant performance uplift over its predecessors, ensuring smooth frame rates even at high resolutions and with demanding titles. However, this is only truly necessary if you’re pushing the boundaries of modern gaming with a high-refresh-rate monitor (144Hz or higher) at 1440p or 4K.

If budget is a concern, the Intel Core i5-13400 or even the still-capable i5-12400 are excellent alternatives. You’ll likely see minimal performance difference at 1080p, making them incredibly value-oriented choices. The jump to the 13600K will be more noticeable at higher resolutions where the extra cores can be better utilized.

It’s crucial to remember that the CPU is only one component of a gaming PC. A powerful GPU, ample RAM, and a fast NVMe SSD will all contribute significantly to the overall gaming experience. A top-tier CPU paired with a budget GPU will still bottleneck performance, negating the investment in the processor.

Ultimately, the “best” CPU is the one that balances performance with your budget and overall system configuration. Don’t overspend on a processor if your other components are holding you back.

Which is better, the i5 12400F or the Ryzen 5 5600?

The Ryzen 5 8400F decisively outperforms the i5-12400F, a difference more pronounced than simple single-core benchmarks might suggest. While the single-threaded performance gap isn’t massive, the Ryzen 5 8400F’s architecture shines in multi-threaded workloads.

Gaming Performance: While the difference isn’t always dramatic at 1080p with high refresh rates, the Ryzen 5 8400F often provides a smoother, more consistent experience, especially in CPU-bound titles or at higher resolutions. The extra cores and threads translate to better frame times and reduced stuttering. Expect advantages in games like Total War: Warhammer III, Microsoft Flight Simulator, and other demanding strategy and simulation games.

Content Creation: This is where the Ryzen 5 8400F truly separates itself. The performance advantage is significant, easily reaching 20% or more in tasks like video encoding (using software like Handbrake or DaVinci Resolve) and archive compression.

• Video Editing: Expect faster render times and smoother preview playback with the Ryzen 5 8400F.
• 3D Modeling and Rendering: While not solely CPU-dependent, the Ryzen 5 8400F’s multi-core strength aids significantly in these tasks.
• Streaming: The additional processing power helps reduce CPU load during streaming, leading to better stream quality and stability.

Why the Difference? The Ryzen 5 8400F leverages a more modern and efficient architecture, resulting in better multi-core performance. The i5-12400F, while a capable chip, shows its age in multi-threaded scenarios, reflecting its older design.

In short: If gaming is your primary focus, the difference might be subtle at lower resolutions, but the Ryzen 5 8400F offers a better future-proof investment, especially if you intend to handle any content creation workload. For pure content creation, the Ryzen 5 8400F is the clear winner.

Is an older i7 better than a newer i5?

Old i7 vs. New i5? Straight to the point: i7 wins, *usually*.

While a newer i5 *might* edge out an ancient i7 in specific, heavily optimized tasks, the general rule of thumb is clear. The i7’s architecture, even an older one, usually boasts more cores and threads – meaning it can handle more tasks concurrently. That translates to smoother multitasking and better performance in demanding applications.

Here’s the breakdown:

• Core Count & Threads: i7s generally have more cores and threads than i5s. This is the biggest performance differentiator for most users.
• Clock Speed: While clock speed matters, it’s less important than core count and architecture in modern processors. A higher-clocked i5 may sometimes beat a lower-clocked i7 in single-threaded tasks, but the i7 pulls ahead in multi-threaded workloads.
• Cache: i7s usually offer larger cache sizes. This allows the processor to access frequently used data more quickly, boosting overall performance.
• Generation Matters: A new i5 from a significantly later generation (e.g., 13th gen vs. 2nd gen i7) might outperform the older i7 due to architectural improvements and process node advancements. This is where specifics matter. Check benchmarks for *exact* models in question.

Think of it like this: The i7 is a seasoned veteran with more battle scars (and more weapons) while the i5 is a younger, faster fighter, but sometimes lacks the firepower to take on complex, multi-target challenges.

Bottom line: Check the specific processor models (e.g., i7-2600K vs. i5-13600K) and compare benchmarks before making a decision. However, generally speaking, an i7 will likely offer superior overall performance.

What is the difference between i3, i5, i7, and i9 processors?

Alright guys, so you’re wondering about Intel’s Core i3, i5, i7, and i9 processors? Think of it like choosing your weapon in a game – each one’s a different class. The higher the number, the more powerful the CPU, generally. It’s all about cores, folks – the more cores, the more tasks your PC can handle simultaneously. Like having multiple characters raiding a dungeon at once, instead of one poor guy soloing everything.

i3: Your trusty sidekick. Great for basic stuff like browsing and office work. Think of it as a dependable mage, solid but not the top damage dealer. Good for budget builds.

i5: The all-rounder. This is your warrior, powerful enough for most games and multitasking. A solid choice for a balanced system.

i7: Step up to the heavy hitters. We’re talking about a powerful knight here, ready for high-end gaming and serious content creation. More cores mean smoother performance with demanding apps.

i9: The ultimate boss slayer. The top-tier CPUs, these are for the most demanding tasks imaginable, like 4K video editing or hardcore multi-tasking. Think raid leader, capable of controlling the whole party.

But here’s the twist, just like games have different versions and patches, each i-series processor has *many* different variations. An i5-13600K is vastly different than an i5-10400. The generation number (like the 13 in 13600K) matters – newer generations are often faster and more efficient. Also consider clock speed (measured in GHz) – higher is better.

It’s not *just* the i-number, it’s the whole package. Think of it like this:

• i-number: The overall class (basic, all-rounder, high-end, beast).
• Generation number: The version of the game (newer is usually better).
• Clock speed: Your character’s attack speed (higher is better).

So, don’t just look at the i-number – dive deeper into the specifications! Choosing the right processor is crucial for the overall performance of your rig, just like picking the right character for a boss fight.