Get an XFX Radeon HD 7850 graphics card and three games for $144.59

A couple weeks back we talked desktops, which many of you still favor for games and other graphics-intensive tasks.

Ah, but are you still trying to squeeze extra frames from an old, outdated video card -- or, worse, the integrated video subsystem that came with the machine?

For a limited time, Newegg has the XFX Double D FX-785A-ZDF4 Radeon HD 7850 video card for $159.59 shipped when you apply coupon code EMCYTZT3405 at checkout. Even better, you can get an additional $15 off via a mail-in rebate (PDF), for a grand total of $144.59.

That's already a solid deal, but it gets way better: The card includes full versions of BioShock: Infinite, Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon, and the new Tomb Raider. Combined list price on that top-rated threesome: $109.99. Score!

The card drops into an available PCI Express x16 slot, but requires two slots' worth of space, so check your motherboard to make sure it has proper accommodations. Also, you'll need at least a 500-watt power supply.

I don't know a ton about modern video cards, having given up the chase for more graphics horsepower many years ago. But I can tell you this one has an HDMI output, two DVI outputs, and two mini DisplayPort outputs (for the five or six people out there who might have a need for that).

Also, it's based on AMD's Radeon HD 7850 processor and includes 1GB of dedicated graphics RAM. Super-hard-core gamers would probably prefer a newer chip and twice the RAM, but I think this represents a very solid upgrade for anyone with an older and/or underpowered desktop.

Indeed, if you check the user reviews, you'll find that most buyers are overjoyed with the XFX -- though a few did encounter reliability problems. As always, it's worth doing a little homework on both the card and company before making your purchase. But get this: the card includes a lifetime warranty. That would certainly allay any concerns I'd have about card failure.

Bonus deal: Looking for the tablet deal of the month? Heck, the year: This week only, Barnes & Noble has chopped Nook HD and HD+ prices to $149 and $179, respectively. These tablets are even more impressive now that they include access to the Google Play store. The 8.9-inch Nook HD+ in particular is an outright steal at $179.

Deals found on The Cheapskate are subject to availability, expiration, and other terms determined by sellers.

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