So, I'm looking at getting a new Windows PC. It'll be used for dev work and games (and Jen'll be using it for email/surfing).

I'm quite impressed with my work PC -- Dell Precision 470, dual Xeon CPU, big wedge of RAM.

However, I don't particularly want to pay Dell prices.

What's good right now?

Oh, it must be able to play Half-Life 2 or equivalent, so a decent graphics card is a must.

I'll also be looking at a new (LCD) monitor. Any suggestions on that front?