I have never built a computer before and don't know much about the actual building process, but /r/computers convinced me to after explaining how crappy the pre-built Dell I was planning to get was.

Here is my current list of things I know I'll need to buy (revised to include Custofurby's suggestions):

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

Let me know if there is anything I need to add to this list (other than the operating system), such as additional cooling devices.

Basically, I want to build a semi-budget PC that will be capable of running new games for the next several years (not necessarily on the highest settings).

I am hoping that someone can check over my list, suggest better/more stable parts when it makes sense, and to give general comments and suggestions.

Thank you for your help. I'm really excited about getting started, but I want to make sure that I'm making good choices before I start buying. I know someone who has built several computers who has agreed to oversee the actual building process, but please let me know if you foresee any issues/weird things for me to keep in mind when it comes to putting these specific parts together.

Edit: I should also mention that I'm not planning to get a cd/dvd drive, at least not in the tower.