Playing games on a server's CPU in 2020 was possible, though performance depended on the game and hardware.
Playing games on a server's CPU in 2020 was possible, though performance depended on the game and hardware.
High core count CPUs tend to run slower clocks, making them less ideal for gaming. However, technologies like Vulkan and DirectX 12 are leveraging more cores, while game developers expand multicore support. Right now, 32 or 64 core server CPUs far exceed the active usage capacity of most gaming and streaming programs. The 3950X seems capable for the next 2 to 5 years with its 16 cores. For extreme performance, I believe a 22-core Intel processor or a Threadripper with 32 or 64 cores would be optimal, allowing significant overclocking for strong gaming results.
Server components aren't typically what you'd expect for a top-tier setup. They're more relevant in the used sector, and the term "server" covers a broad range—from render farms to specialized PCIe chips. It's challenging to give a clear answer without more details.
Focus mainly on affordable options or budget builds, especially if you're setting up a workstation. For gaming setups, a well-chosen 9900K or 9900KS still holds an edge, with the 3900X/3950X offering similar performance in games. High-end CPUs like Threadripper's 3990X provide better speeds and clocks, while EPYC/Xeon models are less flexible due to high core counts and lower speeds. Gaming-centric builds should avoid overkill components that aren't needed.