In gaming there seems to be almost no noticeable difference (except in price) going from an i5-2500k to an i7-2600k or i7-2700k.
You can find reliable and in depth reviews on Sandy Bridge
here, and Ivy Bridge
here. Note, both link to specific game title benchmarks in a an extended review. Look around on the other pages, and especially the final conclusion for more relevant information.
I'd heartily recommend the Core i5-2500k or Core i5 3570k for any gamer with a budget.
Just curious, Assassion, but why do you recommend Sandy Bridge over Ivy Bridge? Is it pricing or overclocking?
Ivy Bridge (3xxx series) processors cost a little extra, but give the user access to both HD Graphics 4000 (not necessarily relevant for gamers), and PCI Express 3.0--if you plan to buy one of those sexy, sexy video cards.
Also of interest:
Best Gaming CPUs For The Money: July 2012
Best Graphics Cards For The Money: July 2012
George, Of The Jungle Jun 29, 2012:
Is this the profile of a bear?? Hmm, I didn't know bears were capable of playing css. Don't they break the keyboard with their massive paws? This is very peculiar and requires further investigation. If this is true, no one knows what kind of risks this might hold. They might electrocute themselves, maybe they become addicted to the game causing them to neglect their parental tasks. What must become of their offspring?
I will select a team consisting of the world's foremost scientists that will go about this scientific quest in the uttermost professional manner. This taskforce will carry the name "CANBURZREALLYPLAYCOUWNTERTRIKE - HUHWHUT????". I trust upon these men a task of huge importance, the fate of bearkind may depend on it. Godspeed men, Godspeed!