Build to last a few years

I've never built a computer before and I want to try my hand. I want to run Skyrim as best as possible. I figure I can canabalize my stinky budget computer for parts. What I need is advice on chip, motherboard, and video card. I'd ideally like all 3 for $700.

 

Well, an Intel 2600K or an AMD Bulldozer should suffice, the Bulldozer being a somewhat less expensive alternative. As to video cards, the best bang for the bucks is an nVidia 560ti. I don't know ATI cards.

Make sure to buy a proper power supply for whichever video card that you get. Do you think you'll be adding a second video card in the future?

 

The i7 seems a bit expensive. Could I make do with an i5?
I haven't given any thought to a dual card set-up, though now I will.

 

Of course you can, there's nothing wrong with it.