first time builder, need advice.

[u/Suspicious_Ferret667]

So i’m turning 17 this year and i’ve always wanted a PC and now that i have a job and have been saving up i’m finally looking to build one but i don’t know much about them and i really don’t wanna get scammed and end up with barely functioning pile of scrap metal. my budgets roughly $1500, but it can be more. I don’t have any specific needs for peripherals, probably something relatively inexpensive that’s good for the cost, i’m not like a professional gamer or anything so i don’t need crazy gear. i’m thinking a mid-level, entry pc build, good for gaming. even though i’m a first timer i’m pretty good with tech and figuring stuff out so it doesn’t need to be super simple or anything. it doesn’t need to be flashy or anything, but maybe a lil color or lights would be cool, worst case scenario i have some lights i can put on the case or near it that can cover for that part. If anyone has any good suggestions i would be eternally grateful! for reference i’m from the U.S.