Are laptops (PC) any good for playing games? I have never owned one before?

To get a good gaming laptop you will end up spending 1.5 x the amount you would pay for the same spec in a desktop

Yes, they are - You just have to get the right one. Personally, I have owned an Alienware with top specs, Asus and Macbook Pro. I quickly ditched the Alienware - Just like Apple products, all that you are paying for is the name.

Asus is the way to go nowadays. They are making fantastic laptops that will run most games out there on Max Settings, and they are much cheaper than the "All Name" laptops such as Alienware. I also use my Macbook Pro (Running Windows via Bootcamp), and it works beautifully.

If you are going to get one, I would suggest Asus if you are on more of a budget. Get at least 4GB (Preferred 8GB) RAM, Intel i5 (i7 would be MUCH better) processor - And try to get the 2nd Gen Sandybridge ones, at least 1GB of GPU (Video Card) and you should be set. By all means if you got an SSD that would be nice as well!

Here is my recommendation:

Get an Asus. They offer the current BEST gaming laptops on the market. Period. This is not only because of the components used, but the price and service they offer with it.

you are able to truly build your gaming rig. I wouldn't purchase a gaming rig, i might build it. That's what I'm doing, I'm procuring laptop areas, attempting to purchase 2 each and every pay. This pay, i offered the case, and motherboard. CM typhoon trooper, and MSI GD65 motherboard. Its ordinary to construct a gaming rig, like merely lookup YouTube video clips, that's what I'm gonna do. That's what I've been doing, so i will get a great glimpse of what areas to purchase.

nope they aren't made for playing games unless they are specific for games and it makes me laugh when my friends complain that their games don't run well on laptops if you want one for gaming i suggest HP or alienwere