Chuck's answer is comprehensive. Personally I find a netbook screen too small for comfort, but otherwise it's an excellent, low-powered machine. Not sure about gaming, though, as I've never indulged but would imagine it's not powerful enough. Provided it comes with MS Office starter then you'll be OK for the other needs (if it doesn't, then download OpenOffice or similar - it's free). Beautifully light and portable if you need to carry it around. Check out the anticipated battery life, though.