So as it turns out the problem is the operator, not the system. Basically the problem lies chiefly with me being an idiot, with a side of reading comprehension. I wasn't installing the CPU correctly...yeah it was a pretty rookie mistake and I am glad I didn't fry the CPU. So there is no need to make fun right?...right?
Now that we have moved on from that...I am posting from the new computer! Everything seems to be working, including Vista. Installed Bioshock and dialed everything into the highest setting with a resolution of 1680x1050 and it ran flawlessly. Definitely happy with the computer (now that it's working). I'll post some pics pretty soon too.
Thanks for the help everyone!