Can I run this game?

Here are my specs:
OS: Windows 7
RAM: 8gb
Processor: AMD Phenom II x4 820 (Quad Core @ 2.8 ghz)
Graphics: Nvdia Geforce GTX 660
Yes, I have plenty of hardrive space and internet connection.

Yes: I know I’ll probably face bottle-necking with my older Processor. However, since I have an AM3 chip set and I really don’t want to get a new motherboard, what would happen if I replaced it (assuming I’m not fine with what I have) with an AMD Phenom II x4 980 (that is, Quad core @ 3.7 ghz).
So far, that’s the best AM3 processor I could find.
Now: a crazy question:
Let’s say I’m going to splurge on something new. I’d get Intel, I think, because I’m a Total War nut and apparently TW is more Intel-friendly than AMD…
In THAT case, I’d go for that insane-looking i7-4970k: any idea for a motherboard that’s good for such a processor?
Also: are there any 8-core intel processors?
Also: (I know I’m rambling but, if I fail the “I can run this” test, I’d like to know my options): wat’s a good motherboard for, say, an FX Vishera-4350?
Overall: here’s what I’m saying. Currently, my processor is a wee bit out of date (though right now I’m running fine). I’m looking to run the following:
This Game
Shadow of Mordor
Dragonage: Inquisition
Anything Total War that comes out within the next four years or so.
Games like the above.
I prefer performance to graphics, but decent graphics are preferable to bad graphics (obviously).
So! Can I get by without a new motherboard, and if not, what do you recommend (processor and motherboard).
AND: if I suddenly decide to go for intel Motherboard and processor, is there anything else I have to do aside from installing them (rebuilding etc.)

Also: my PC was prebuilt (Dell Studio XP 7100 or something). My only addition is the new graphics card (updated from an ATI Radeon 5450). Not sure what my motherboard can handle, so if I have to replace it to get the Phenom 980, I might as well replace it with AM3+ or Intel…

you’re right the processor may cause some problems but most games dont need powerful processors. KCD needs a more powerful one I guess

I actually had an AMD phenom II X4 840 myself which is a little better than yours but I just rebuilt my computer
I switched from AMD to Intel (not only because Intel Processors are more power saving)
So if you plan to do so you need a new motherboard like you said (I chose the Asus P8 Z77-V LX) and my processor is now an Intel Core i5-3470 @3,2Ghz which is a pretty solid one. You dont need i7 processors for gaming imo.

your graphics card should be able to handle the game maybe not on highest settings though
8gb ram is einough, too

When you rebuilt your pc and switch mainboard and cpu you have to reinstall windows7, too