I bought a XFX nvidia 8600gt 512mb, and some of the reviews on newegg said they run hot, but it shouldn't be a problem unless you are overclocking.
Speedfan says the core is running at 50C (122) idle. Now, i don't have an side exhaust fan (which should help keep it cool), so i was wondering, is it ok to play games, etc... without having to worry about overheating until i get a side fan?
Games such as Far cry, HL2, painkiller be, etc...

i dont think it would hurt anything if you did play for a few hours, if it would make you feel better you can leave your side of the case off