 |
 Today, if you're a hard-core gamer, the message is simple: Get a good 2D/3D card but don't forget to throw in a Voodoo2 card. If nothing else, Voodoo2 brings you the wealth of 3Dfx-only game titles that are still coming out. However, the future belongs to the standard APIs. We've begun to see somewhat wider support for OpenGL, though titles supporting this API will be very much in the minority. Direct3D games are starting to become quite robust - Direct3D version 5 is much more robust than its predecessors. If you have a Pentium PCI system and a Voodoo or Voodoo2 card, it's probably unnecessary to upgrade your primary card. However, if you have a Pentium II AGP system, upgrading to the Intel 740 (or RIVA 128ZX or Matrox G200) might be well worth it. We've begun to see titles that have huge texture sets, and some of them look spectacular on the 740 cards. OpenGL drivers are beginning to appear in beta form on most chipsets now, and we're hoping that by this fall, full ICD support will be widespread. More 3D Card Information How to Choose Here's all the information you'll need to help you decide which card to buy, like the standards, ratings, and prices for the cards in this roundup and 3D support in popular games. 3D Iron on the Horizon Hear the latest about the some 3D cards coming soon from companies like Matrox, VideoLogic/NEC, and Chromatic Research. How We Tested An explanation about the testing we do in CG Labs, and the numbers from our test results. CGW's 3D Exposed Learn more about 3D technology and what it can do for your gaming experience. Denny Atkin explains what it all means and gives some advice on choosing the right card for you. |
