*I stuck this because of the new influx of card questions. Read and enlighten yourselves.*
Ok, I and others have answered twenty-eleven billion threads on cards. Most are asking about cards I threw away years ago. Since I have so many of these cards, and know all about pixel and shader engines and such, let me break this down for anyone asking in the future.
Feel free to add your own experiences.
If you want to run GW at the bare minimum-GeForce 3 Ti, Radeon 8500, Elsa Gladiac, or Voodoo 3 3000.
If you have a card below those, please, do your computer a favor and upgrade. Not only can you not run it, you're probably using a card with inferior 2D image quality, and it may be on its last legs. Please do not ask if your Diamond Monster 2 will run GW. It isn't even a dedicated 3D card.
If you want kinda playable to decent performance, GeForce MX 4 400 (or MX 4000), GeForce 4 Ti 4200 series, Radeon 9000/9200SE/9250, GeForce FX 5200 (includes PCI versionsof the former two) and Voodoo 5/6 series. The GeForce MX series is on the crap end of playable, due to the fact that it's a buisness card, but the others should do pretty well, rest of system notwithstanding.
If you notice, I included other card manufacturers than the big two. I personally have a Voodoo 3 3000 in my emulator machine because it's got the best picture I've ever seen. Many people are still addicted to their Voodoos, and I still have my 3DFX shirt. Rawk.
At this point, there's something to be said for nVidia versus ATi. At these price levels, hardware was rather much different, and the ATi really did display a better picture and run better than the FX series until you ponied up for a 5900 Ultra or 5950 Ultra. With the x/6 series battle, it reversed. And I still don't think the X800XT is better than the 6800, mostly for scalability, and the fact that ATi simply doesn't support all the nes standards that the nVidia cards do. At this point, even if GW is a "Get in the Game" title, it will run better on nVidia. I've tested it. /end fanboyism.
For the highest level of performance, FX 5700 and up, ATi Radeon 9500 and up, and that's about it. The S3 Gammachrome cards can't do it very well, and neither can XGI. In fact, they're not even also-rans.
If you have issues-disable postprocessing first. Most systems don't like the taxation. THen AA/AF. THEN start turning down features. In this way, you'll get the best playable experience no matter what your level.
If you must run PCI, the fastest PCI card you can get is a 256MB FX5500 OC from BFG technologies. Very nice card for the interface and will play GW very well. You won't be saddened.
128 vs 256? Moot unless you're running AA/AF and postprocessing. I am, and even so, I have a 128 MB card. Below it performance will suffer as the card will have to go to system memory to execute standard operations.
If you run integrated graphics-there are onboards that will run GW. nForce 2 IGP, Intel Extreme Graphics 2/3, and Radeon IGP will all run it, at varying levels of OK. Intel Extreme Graphics 1, depending on the board, may cn be updated with the 2 driver for improved workability. But, if you have onboard graphics, seriously consider a separate card. The onboard eats whatever its shared memory size is before the system even gets to windows. Then your system is running a lot less ram than what you put in. Onboard video makes gamer Jesus cry.
At this point, the 6600 GT is the best bang for the buck for any person it's available to. It's available in AGP and PCI-E flavors, runs quiet, runs cool, and supports all the latest features including HD output. (Betcha didn't know that...) I've stated my picks for the low and midlle ends, for high end this is my pick, and I can prove it all day long. I'm running a Chaintech 6600GT PCI-E and I have never had a better card. That's even standing against my old 5900 Ultra flashed to 5950.
Hopefully this will cut down on the number of posts where we all say the same exact thing, and help unclutter this forum so that other important posts don't get buried. If you find it useful, pass it along. Maybe they'll sticky it so us tech type people can play instead of help everyone else play. (just kidding!)
Video Card Question? Look Here.
Serafita Kayin
Principa Discordia
Excellent post! Very well thought out, all points are facts instead of blurted opinion, all the choices are great, and there's many alternative brands mentioned for people who prefer one over the other.
Someone sticky this man!
As for my experiences, I've tried to run this game on the following graphics cards: -
1.) Jetway Nvidia Geforce4 MX440 AGP 64mB
2.) Sapphire ATI Radeon 9600 XT AGP 256mB - Ideal for budget users.
3.) Sapphire ATI Radeon 9800 Pro AGP 128mB
4.) Sapphire ATI Radeon X700 Pro AGP 128mB
5.) XFX Nvidia Geforce 6600GT AGP 128mB - Ideal for any users.
6.) Chaintech Nvidia Geforce 6600GT AGP 128mB - Ideal for any users.
7.) XFX Nvidia Geforce 6800 Ultra AGP 256mB
8.) Sapphire ATI Radeon X800 XT PE AGP 256mB
Note: Yes, I have a thing for Sapphire ATI cards, m'kay?
From what I've seen, the MX440 just doesn't cut it. I had to turn all the graphics down quite a lot just for it to run at any reasonable speed.
The 9600 XT runs the game fine but I wasn't very pleased with the level of detail (I'm an admitted eye-candy junkie), however this card does deliver massive performance for its age and pricetag. I would reccommend this for anybody who is held back by a budget.
The 9800 Pro (flashed to XT speeds) is where I became comfortable with both performance and visual detail. In my opinion this would be lowest card anyone should play the game with if they want it to look very pretty. This card, however, still does not cost much less than the X700/6600 series of graphics cards. This card used to be king, but today it's rather overpriced compared to its alternatives.
To me, the X700/6600 range of cards (particularly the X700 Pro and 6600GT) are absolutely perfect for this game. They can run it in the same level of detail as any X800/6800, but for a fraction of the cost. Due to its low clock speeds and less prettiness-enhancing features, however, I'm affraid I'd never reccommend the X700 Pro over the 6600GT. For anyone who can afford it, it's perfect. Fact.
Someone sticky this man!
As for my experiences, I've tried to run this game on the following graphics cards: -
1.) Jetway Nvidia Geforce4 MX440 AGP 64mB
2.) Sapphire ATI Radeon 9600 XT AGP 256mB - Ideal for budget users.
3.) Sapphire ATI Radeon 9800 Pro AGP 128mB
4.) Sapphire ATI Radeon X700 Pro AGP 128mB
5.) XFX Nvidia Geforce 6600GT AGP 128mB - Ideal for any users.
6.) Chaintech Nvidia Geforce 6600GT AGP 128mB - Ideal for any users.
7.) XFX Nvidia Geforce 6800 Ultra AGP 256mB
8.) Sapphire ATI Radeon X800 XT PE AGP 256mB
Note: Yes, I have a thing for Sapphire ATI cards, m'kay?
From what I've seen, the MX440 just doesn't cut it. I had to turn all the graphics down quite a lot just for it to run at any reasonable speed.
The 9600 XT runs the game fine but I wasn't very pleased with the level of detail (I'm an admitted eye-candy junkie), however this card does deliver massive performance for its age and pricetag. I would reccommend this for anybody who is held back by a budget.
The 9800 Pro (flashed to XT speeds) is where I became comfortable with both performance and visual detail. In my opinion this would be lowest card anyone should play the game with if they want it to look very pretty. This card, however, still does not cost much less than the X700/6600 series of graphics cards. This card used to be king, but today it's rather overpriced compared to its alternatives.
To me, the X700/6600 range of cards (particularly the X700 Pro and 6600GT) are absolutely perfect for this game. They can run it in the same level of detail as any X800/6800, but for a fraction of the cost. Due to its low clock speeds and less prettiness-enhancing features, however, I'm affraid I'd never reccommend the X700 Pro over the 6600GT. For anyone who can afford it, it's perfect. Fact.
Serafita Kayin
Bugger, forgot to add that the Matrox Parhelia can and will play Guild Wars, but not well. That's another business card that just happens to be able to do it.
And Kyro 2 owners, sorry, you're out of luck. Forgot them too. No Xabres either.
And Kyro 2 owners, sorry, you're out of luck. Forgot them too. No Xabres either.
Beradok
Serafita, I agree with your posting, but wouldn't want to count out all video cards from those lists....
Surprisingly, and I know it's only one case, but I have had amazing results using an "unsupported" vid card with GW. I also think that GW is a technical marvel when it comes to games (in terms of Alt+Tab, Bootup, and Shutdown ability), and other games under development now have something to aspire to. Either way, here's my example as to why those who are running "unsupported cards" still may have luck playing GW with decent framerates.
I currently run GW on two pcs... One a desktop, the other a laptop:
Desktop (Custom)
ASUS A7V8X motherboard
1gig pc2100 ram
AMD Athlon XP2400+ (OC'd to 2.2ghz)
BFG GeForce 6800 Ultra OC - 256mb
Laptop (Alienware Area-51m Series 1)
2.4ghz Pentium 4
512mb DDR 2100
Radeon 7500mobility - 64mb
On the desktop I'm running GW with full hi graphics, 32 bit textures, 4x aa, 1280x1024, and getting fps between 75 and 40 (large particle pvp matches).
On the LT I'm running GW with Med grphx, 32 bit textures, no aa, 1280x1024, and getting fps between 40 and 18 (large particle pvp).
While I will say I'd rather play GW or any game on my desktop with that vid card anyday, I can't say that it isn't convenient being able to play GW while comfortably sitting in bed. Right after the install on the low end (below min specs machine) I received a message stating that my vid card was unsupported. You click ok... and it takes you right into the game. Since, I have had no issues with playing on the low-end below specs machine, and it actually runs every instance of the game fairly well. And even with the lower "graphics quality", the game is still pretty as hell, and holds the full feel of GW.
I understand that there are other system specs which could skew my fps, and quality on each machine, but extraneous hardware or not, the unsupported Radeon 7500 mobility still pumps out the game without a problem.
My advice to those wondering about their own systems... If you're lucky enough to have a friend with a copy of the game that you can run a test install with.... Go for it, as you may be plesantly surprised.
And for any of you thinking about a high end upgrade... I solidly stand by the BFG version of the GeForce 6800 Ultra OC. An amazing card for the price, and as far as I can tell, seems to out perform ATI's newest member... (I've tried them both, and was an avid ATI user for a while). Also, the BFG, or 6800ultra in general, is fully ready for the new pixleshading technology hitting stores over the next 5 years. (Some games like Far-Cry, are already taking advantage of it)
Either way, good luck to you all, and thanks for the great posting Serafita.
Surprisingly, and I know it's only one case, but I have had amazing results using an "unsupported" vid card with GW. I also think that GW is a technical marvel when it comes to games (in terms of Alt+Tab, Bootup, and Shutdown ability), and other games under development now have something to aspire to. Either way, here's my example as to why those who are running "unsupported cards" still may have luck playing GW with decent framerates.
I currently run GW on two pcs... One a desktop, the other a laptop:
Desktop (Custom)
ASUS A7V8X motherboard
1gig pc2100 ram
AMD Athlon XP2400+ (OC'd to 2.2ghz)
BFG GeForce 6800 Ultra OC - 256mb
Laptop (Alienware Area-51m Series 1)
2.4ghz Pentium 4
512mb DDR 2100
Radeon 7500mobility - 64mb
On the desktop I'm running GW with full hi graphics, 32 bit textures, 4x aa, 1280x1024, and getting fps between 75 and 40 (large particle pvp matches).
On the LT I'm running GW with Med grphx, 32 bit textures, no aa, 1280x1024, and getting fps between 40 and 18 (large particle pvp).
While I will say I'd rather play GW or any game on my desktop with that vid card anyday, I can't say that it isn't convenient being able to play GW while comfortably sitting in bed. Right after the install on the low end (below min specs machine) I received a message stating that my vid card was unsupported. You click ok... and it takes you right into the game. Since, I have had no issues with playing on the low-end below specs machine, and it actually runs every instance of the game fairly well. And even with the lower "graphics quality", the game is still pretty as hell, and holds the full feel of GW.
I understand that there are other system specs which could skew my fps, and quality on each machine, but extraneous hardware or not, the unsupported Radeon 7500 mobility still pumps out the game without a problem.
My advice to those wondering about their own systems... If you're lucky enough to have a friend with a copy of the game that you can run a test install with.... Go for it, as you may be plesantly surprised.
And for any of you thinking about a high end upgrade... I solidly stand by the BFG version of the GeForce 6800 Ultra OC. An amazing card for the price, and as far as I can tell, seems to out perform ATI's newest member... (I've tried them both, and was an avid ATI user for a while). Also, the BFG, or 6800ultra in general, is fully ready for the new pixleshading technology hitting stores over the next 5 years. (Some games like Far-Cry, are already taking advantage of it)
Either way, good luck to you all, and thanks for the great posting Serafita.
Serafita Kayin
Thanks for the posting, and here's more update. For me, i just have to have my memory jogged for most of this.
Mobile chipsets-GeForce 4 Go 420 and up, ATi Mobility 7500 and up (thanks bro for the info). Intel Extreme Graphics 2 and 3 once again, though many Centrino notebooks are shipping with a graphics set that is not really much nore than a monkey with a dry-erase board, so be sure to check beforehand.
Tips for laptops-Disable postprocessing. It eats power. Power makes batteries die quicker. Battery go bye-bye in quest=t3h bad.
Also, if you have external power accessible, use it, as well as hardwired ethernet, as both disable the software used to run such as battery management and wireless connections.
For mobile gaming, try to play with a laptop cooler, so you don't run risk of making t3h fryz0rz of your computer. Also keeps you from burning important parts of your lap.
Remember too that most mobile graphics chipsets are shared, so keep that in mind before installing willy-nilly. The available system memory will b lower, so make sure you have enough.
I'll post more as I remember it...
Mobile chipsets-GeForce 4 Go 420 and up, ATi Mobility 7500 and up (thanks bro for the info). Intel Extreme Graphics 2 and 3 once again, though many Centrino notebooks are shipping with a graphics set that is not really much nore than a monkey with a dry-erase board, so be sure to check beforehand.
Tips for laptops-Disable postprocessing. It eats power. Power makes batteries die quicker. Battery go bye-bye in quest=t3h bad.
Also, if you have external power accessible, use it, as well as hardwired ethernet, as both disable the software used to run such as battery management and wireless connections.
For mobile gaming, try to play with a laptop cooler, so you don't run risk of making t3h fryz0rz of your computer. Also keeps you from burning important parts of your lap.
Remember too that most mobile graphics chipsets are shared, so keep that in mind before installing willy-nilly. The available system memory will b lower, so make sure you have enough.
I'll post more as I remember it...
EnDinG
Added the thread to the list.
Kitar
I'm not so sure a voodoo 3 3000 could run guild wars, since it lacks T and L.
Forgot to mention, this goes for the 4/5/6 series as well. Since they also lacked t and l. I'm 99% positive GW (or any modern game) won't run without transform and lighting.
I say 99%, because some games will still run without t&l (although GW isnt one of them)
Forgot to mention, this goes for the 4/5/6 series as well. Since they also lacked t and l. I'm 99% positive GW (or any modern game) won't run without transform and lighting.
I say 99%, because some games will still run without t&l (although GW isnt one of them)
Principa Discordia
Quote:
|
Originally Posted by EnDinG
Added the thread to the list.
|
*So happy.*
Edge Martinez
I hope someone reads this because I don't want to start a whole new separate thread, but I am having problems with my Intel Onboard graphics. My computer is a bit older though and only has 3 PCI expansion slots. It is a Celeron 2.0 and it has 1 GB of RAM on an ASUS board. Hey... I'm not rich I also run Windows XP, except all the XP bells and whistles are turned off (It looks like earlier Windows).
Anyhow, the game locks up every couple hours and on quests or when henchmen or animals are present, it gets real choppy.
With my PCI limit, my choice is fairly simple... ATI 9250 for the money. 128 or 256Mb doesn't really matter. For the price the 256Mb is probably the better buy. I read what was said about the card being the intermediate choice earlier, but I'm curious if anyone out there uses this card for GW and how it holds up. Please, if you are a lurker and have some info somebody should know about this card, share it.
Thank you,
Edge
I also run Windows XP, except all the XP bells and whistles are turned off (It looks like earlier Windows). Anyhow, the game locks up every couple hours and on quests or when henchmen or animals are present, it gets real choppy.
With my PCI limit, my choice is fairly simple... ATI 9250 for the money. 128 or 256Mb doesn't really matter. For the price the 256Mb is probably the better buy. I read what was said about the card being the intermediate choice earlier, but I'm curious if anyone out there uses this card for GW and how it holds up. Please, if you are a lurker and have some info somebody should know about this card, share it.
Thank you,
Edge
DrSLUGFly
an aching stirs from deep within my wallet... I'm currently surfing the internet and I've come to the conclusion that this is the most expensive game I've bought (of course, I'd have to upgrade eventually anyway)....
DrSLUGFly
okay... sorry to double post, but this isn't a comment this time, rather a question. All of your advice is very cool, thank you all very much. You seem quite tech savy, but for those of us who aren't quite so tech savy it's difficult still. I've decided on the ATI Radeon X800 (I think, if someone wishes, please advise otherwise). But here's the question:
ATI All-in-Wonder Radeon X800 XT Video Card
ATI Radeon X800XL Video Card
Sapphire RADEON X800 XL Video Card
MSI Radeon X800 XL RX800XL-VT2D256E Video Card
Connect3D Radeon X800XL Video Card
ATI Radeon X800 XL Video Card
ATI Radeon X800XT Video Card
ATI Radeon X800Pro Video Card
ATI Radeon X800 XL DVD Edition Video Card
GigaByte Radeon X800 XL Video Card
Sapphire Radeon X800 Video Card
Rosewill ATI Radeon X800XL Video Card
Sapphire Radeon X800 Pro Video Card
Sapphire Radeon X800 XT Platinum Edition Video Card
Asus Radeon X800XL Video Card
GigaByte Radeon X800 Video Card
Sapphire Radeon X800SE Video Card
Sapphire Radeon X800 XL Video Card
Sapphire Radeon X800 Pro Video Card
ATI All In Wonder Radeon X800 XL Video Card
Sapphire ATI Radeon X800 XL Video Card
Sapphire Radeon X800 Pro Video Card
SAPPHIRE ATI RADEON X800 Video Card
Powercolor ATI Radeon X800 XL Video Card
Asus Extreme Radeon X800XL Video Card
I don't get it... which one should I choose? The details listed below each of them meant little to nothing to me. Here are the details listed under each:
256 mb (all of them)
2d/3d (all of them)
TV-out or HDTV-out (most of them)
DVI (most of them, a couple with Dual DVI)
AGP 8X (most of them)
PCI-Express x16 (a few of them)
what does all this mean? Can I choose simply based on price? I want a card that will run this smoothly and beautifully as well as one that will run Black and White 2, The Movies and Fable for PC smoothly, all of which I'll be picking up when they're released in the fall.
ATI All-in-Wonder Radeon X800 XT Video Card
ATI Radeon X800XL Video Card
Sapphire RADEON X800 XL Video Card
MSI Radeon X800 XL RX800XL-VT2D256E Video Card
Connect3D Radeon X800XL Video Card
ATI Radeon X800 XL Video Card
ATI Radeon X800XT Video Card
ATI Radeon X800Pro Video Card
ATI Radeon X800 XL DVD Edition Video Card
GigaByte Radeon X800 XL Video Card
Sapphire Radeon X800 Video Card
Rosewill ATI Radeon X800XL Video Card
Sapphire Radeon X800 Pro Video Card
Sapphire Radeon X800 XT Platinum Edition Video Card
Asus Radeon X800XL Video Card
GigaByte Radeon X800 Video Card
Sapphire Radeon X800SE Video Card
Sapphire Radeon X800 XL Video Card
Sapphire Radeon X800 Pro Video Card
ATI All In Wonder Radeon X800 XL Video Card
Sapphire ATI Radeon X800 XL Video Card
Sapphire Radeon X800 Pro Video Card
SAPPHIRE ATI RADEON X800 Video Card
Powercolor ATI Radeon X800 XL Video Card
Asus Extreme Radeon X800XL Video Card
I don't get it... which one should I choose? The details listed below each of them meant little to nothing to me. Here are the details listed under each:
256 mb (all of them)
2d/3d (all of them)
TV-out or HDTV-out (most of them)
DVI (most of them, a couple with Dual DVI)
AGP 8X (most of them)
PCI-Express x16 (a few of them)
what does all this mean? Can I choose simply based on price? I want a card that will run this smoothly and beautifully as well as one that will run Black and White 2, The Movies and Fable for PC smoothly, all of which I'll be picking up when they're released in the fall.
jeffy
I had mx440 and it was friggin horrible. i have a fx 5500 now. its still better. i can see stuff i've never seen before but i have terrible lag due to 256 RAM. Also, i've heard of the PCI-EXpress thing.. its suppose to be good. All i need now is more memory.
Rogie
Those X800s will run just fine. DVI is for flatpanel LCD monitors with DVI connectors. Just make sure you choose correctly between AGP and PCI-Express, because only one of these two types will match your motherboard.
Spookadelic
Quote:
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Originally Posted by Serafita Kayin
. Onboard video makes gamer Jesus cry.
|
Axle_the_Red
am I allowed to ask if my card will work? I just bought the game and I wasnt quite sure (school will be out soon so I can test...but still...) if it will run. I dont expect perfect, because my comp isnt anywhere near that fancy, and I dont have much money...but if I can I probably will buy the cheapest card that will cut it...
anyways the card is this:
S3 Graphics Pro DDR with 32 MB VRAM
it came standard with teh comp and I seriously doubt it will work at all...but I can hope, right?
anyways the card is this:
S3 Graphics Pro DDR with 32 MB VRAM
it came standard with teh comp and I seriously doubt it will work at all...but I can hope, right?
Loviatar
you can try it and see what happensi had an s3 from creative back about 1998 i think
you can try and good luck
EnDinG
Thats the pure bottom of the barrel if you are going to use that card.
It will give you an error of no support but ignore it. You will have to run all settings on the lowest there is due to the extream lack of memory and how out of date the card is.
The game should run. Well? No idea.
It will give you an error of no support but ignore it. You will have to run all settings on the lowest there is due to the extream lack of memory and how out of date the card is.
The game should run. Well? No idea.
Pharoke
The nice thing aobut the 6600GT is it comes in both the AGP and PCIx flavors and with my Chaintech 6600GT AGP also supports DVI. Also, was able to get GW to work on a 5700Ultra and 6800Go Mobile.
Axle_the_Red
hahahahahah!!!! wow. Not even close. DONT USE AN S3!!!!
so...what kind of card would you recomend? I dont have much money...(about 50ish...) and I dont want the highest there is...so...any help?
so...what kind of card would you recomend? I dont have much money...(about 50ish...) and I dont want the highest there is...so...any help?
gentoo
Does anyone have any experience with the Radeon Mobility X300 PCI-E 64mb? These are my complete stats:
1.86ghz Pentium M
512mb DDR2 4200 - 533mhz
ATI Mobility Radeon X300 PCI-E 64mb
I don't want to buy the game if it won't run, and I know that this card isn't at the top of the charts, but is it enough to make Guild Wars nicely playable? I downloaded the client off of the Guild Wars website and the main screen (the camp with the bushes and tents, etc) seems to render okay, but I don't know how relevant that will be to actual gameplay.
1.86ghz Pentium M
512mb DDR2 4200 - 533mhz
ATI Mobility Radeon X300 PCI-E 64mb
I don't want to buy the game if it won't run, and I know that this card isn't at the top of the charts, but is it enough to make Guild Wars nicely playable? I downloaded the client off of the Guild Wars website and the main screen (the camp with the bushes and tents, etc) seems to render okay, but I don't know how relevant that will be to actual gameplay.
ElRey
@gentoo- are u kiddin me!!!! If you are running on a laptop, that should be fine! Just fine!!!!! Seriously... what laptop are you running. Wait.... lemme guess.... Dell Inspiron 6000 with Superior Graphics. Since you are using a Pentium M, im guessing its a laptop. and the X300 is a great card for a laptop. You should be able to run it just fine. On all medium settings, i get little lag on my ATI Mobility Radeon 7500 64mb card on an Inspiron 5100. The only thing you may have trouble with is that processer.... i have a 2.8 ghz p4 on mine and 512 ram, but a 1.86 pM? I dont really have experience with it. Can you report your results? Thx!
@Axle the Red- Get a Sapphire ATI Radeon 9600 256mb. Its a great card, and it runs it fine on my desktop. Its around $49.99 at newegg.com
Now my question. Will it make much of a difference if i upgrade from an ATI Radeon 7500 64 mb (for a laptop [Dell inspiron 5100 2.8 ghz p4 512 mb ram] to an ATI Radeon 9000 64 mb. Note that the 7500 doesnt have pixel shader and i think that the ATI Radeon 9000 does.
@Axle the Red- Get a Sapphire ATI Radeon 9600 256mb. Its a great card, and it runs it fine on my desktop. Its around $49.99 at newegg.com
Now my question. Will it make much of a difference if i upgrade from an ATI Radeon 7500 64 mb (for a laptop [Dell inspiron 5100 2.8 ghz p4 512 mb ram] to an ATI Radeon 9000 64 mb. Note that the 7500 doesnt have pixel shader and i think that the ATI Radeon 9000 does.
Mordeth
Quote:
|
Originally Posted by Axle_the_Red
hahahahahah!!!! wow. Not even close. DONT USE AN S3!!!!
so...what kind of card would you recomend? I dont have much money...(about 50ish...) and I dont want the highest there is...so...any help? |
Edge Martinez
Well I jumped in feet first and all I have to say is this... for folks with an HP or Compaq low end computer, like myself, who only have PCI expansion slots available, the ATI Radeon 9250 256MB card is THE WIN!
All I've upgraded on my computer is the RAM and now the video card, and GW does not crash or stutter and barely lags. (knock on wood)
My stats are:
Celeron 2.0 (1.9)
1 GB PC2700 RAM (upgraded from 256MB)
ATI 9250 256MB video card (PCI) (upgraded from the crappy Intel Onboard)
So figure for about $150 you can get a computer like the one I had online or at a tech expo. For $60-90 you can get a video card and for like $50-75 you can upgrade the RAM and have more than enough power to play GW flawlessly.
Hope this info helps people wondering about their system. Since the video card, all my ImgMem.cpp and Array.cpp errors have gone away. Good luck.
All I've upgraded on my computer is the RAM and now the video card, and GW does not crash or stutter and barely lags. (knock on wood)
My stats are:
Celeron 2.0 (1.9)
1 GB PC2700 RAM (upgraded from 256MB)
ATI 9250 256MB video card (PCI) (upgraded from the crappy Intel Onboard)
So figure for about $150 you can get a computer like the one I had online or at a tech expo. For $60-90 you can get a video card and for like $50-75 you can upgrade the RAM and have more than enough power to play GW flawlessly.
Hope this info helps people wondering about their system. Since the video card, all my ImgMem.cpp and Array.cpp errors have gone away. Good luck.
Old Dood
I have two computers that we use in this game(I bought two games too).
My "Game Box" is a Dell 4600 2.8GHZ 1.5GB ram 800 FSB. w/ 9800pro 128meg
My older Box is a Dell 4100 800MHZ 512MB ram w/ GeForce4 TI4200 128meg. The older box works fine. I just dumb down ALL the graphics. It doesn't look as bad as I thought it would. But we can play together at the same time. The Old box might take a sec or two to "show" the character but that is acceptable. It pays to have a 4mbs cable connection.
My "Game Box" is a Dell 4600 2.8GHZ 1.5GB ram 800 FSB. w/ 9800pro 128meg
My older Box is a Dell 4100 800MHZ 512MB ram w/ GeForce4 TI4200 128meg. The older box works fine. I just dumb down ALL the graphics. It doesn't look as bad as I thought it would. But we can play together at the same time. The Old box might take a sec or two to "show" the character but that is acceptable. It pays to have a 4mbs cable connection.
Dirkiess
Quote:
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Originally Posted by DrSLUGFly
okay... sorry to double post, but this isn't a comment this time, rather a question. All of your advice is very cool, thank you all very much. You seem quite tech savy, but for those of us who aren't quite so tech savy it's difficult still. I've decided on the ATI Radeon X800 (I think, if someone wishes, please advise otherwise). But here's the question:
ATI All-in-Wonder Radeon X800 XT Video Card ATI Radeon X800XL Video Card Sapphire RADEON X800 XL Video Card MSI Radeon X800 XL RX800XL-VT2D256E Video Card Connect3D Radeon X800XL Video Card ATI Radeon X800 XL Video Card ATI Radeon X800XT Video Card ATI Radeon X800Pro Video Card ATI Radeon X800 XL DVD Edition Video Card GigaByte Radeon X800 XL Video Card Sapphire Radeon X800 Video Card Rosewill ATI Radeon X800XL Video Card Sapphire Radeon X800 Pro Video Card Sapphire Radeon X800 XT Platinum Edition Video Card Asus Radeon X800XL Video Card GigaByte Radeon X800 Video Card Sapphire Radeon X800SE Video Card Sapphire Radeon X800 XL Video Card Sapphire Radeon X800 Pro Video Card ATI All In Wonder Radeon X800 XL Video Card Sapphire ATI Radeon X800 XL Video Card Sapphire Radeon X800 Pro Video Card SAPPHIRE ATI RADEON X800 Video Card Powercolor ATI Radeon X800 XL Video Card Asus Extreme Radeon X800XL Video Card I don't get it... which one should I choose? The details listed below each of them meant little to nothing to me. Here are the details listed under each: 256 mb (all of them) 2d/3d (all of them) TV-out or HDTV-out (most of them) DVI (most of them, a couple with Dual DVI) AGP 8X (most of them) PCI-Express x16 (a few of them) what does all this mean? Can I choose simply based on price? I want a card that will run this smoothly and beautifully as well as one that will run Black and White 2, The Movies and Fable for PC smoothly, all of which I'll be picking up when they're released in the fall. |
I run an X800 Pro and it runs superbly with this game. I also have 1.5gb of Ram which is a great help too. Not that it's all probably used, but will help with HDD Thrashing.
With regards to the cards above. Go for what you can afford. I recently read a review on the X800 xl where they said it seemed to be just as fast as the XT and faster than the Pro for less Money.
What i can;t remember though, is whether it was PCI Express or AGP. Remember to double check on this.
With regards to manufacturer, i prefer ASUS for my cards or Gigabyte. Ok, they may be slightly more expensive than Sapphire, but i prefer the speed of these cards over Sapphire.
For me it's a Ford or BMW choice. I choose BMW everytime.
It's up to you though, but I would go for one with at least 256mb graphics memory. Any less just doesn;t cut it with some of these games today.
I hope this helps a bit.
Night Daftshadow
if you have the money to get a top notch vid card, go for it. if not, the ati 9600 is ideal for budget gamers. i have 2 pcs. GW is installed in both of them. but the main one that i always use has the Geforce 6800 GT 256MB and it runs fantastic with GW. and because i have 1GB of ram PC3200 and Pentium 4 @3ghz. while the other comp which has ATI 9600 Pro 128MB, 1GB of ram PC2100 and Pentium 4 @ 2ghz. GW runs pretty well. although not quite good as the other which i dub "Beamer" because the case looks like a BMW M3.
Spaztastic
Would Guild Wars run on this Card?
ATI Radeon XPRESS 200
It says it's 128 MB and supports DirectX™ 9 and OpenGL™
ATI Radeon XPRESS 200
It says it's 128 MB and supports DirectX™ 9 and OpenGL™
Old Dood
Quote:
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Originally Posted by Spaztastic
Would Guild Wars run on this Card?
ATI Radeon XPRESS 200 It says it's 128 MB and supports DirectX™ 9 and OpenGL™ |
Wow this thread is old...my Game box above is now my second box (Or my Daughter's now) I have a maxed out Dell 5100 3.4Ghz FSB800 with 4Gb ram and a X800XL PCIe Vid card....
Dex
My main system is Athlon64 X2 4200+, 2GB RAM, GeForce 7800GT, so no problems there.
When I'm visiting my folks I play on a laptop that's a 1.8GHz P4, 512 MB RAM, Mobility Radeon 7500 64MB. I could run at 1024x768 with medium settings and get a little lag. I hate lag, so I run at 800x600 with low settings and get none at all. It's not as pretty, but even in large fights I don't get any chug-chug-chug. I've been playing a monk lately, so when I get lag people die...
When I'm visiting my folks I play on a laptop that's a 1.8GHz P4, 512 MB RAM, Mobility Radeon 7500 64MB. I could run at 1024x768 with medium settings and get a little lag. I hate lag, so I run at 800x600 with low settings and get none at all. It's not as pretty, but even in large fights I don't get any chug-chug-chug. I've been playing a monk lately, so when I get lag people die...
kleetes
Anyone ever try the Leadtek A6200 TDH (128 MB, 64 Mb interface) and have success. Bios is all set-up properly. Have ASUS A7V133 Mobo so it's set to run at 4X AGP (max for this mobo). Have AMB 1900+ CPU and have 512 MB of RAM.
Game runs great for up to 5 minutes then dies with C000005. Wondering if GW is just not compatible with the graphics card.
Would go into long description of all that has been done (new ram, mulitple driver configs, etc), but ... just trying to eliminate some variables. If anyone has ever gotten this card to work, maybe there's still hope.
Game runs great for up to 5 minutes then dies with C000005. Wondering if GW is just not compatible with the graphics card.
Would go into long description of all that has been done (new ram, mulitple driver configs, etc), but ... just trying to eliminate some variables. If anyone has ever gotten this card to work, maybe there's still hope.
Semper
hows the 9800 PRO 128 mb do with gw?
Josh
Semper, if my 9250 128MB runs it fine with max detail, a 9800 PRO should run it even better.
Serafita Kayin
An update to this thread-
I've had quite a few cards pass through my hands/systems, and I've got news on others as well, since we need a X/X1k/7 series update as well, I'll roll it all into one.
Cards I've used-
5200 128MB AGP-using it ATM on the kids' machine. Plays, had to turn down most options. I hate turning down options.
X300 non-SE non-HyperMemory 128 MB-turn almost everything up, just a few stutters, nice card.
6200 128MB AGP-ran it really well. If you're on a budget, this is NICE.
6200 128 MB PCIE-same as above, but we modded it to 6600GT specs for not a lot of money, google the mod if you're interested, was simple software...
6600GT 128 MB AGP-just like my 6600GT PCIE, but got a little warmer with the HSI chip being involved.
X600XT 128 MB PCIE-all options on, postprocessing, and nice resolutions. Mine ran warm though. Just a warning, make sure you have the airflow.
X700 Pro 256 MB PCIE-Almost the exact same as above, just more expensive.
X850 XT PE 256 MB AGP-as above, but offers higher resolutions. One of the best on the AGP platform.
6800 128MB AGP-handles it fine, price is falling into the sub 150 range, awesome upgrade for the price.
Intel GMA900 dynamic shared (32-256 MB)-first onboard to capably do GW. Still ain't worth using, as you still can't run it too hard. Also can cause system to overheat.
As far as the OK to use listing, and what will do what, new cards to add...
ATi-the big news is the X1k series, which even the X1300 ghetto-blaster found on the floor version will play admirably on this game. The better it is, the better it will play. Avoid the 512 MB versions for all but the 1800 and 1900, the others can't use all that RAM.
nVidia-the 7 series is just as amazing, with the 7300 and 7800 already out, soon to be joined by 74, 76, and 7900. As before, even the 7300 from the cereal box prize will play this game, so buy with impunity.
In more interesting news, the S3 DeltaChrome series is iffy on the ability, though if driver support comes through, they'll do it acceptably well. Their big market is in HTPC and DVD playback, where they EASILY beat the big two.
When I get more, I'll tell you more...
I've had quite a few cards pass through my hands/systems, and I've got news on others as well, since we need a X/X1k/7 series update as well, I'll roll it all into one.
Cards I've used-
5200 128MB AGP-using it ATM on the kids' machine. Plays, had to turn down most options. I hate turning down options.
X300 non-SE non-HyperMemory 128 MB-turn almost everything up, just a few stutters, nice card.
6200 128MB AGP-ran it really well. If you're on a budget, this is NICE.
6200 128 MB PCIE-same as above, but we modded it to 6600GT specs for not a lot of money, google the mod if you're interested, was simple software...
6600GT 128 MB AGP-just like my 6600GT PCIE, but got a little warmer with the HSI chip being involved.
X600XT 128 MB PCIE-all options on, postprocessing, and nice resolutions. Mine ran warm though. Just a warning, make sure you have the airflow.
X700 Pro 256 MB PCIE-Almost the exact same as above, just more expensive.
X850 XT PE 256 MB AGP-as above, but offers higher resolutions. One of the best on the AGP platform.
6800 128MB AGP-handles it fine, price is falling into the sub 150 range, awesome upgrade for the price.
Intel GMA900 dynamic shared (32-256 MB)-first onboard to capably do GW. Still ain't worth using, as you still can't run it too hard. Also can cause system to overheat.
As far as the OK to use listing, and what will do what, new cards to add...
ATi-the big news is the X1k series, which even the X1300 ghetto-blaster found on the floor version will play admirably on this game. The better it is, the better it will play. Avoid the 512 MB versions for all but the 1800 and 1900, the others can't use all that RAM.
nVidia-the 7 series is just as amazing, with the 7300 and 7800 already out, soon to be joined by 74, 76, and 7900. As before, even the 7300 from the cereal box prize will play this game, so buy with impunity.
In more interesting news, the S3 DeltaChrome series is iffy on the ability, though if driver support comes through, they'll do it acceptably well. Their big market is in HTPC and DVD playback, where they EASILY beat the big two.
When I get more, I'll tell you more...
war lord king
i lkie ure thread very informative
Blade Rez
One thing I'd like to point out that you touched on briefly is the XGI cards.
These cards XGI Volari cards, in benchmarks will score better than many budget ATI/nVidia cards for nearly half the price. The problem is with their crap drivers, even though your FPS may be good, you will see a lot of stutters.
Also, now for a budget gamer that is willing to do some tweaking. There is the x800gto2 from sapphire. Using ATI Tools you can unlock the locked 4 pixel pipes to get 16 pixel pipes, then overclock. This means a 180ish dollar card=x850xtPE
These cards XGI Volari cards, in benchmarks will score better than many budget ATI/nVidia cards for nearly half the price. The problem is with their crap drivers, even though your FPS may be good, you will see a lot of stutters.
Also, now for a budget gamer that is willing to do some tweaking. There is the x800gto2 from sapphire. Using ATI Tools you can unlock the locked 4 pixel pipes to get 16 pixel pipes, then overclock. This means a 180ish dollar card=x850xtPE
Alias_X
I ran GW max settings with 256mb of ram, GeForce 2 MX 400, and a 1.7ghz P4 processor. It ran fine. There really is not bottom line. You can listen to benchmarks, but all the benchmarks I saw told me my system didn't have a chance of running GW, yet it ran GW on max.
LouAl
Does anyone know about the nVidia 7600gt?
I know it will run GW just fine (I am upgrading from a ati x300 that runs GW with everything turned on without choppiness or stutter), but I would like to see if anyone knows anything about that card - if it runs hot, if it is loud (pretty sure that it is), if it displays well, etc.
I would really like to get the 7900gt but it would mean a new motherboard (that can handle more power), a new power supply, a new case to put it all in...blast dell and their proprietary components!
I know it will run GW just fine (I am upgrading from a ati x300 that runs GW with everything turned on without choppiness or stutter), but I would like to see if anyone knows anything about that card - if it runs hot, if it is loud (pretty sure that it is), if it displays well, etc.
I would really like to get the 7900gt but it would mean a new motherboard (that can handle more power), a new power supply, a new case to put it all in...blast dell and their proprietary components!
Serafita Kayin
7600 is gonna run all settings max at a nice resolution, be a low power draw and run cool. It's a fine card. My x1900 XTX just bit it, I may SLI two of those AND get a new mobo with the refund...
Blade Rez
Serafita, god dam it x1900xtx? Jesus christ man just buy another lol..... btw what is your current mobo?
Mamabear
I'm hoping one of you "techie types" can help me with a problem I've had since the induction of GWEN to my new system. My new (son made) computer has been totally freezing up during my runs in GWEN. My son builds computers for his work in an engineering firm, so is pretty familiar with the runnings of GW etc.
Anyway, I have an "EVGA 234-P2-N751-TR GeForce 8600GT 256MB GDDR3 PCI Expressx16 Video Card", Thermaltake TR2 W0070UC kATX 430W power supply, Corsair SMS2 2GB (2 x 1GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 800 (PC2 6400) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory Model TWIN2X2048-6400C4, GIGABYTE GA-M61P-S3 Socket AM2 NVIDA GeForce 6100 ATX AMD Motherboard, AMD Athlon 64 X2 6000+Windsor 3.0GHz Socket AM2 Processor Model ADX6000CZBOX, Western Digital Caviar SE WD1600JS 160GB 7200 RPM SATA 3.0Gb/s Hard Drive- OEM, running Microsoft Windows SP Professional with SP2B ! Pcak-OEM,.
My game has been, at least once a day, totally freezing up, I can't type, ( like the /stuck thing) or "X" out of the game or even ctrl/alt/delete. I have to totally reboot and reload to get it moving again. Most of the time I'm in a fight or in the process of getting to somewhere else to fight.
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Anyway, I have an "EVGA 234-P2-N751-TR GeForce 8600GT 256MB GDDR3 PCI Expressx16 Video Card", Thermaltake TR2 W0070UC kATX 430W power supply, Corsair SMS2 2GB (2 x 1GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 800 (PC2 6400) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory Model TWIN2X2048-6400C4, GIGABYTE GA-M61P-S3 Socket AM2 NVIDA GeForce 6100 ATX AMD Motherboard, AMD Athlon 64 X2 6000+Windsor 3.0GHz Socket AM2 Processor Model ADX6000CZBOX, Western Digital Caviar SE WD1600JS 160GB 7200 RPM SATA 3.0Gb/s Hard Drive- OEM, running Microsoft Windows SP Professional with SP2B ! Pcak-OEM,.
My game has been, at least once a day, totally freezing up, I can't type, ( like the /stuck thing) or "X" out of the game or even ctrl/alt/delete. I have to totally reboot and reload to get it moving again. Most of the time I'm in a fight or in the process of getting to somewhere else to fight.
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.