PeterPan's Unofficial System Requirements Guide

[PeterPan]

War unofficial system requirements guide

To see my guide on building a cheap WAR PC follow this link:
http://www.warhammeralliance.com/forums/showthread.php?p=659932#post659932

Updated 8-11-2008
UPDATE:
Official system requirements for this game were released nearly 2 weeks ago, the thread has been revised twice since then, 8-2-08 then 8-11-08


Official System Requirements From Mythic

For Windows XP
2.5 GHz P4 processor or equivalent
1 Gigabyte RAM
A 128 MB Video Card, with support for Pixel Shader 2.0
At least 15 GB of hard drive space

For Windows VISTA
2.5 GHz P4 processor or equivalent
2 Gigabyte RAM
A 128 MB Video Card, with support for Pixel Shader 2.0
At least 15 GB of hard drive space

Officially supported video cards:
Note: This does NOT mean these are the only cards that will work. It means they are the only cards they offer tech support for. Off brand card's like S3 should have no problems running this game.

Supported Video Cards:

ATI Radeon(TM) series

· 9500, 9600, 9800
· X300, X600, X700, X800, X850
· X1300, X1600, X1800, X1900, X1950
· 2400, 2600, 2900,
· 3650, 3850, 3870
· 4850, 4870

NVIDIA GeForce series

· FX 5900, FX 5950
· 6600, 6800,
· 7600, 7800, 7900, 7950
· 8400, 8500, 8600, 8800
· 9400, 9500, 9600, 9800
· GTX 260, GTX 280

Intel(R) Extreme Graphics

· GMA X4500

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

I will start this guide by first introducing its purpose. The purpose of this guide is to educate the average PC user on 3D graphics cards, their purpose and what you need to play Warhammer Online

Official vendor websites:

ATI: http://ati.amd.com/products/index.html

Nvidia: http://www.nvidia.com/page/home.html

S3 Graphics: http://chromezone.s3graphics.com/

Intel: www.intel.com

The first thing you need to understand when buying a video card is,

1)Can my pc use this graphics card?
2)Does my power supply have enough electrical output to support this graphics card
3)Can I afford this graphics card?

To decide these things for yourself, please scroll to the bottom and read the Q&A

For the sake of the casual PC user I will break cards down into sectors of power and class. One common mis-conception on graphics cards is that “a high number means it is better” sometimes it can be quite the opposite.

Take in mind screen resolution is also a factor on game speed. A game running 1024x768 will run much faster than a game running 1440x900. The stats for these games have been based off a middle ground resolution such as 1280x1024

Class 1 Cards, The Super Heroes: Class 1 Cards will rock your world, you will be able to play everything on max settings on almost any modern PC game with these bad boys of gaming. Expect 70+ fps (as long as the rest of your system is up to par)

Nvidia Geforce 9800 Series - (All Versions) DX10 PCI-E

Nvidia Geforce 8800 Series - (All Versions) DX10 PCI-E

Nvidia Geforce 9600 Series - (All Versions) DX10 PCI-E

ATI Radeon HD 3800 Series - (All versions) DX10 PCI-E or AGP

ATI Radeon HD 2900 Series - (All versions) DX10 PCI-E

Nvidia Geforce GTX 260, GTX 280 Series - (All versions) PCI-E

ATI Radeon 4850, 4870 Series - (All versions) PCI-E


-----
Class 2 Cards, The Tough Guys: With these tough guys you will be able to run on max, or at least very high and your probably not going to be lagging much either on the newest games Expect 40-60fps. (as long as the rest of your system is up to par)

ATI Radeon HD 3650 Series (All versions) DX10 PCI-E - Slightly cheaper than the Geforce 8600, and more powerful in general.

Nvidia Geforce 8600 Series - (All Versions) DX10 PCI-E If your getting this card, I recommend the XFX Fatal1ty version.

ATI Radeon HD 2600 Series - (All versions) DX10 AGP and PCI-E

Nvidia Geforce 7800/7900 Series - (All versions) DX9 AGP and PCI-E

Radeon X1900/X1950 Series (All versions) DX9 AGP and PCI-E

Nvidia Geforce 7600 Series (All versions) DX9 AGP and PCI-E Old, but still strong.

ATI Radeon X1600/1650 Series (All versions) DX9 AGP and PCI-E Old, but still strong.

ATI Radeon X800 Series (All versions) DX9 AGP and PCI-E Old, but still strong.

S3 Chrome 440 Series - (All versions) DX10 PCI-E

ATI Radeon HD 3450 Series (All versions) DX10 PCI-E Should get you by on medium.

Nvidia Geforce 8500 Series - (All Versions) PCI-E About the same as the above card.
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Class 3 Cards, The Average Guys These are the average guys, they can probably handle medium settings and medium resolution, you might have to turn a few settings down on low. Tweaked properly these could probably maintain a 30ish fps on most modern games. (as long as the rest of your system is up to par)


Nvidia Geforce 8400 Series (All versions) DX10 PCI-E Should get you by on medium.

S3 Chrome 430 Series - (All versions) DX10 PCI-E Should get you by on medium.

ATI Radeon HD 2400 Series (All versions) DX10 PCI-E

Nvidia Geforce 6800 Series (All versions) DX9 AGP and PCI-E

Intel GMA X4500 Integrated Graphics

S3 Chrome S27 (All versions) (DX9) PCI-E If you can actually find one of these rare cards I think it would do alright on the game.

ATI Radeon X1300 Series (All versions) DX9 AGP and PCI-E

Radeon X1550 Series (All versions) DX9 PCI, PCI-E and AGP

Nvidia Geforce FX5900/5950 Series (All versions) DX9 AGP and PCI-E

ATI Radeon 9800 Series (All versions) DX9 AGP

ATI Radeon X700 Series (All versions) (DX9) AGP and PCI-E

Nvidia Geforce FX5800 Series (All versions) DX9 AGP This card is as low as I would go and still expect general playability on lower medium.

Nvidia Geforce 6600 Series (All versions) DX9 AGP and PCI-E This card is as low as I would go and still expect general playability on lower medium.
------

Class 4 Cards, The Weak Guys
These guys are a little to weak for Warhammer online, but may get you by on World of Warcraft.

ATI Radeon 9600/9700 Series (All versions) DX9 AGP

Geforce FX5600/5700 Series (All versions) DX9 AGP

Nvidia Geforce 7200/7300 Series (All versions) DX9 AGP and PCI-E

Nvidia Geforce 7100 Series Integrated

Intel GMA X3000 Integrated

S3 GammaChrome S18 Series (All versions) DX9 AGP
------

Class 5 Cards, The Deceased
The dead guys... these cards either won't run any modern game very well or will probably get you unplayable FPS. No amount of tweaking is going to same these death bed ridden and sickly old men.

Intel GMA 900-950 (Integrated graphics) (DX9) Integrated

Nvidia Geforce 6100 (Integrated Graphics) (DX9) Integrated

ATI Radeon 9500 (All versions) (DX9) AGP

Nvidia Geforce FX5200/FX5500 Series (All versions) DX9 PCI and AGP

S3 DeltaChrome S8 Series (All versions) DX9 PCI-E

Nvidia Geforce 6200/6400 Series (All versions) DX9 PCI, PCI-E and AGP

ATI Radeon X600 - X550 Series (All versions) DX9 AGP

ATI Radeon X1050 Series (All versions) DX9 PCI-E

Intel GMA 800-850 (Integrated Graphics) DX8/DX9

S3 Delta Chrome S4 (Only one version) DX9

S3 Chrome 9 (Integrated Graphics) DX9

ATI Radeon 9200 Series (All versions) DX9

Geforce 2,3 and 4 Series (All versions) DX7/DX8

Voodoo Graphics (All versions) DX6/DX7

ATI Rage (All versions) DX7

S3 Savage/Virge/Trio (All versions) DX6/DX7

[b]Commonly asked questions:

What is a video card?

A video card, (also referred to as a graphics accelerator card, display adapter, graphics card, and numerous other terms), is an item of personal computer hardware whose function is to generate and output images to a display.

The term is usually used to refer to a separate, dedicated expansion card that is plugged into a slot on the computer's motherboard, as opposed to a graphics controller integrated into the motherboard chipset.

What is Video memory?

If the video card is integrated in the motherboard, it will use the computer RAM memory (lower throughput). If it is not integrated, the video card will have its own video memory which is called Video RAM or VRAM. The VRAM capacity of most modern video cards range from 128 to 1024 MB (workstation graphics cards). In 2006, the VRAM was based on DDR technology, standing out DDR2, GDDR3 and GDDR4. The memory clock rate is between 400 MHz and 1.6 GHz. A very important element of the video memory is the Z-buffer, which manages the depth coordinates in 3D graphics.


What is PCI-E

PCI Express, officially abbreviated as PCI-E or PCIe is a computer expansion card interface format. It was designed as a much faster interface to replace PCI, PCI-X (abbreviated from PCI eXtended) for interface cards as well as AGP interfaces for graphics cards. In recent years it has become the standard slowly phasing out AGP.


What is AGP?

The Accelerated Graphics Port (also called Advanced Graphics Port, often shortened to AGP) is a high-speed point-to-point channel for attaching a graphics card to a computer's motherboard, primarily to assist in the acceleration of 3D computer graphics. AGP is becoming an extinct format, but do not fear! Both Nvidia and ATI have confirmed Direct X 10 cards are on there way for this format. They will probably be the last however.

Can I run a PCI-E card in an AGP slot or vice versa?

No

What is video ram?

Video ram comes in 2 flavors ddr2(older) and ddr3(newer). Todays games typically demand the minimum of 256mb ddr2, with 512mb ddr3 recommended.

What is bus width?

Bus width comes in 3 flavors, 64 bit (cheap), 128 bit (useable/average), and 256bit (recommended for hardcore gamer). The higher the bus width the faster your pc can transfer 3D game data.

Can my power supply handle this graphics card?

If you have an expensive graphics card, and a budget power supply the answer might be "no". You should compair the power output of your power supply to the graphics card your buying if you feel unsure. Typically the more powerful the graphics card the more power it requires. If your graphics card doesn't have the proper socket type you can easily buy a power adapter at websites such as newegg.

Please feel free to add any additional questions to this thread and I will be happy to answer them.

[DaddysGirl]

Wow, thank you soooo much!!

I never knew exactly how good my video card was (nvidia 7600) until your post. Now I know I will be ok!

thanks again:mrgreen:

EDIT: Oh and I forgot to ask, when I ran dxdiag.exe, and looked at the display tab where the graphics card was shown; under Approx Total Memory it says 256.0 MB and i heard that was pretty low. Is there any way to change it higher under some setting?

Maybe you have the answer?

[Rowhin]

I would tend to set the RAM bar higher...make it 1 GB minimum, 2 recommended. That is what MMOs rely most heavily on. WoW got laggy already with 512 mb sometimes, and the battles I'd like to see in WAR will probably require a good bit more of RAM.

[PeterPan]

I would tend to set the RAM bar higher...make it 1 GB minimum, 2 recommended. That is what MMOs rely most heavily on. WoW got laggy already with 512 mb sometimes, and the battles I'd like to see in WAR will probably require a good bit more of RAM.Well yes, but I believe they are aiming for a 512 minimum, I will change it when I get more information on the final system requirements.

EDIT: I have updated and listed Vista and XP requirements differently.

[Dyst]

I'm not so sure on that RAM Rowhin, I got 1k but at highest settings I never ever lagged in WoW, at all.

I doubt I will have any problems with lag in WAR either, at least not cuz of RAM.. I seriously doubt 2k is "recommended", I can figure sometimes 1k can make it slightly laggy in huge battles but really not worth setting recommended over.

[Brolly]

It is true that no one knows the OFFICIAL system requirements for this game. But judging by what ive been told of the beta, what ive seen of the game, and when I played it briefly an e3. Combining that with my advanced knowledge of computers (im a microcomputer repair technician, and have a degree from LTC).

You seem to have put a lot of work in that post, but still, breaking the NDA (even if you are not in the Beta) is a nono.

[PeterPan]

I believe it will be recommended for Vista (not xp) because Vista is such a resource hog.

EDIT: No violations of the NDA were violated, I do not own a beta account. These are simpaly very detailed estimations made with my own knolwedge and general public information of the game.

I have updated and edited the introduction text to clarify this.

[Quickfoot]

Thanks for this. Especially the video card part. I figured out I have a "weak guy" of a video card and hopefully will be able to upgrade to "tough guy". Other than that my computer should be safe. Haven't even had it for a year yet.

[The Disciple]

Nice thread and personally I think nice estimates on what the games requirements will be.

I agree both with yourself and Rowhin. WAR might advertise on release the games minimum RAM will be 512mb but with the Open Warfare element I think it should be advised that a 1GB ram would be minimum.

Altogether tho a nice thread for anyone who wants a rough idea on what they should expect the gaming reguirments to be (I myself am classed as a 'tough guy' with my 7600GT graphics card lol, altho I personally hope to upgrade before the games release..never know sp1 might make vista viable OS for gaming).

[Tools2Basic]

I don't really have much to ad. Well written and (probably) accurate specs, i do believe that 1GB RAM is more fit as a min but 512 will probably be playable in less populated areas.

[Taurth]

...Would you be able to recommend the best Motherboard/Processor combo?

I'm gonna get one of those top graphics cards but I'll have to upgrade pretty much all my PC.

Thanks by the way, that write-up helps alot.

EDIT: I'm not gonna be upgrading my PC, I'm just gonna buy all the best parts and put a new one together.

EDIT 2: Is vista worth getting?

[linuxnacrot]

Awesome guide, even though its just speculation I'm assuming they req's will be somewhere close to what you estimate. I got a quesiton tho. My computers crap right now but i can easily upgrade my RAM and Video card, what about the processor? can i replace that too or do i have to get a new comp?

[Dagoth]

I´ll have to update my good ol Radeon 9600 it seems.

PD: You linked to AMD instead of ATI

[peacman]

I didnt know that WAR would support DX10. Thanks! (Kinda anoying since i have a XP)
Anyways, I got a 8600 GTS 512 ram, i can run timeshift on highest graphics, Crysis on medium/high graphics, dont you think i will be able to pull the highest graphics off in WAR aswell? (Please say yes) :mrgreen:

[Ashanor]

You seem to have put a lot of work in that post, but still, breaking the NDA (even if you are not in the Beta) is a nono.

If you went to a game show to play you are allowed to speak freely about whatever you want. People go to the shows and write reviews all the time, are they breaking the NDA?

Personally I think the NDA should be removed anyway, when I was waiting on WoW to release and I hadn't got in beta yet (prior to march 04) it was a hell of a lot more fun being on the outside than it is with WAR because people were constantly talking on boards with beta testers and they were allowed to say whatever they wanted, whether it was good or bad.

[dutch_gamer]

I didnt know that WAR would support DX10. Thanks! (Kinda anoying since i have a XP)
Anyways, I got a 8600 GTS 512 ram, i can run timeshift on highest graphics, Crysis on medium/high graphics, dont you think i will be able to pull the highest graphics off in WAR aswell? (Please say yes) :mrgreen:

Not sure where you read that about DX10. The only thing I got out of the OP is that you can play the game with a DX10 videocard. However, based on information from Mythic we know that the game is made as a DX9 game, not DX10. They may eventually patch up with DX10 support, but the game isn't made with DX10 in mind.

Also, I find it highly unlikely that you wouldn't be able to play WAR on highest settings. When you can play Crysis on almost the highest settings, then of course you can do the same thing with WAR. WAR isn't exactly a game with the latest graphics, which is very obvious when you look at the screenshots and gameplay videos. Don't get me wrong, it doesn't mean the game looks bad, far from it.

I think the OP is pretty much spot on about the videocards, not so sure about the CPU speeds though.

[PeterPan]

Awesome guide, even though its just speculation I'm assuming they req's will be somewhere close to what you estimate. I got a quesiton tho. My computers crap right now but i can easily upgrade my RAM and Video card, what about the processor? can i replace that too or do i have to get a new comp?Find out what the socket type is and usually you can find an upgrade that will fit in that socket. Like a 1.5ghz P4 could be upgraded to a 2.5ghz P4 if the sockets are the same.

I´ll have to update my good ol Radeon 9600 it seems.

PD: You linked to AMD instead of ATIATI is now a division of AMD after last years buy out.



Would you be able to recommend the best Motherboard/Processor combo?

I'm gonna get one of those top graphics cards but I'll have to upgrade pretty much all my PC.

Thanks by the way, that write-up helps alot.

EDIT: I'm not gonna be upgrading my PC, I'm just gonna buy all the best parts and put a new one together.

EDIT 2: Is vista worth getting?I can't really make recommendations on the best mobo/cpu combo because for alot of people its a matter of opinion. Right now Vista isn't worth it but in the next year or two when DX10 games start coming out in larger numbers it will be.

[The Disciple]

However, based on information from Mythic we know that the game is made as a DX9 game, not DX10. They may eventually patch up with DX10 support, but the game isn't made with DX10 in mind.

Just want to back up with what dutch_gamer is saying. From what the devs had shared with us the game is made for DX9 in mind not DX10.

[PeterPan]

It means the cards support DX10, it doesn't mean you have to have it for WAR.

DX10 cards also support DX9

[Dagoth]

ATI is now a division of AMD after last years buy out.


I wonder why I never heard about this.

[PeterPan]

S3 graphics has also made a come back, they have been out of the picture since their bankrupsy in 2001.

[Ashanor]

I wonder why I never heard about this.It's old news, you should have heard.

AMD Buys Out ATI The much rumored acquisition is official. Details, and Intel's quick response.
by Gerry Block (gear_mail@ign.com) http://media.ign.com/ign/images/readmyblog.gif (http://blogs.ign.com/Gerry-IGN/)

July 24, 2006 - After months of rumor, it's finally official. Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) has officially announced that it will purchase ATI, the well known graphics-accelerator designer. AMD will be paying $5.8 billion in a mixture of cash and stock shares to complete the acquisition, a 24% premium over ATI's last closing market price before the announcement was made.

Market analysts agree that AMD's decision will likely pay off in the long-term, as the ATI acquisition will give AMD greater inroads with major PC manufacturers like Dell. AMD will now have the ability to offer such manufacturers integrated graphics options with its CPUs, similar to what archrival Intel already offers. A more integrated supply chain will also benefit AMD's relationship with PC manufacturers due to consequent cost-savings in the low-margin PC sales market.

ATI stock jumped significantly in early trading based upon the news. The company's stock, which went as low as $12.40 per share in the last year, is now trading at $22.37, up nearly 20% on the day. AMD stock, on the other hand, is trending down on the news, presently off 5% at $17.40 a share.

AMD investors worry that the ATI deal may have cost the company too dearly. No other companies bid on ATI, and some analysts have asserted that AMD paid too much. ATI's worth as a company on the stock exchange is equivalent to 28 times its projected earnings next year, while AMD's ratio is only 15 times. Companies in the Standard & Poor's 500 trade at 14 times--a benchmark for more conservative investors. As such, ATI is considered a risky investment for AMD.

Investors are also worrying about the ongoing battle between AMD and Intel in general CPU sales. Both companies are producing more chips than are currently in demand and are locked in a struggle to continuously outdo the other in chip cost and performance. Both companies are racing to release the next generation of quad-core CPUs and are relying heavily upon strong sales in the fourth-quarter to make up for a slow summer. Some question whether AMD will be able to maintain its focus upon its core business in this critical period while also absorbing ATI.

Intel responded to the news today by terminating ATI's (now essentially AMD's) license to produce chipsets for Intel CPUs. Bit-tech.net speculates that Intel will likely not disable ATI Cross-Fire support on Core 2 Duo motherboards as this would hurt the gaming-focused chip's sales. It's also unlikely that AMD will make Cross-Fire ATI cards incompatible with other Intel chipsets either, as this would hurt ATI's sales.

As such, it's unlikely we'll see a massive divide develop between rival pairings such as AMD-ATI vs. Intel-Nvidia, unless, of course, Intel feels threatened enough to feel the need to buy-out Nvidia. The stock-market's reaction to the AMD-ATI news will likely dissuade Intel from making such a move.

From the gamer's perspective, the AMD buyout of ATI is likely neutral, if not positive news. ATI may well benefit from AMD's expertise in producing advanced and multi-core processors, which could certainly up the ante in GPU development. Whether or not ATI may begin to produce its own chips at AMD foundries remains to be seen, but more likely than not, the company will continue to operate as a fabrication-less designer.

[Aqe]

Dammit... i hate threads i want to reply to but cant. Just sit and write a few replies and delete them as its against NDA...

If you read the reports from Dreamhack they couldn't do any PvP the first day because the PC's Order side ran on only had 1Gb Ram. PvE was fine.

[PeterPan]

I've heard the same from my rumaging around, I changed it.

[Qvark]

Dammit... i hate threads i want to reply to but cant. Just sit and write a few replies and delete them as its against NDA...

If you read the reports from Dreamhack they couldn't do any PvP the first day because the PC's Order side ran on only had 1Gb Ram. PvE was fine.

They are most likely still optimizing the game, so that might be better at release.

[Thor123]

It will help to have at least 1 GIG worth of RAM. I mean you can buy a pack with two 1G RAM each on Newegg for about 60-80 dollars.

Also it would not hurt to upgrade since, well its a computer and if you want to play with at least medium settings with lots of people and things on the screen 1-1.5G would be a good idea.

[insurection]

ok. am i just fing screwed with my 3 year old piece of crap comp? i got 510mb of ram and 15gb of free space. but i am running with a NVIDIA GeForce4 440 Go 64M graphics card an my processer is a AMD Athlon(tm) 64 Processor 3000+, MMX, 3DNow, ~790MHz. so since none of my specs is on your list i am pretty much thinking that i am screwed. but i used to play the terribe world of warcraft game and ran the crazy 40manAQ raids fine with little to no lag. so again am i just screwed?:(

[SKYeXile]

whats my PC rated as with 2x "hero" cards o.O

[VermillioN]

whats my PC rated as with 2x "hero" cards o.O

Legendary :D

[Dram]

ok. am i just fing screwed with my 3 year old piece of crap comp? i got 510mb of ram and 15gb of free space. but i am running with a NVIDIA GeForce4 440 Go 64M graphics card an my processer is a AMD Athlon(tm) 64 Processor 3000+, MMX, 3DNow, ~790MHz. so since none of my specs is on your list i am pretty much thinking that i am screwed. but i used to play the terribe world of warcraft game and ran the crazy 40manAQ raids fine with little to no lag. so again am i just screwed?:(

1. Your processor should be fine.

2. You need a new video card. Make sure you get the correct type (AGP or PCI). You can get a lower end one for $100 or so.

3. Upgrading RAM is cheap. You will need 512 minimum more .

4. You appear to have enough hard drive space. You could always get another hard drive for $75 or so.

5. Regarding your post - capital letters, etc, would be nice, since it makes it easier for other to help you ;).

You could likely get by with $150-275 or so, $100 for the video card and $40 for the RAM with an additional $20 to have somebody install it. I would also check and see if your power supply can handle the new stuff (my guess is that it shouldn't be a problem).

I would wait until the game comes out as you will have a better idea regarding the specs. The above poster is making a useful attempt to estimate the performance one will obtain from different specs, but we will know more upon release.

[Quazar]

You gotta show the difference between Laptop cards and Desktop cards.

An Nvidia Go 7600 =/= Nvidia 7600

Maybe you want to put those cards in the power rating as well. O and the Nvidia 6600/6800 GT can hang with some of the Class 2 cards IMHO.

[Retribution]

my computer is almost past that spec, cept for the RAM but that can be easily solved. I think i'll wait for the official one, since from my experience on waiting for games to come out seems to be everyone misses the plot and goes WAY too high on the specs, usually.

[Engle]

My question is how does WAR deal with multi cores? Is a dual or quad any better then a single core processor for WAR?

[peacman]

Not sure where you read that about DX10. The only thing I got out of the OP is that you can play the game with a DX10 videocard. However, based on information from Mythic we know that the game is made as a DX9 game, not DX10. They may eventually patch up with DX10 support, but the game isn't made with DX10 in mind.

Also, I find it highly unlikely that you wouldn't be able to play WAR on highest settings. When you can play Crysis on almost the highest settings, then of course you can do the same thing with WAR. WAR isn't exactly a game with the latest graphics, which is very obvious when you look at the screenshots and gameplay videos. Don't get me wrong, it doesn't mean the game looks bad, far from it.

I think the OP is pretty much spot on about the videocards, not so sure about the CPU speeds though.

My mistake about the DX10, i missread, and thanks for filling me up >.<

[Shillen]

I will be amazed if even the best possible computer will be able to max out the settings during a mass PvP battle and have 70+ FPS. I would be amazed if you got 30 FPS.

[Guur]

Just built a new computer for WAR.

600g hard drive, 2g ram, nvidia 8600gt, quad core psu, water cooling, razer keyboard and mouse, samsung 19" monitor, vista ultimate, not the best set up but it'lll do.

I could due with a nice speaker system and perhaps a 30" screen, and maybe an 8800gtx.

[Engle]

Just built a new computer for WAR.

600g hard drive, 2g ram, nvidia 8600gt, quad core psu, water cooling, razer keyboard and mouse, samsung 19" monitor, vista ultimate, not the best set up but it'lll do.

I could due with a nice speaker system and perhaps a 30" screen, and maybe an 8800gtx.

Why quad? I have not been able to find where WAR will be able to support multi core. If you know WAR can support multi core please let me know where you found that infomation. Water cooling is not needed at all unless you plan to overclock or just want a quieter machine. I would also stay away from Vista until SP2 is released for it and even then, I would only go to Vista if you have a DX10 GFX card and 4GB RAM to make the change from XP really worth it.

[Fruitpunch]

I'm not so sure on that RAM Rowhin, I got 1k but at highest settings I never ever lagged in WoW, at all.

I doubt I will have any problems with lag in WAR either, at least not cuz of RAM.. I seriously doubt 2k is "recommended", I can figure sometimes 1k can make it slightly laggy in huge battles but really not worth setting recommended over.

Same here. My preccesor is and graphics card are the only problems though. My graphics card is under "the weak guys"

[jp4lyfe]

Optimization hasn't taken place yet too people. So the events now may have needed 2gb RAM to run the pvp events smooth doesn't mean that'll be the issue at release. All Beta's start out with the highest specs for it and usually really really late into the Beta they begin to do all the optimization making the game playable for the lower end specs.

My guess would be 1GB RAM will run it fine with any decent 256mb AGP or PCI Express video card. (At release anyways) The Beta requirements are prolly a little bit higher atm.

[Goldenheart]

I will be amazed if even the best possible computer will be able to max out the settings during a mass PvP battle and have 70+ FPS. I would be amazed if you got 30 FPS.

If you can Handle Medieval 2 Total war on max with huge troops sizes ofcourse you will be able to handle it, and even better. I doubt you know how far computers can go with the technology we have now. Seriously, they wouldnt design this game so only the ELITEZ0RZ of gaming computers can handle the large battles.

[Graven]

Well-written post, must have taken some time to put together. Told me what I already knew - medium/low settings = run good on current rig; settings as I want them to be = new computer, hehe. Only good thing is, I'll be going to university, moving to another city and possibly buying a new pc - a bit better than the current - athlon 2500+, Geforce 6800 trinity 1gb ram.

[Joebonanza]

Looks like i'm gonna need to get an extra gig of ram, and a new graphics card :(


Ah well, at least like i've got plenty of time to get it sorted :D

[Snafzg]

I would definitely not rush out to buy a new machine for WAR at this moment. It's still 6+ months away and with the dropping price of older/present technology and the inevitable release of new technology makes it seem like a waste of money at this point in time (unless you plan to use it for other games leading up to WAR).

I'm still rockin' the P4 3.0GHz, GeForce 6800XT (256/256) AGP, 1GB RAM. I'm quite confident that I'll be able to play WAR with these specs at release. If it needs a bit more power, I can easily upgrade to the GeForce 7900GS AGP and another 1GB of PC3200 DDR-400 RAM. Total cost of upgrade 6 months from now? Probably $200 max.

I just can't see EA Mythic wanting to release WAR with a system spec any greater than what the average WoW player already has. The idea is to leech players from WoW and if people have to upgrade their machine to try out your game, well, the majority of them won't bother trying it. :roll:

[Ravenlaw]

If it's accurate, I'll be fine. I sit a little above average with everything... though i might pick up another stick of RAM to push it to 3 gigs...

NVIDIA GeForce 7600 GS, 2 GB RAM

[Quazar]

Put in the 7900 GS. that baby sometimes topples the 8600 GT man. Btw the GT/GS/GTS designations are important on Nvidia cards. I don't know as much about ATI.

You also haven't put in the Laptop cards. They may share some numbers but they don't fit in the same power rankings as their same name brother. Nvidia 7600 > Nvidia Go 7600

[Pseudoman]

Why quad? I have not been able to find where WAR will be able to support multi core. If you know WAR can support multi core please let me know where you found that infomation. Water cooling is not needed at all unless you plan to overclock or just want a quieter machine. I would also stay away from Vista until SP2 is released for it and even then, I would only go to Vista if you have a DX10 GFX card and 4GB RAM to make the change from XP really worth it.
Yeah Ive been thinking Ill go with the duo E6850 (which is 3.0 ghz) instead of a quad core.

[SKYeXile]

http://www23.tomshardware.com/graphics_2007.html?modelx=33&model1=859&model2=722&chart=294

answers alot on video card performance.

oh and water cooling isnot quieter than stock cooling, infact its extremely more noisy, the fans pushing the air through the radiator is very loud and the pump isnot quiet ether.

im not installing the watercooling setup on my new PC, its just to loud.

[JonnyWarhawk]

A few things...

for one, it definitely wont be 1GB of RAM minimum. My good guess is 768 minimum and 1.5 recommended. Also, I have an X800XL and I know I wont be able to run the graphics on Very high. I'll be happy with medium. Seems like you need to bring most of the cards you listed down a bracket.

[Durni]

Hello all, first time poster here; saw this thread and just had to ask this (admittedly) noobish question.:D

So, I'm wondering how important your system's processor speed is. Right now I'm running a system that has about 1.6 ghz, but a real nice NVIDIA GeForce 8700M GT graphics card. Do you think I'll be able to run it all right, considering the processor speed?

[Sanctuary]

Wow, very nice post PeterPan!

[SKYeXile]

Hello all, first time poster here; saw this thread and just had to ask this (admittedly) noobish question.:D

So, I'm wondering how important your system's processor speed is. Right now I'm running a system that has about 1.6 ghz, but a real nice NVIDIA GeForce 8700M GT graphics card. Do you think I'll be able to run it all right, considering the processor speed?

1.6 maybe suitable, but in larger fights or in capital cities you will most defiantly get some choppiness in gameplay(if it even runs the game) since your processor wont be able to keepup with what the game is trying to do.

try to find out what sort of motherboard(mainboard) you have then find a new processor that will slot into it. its likely you will be able to slot upto 3g in it.

[LadyLiete]

If you have alot of ram and a good graphics card it can usually make up for a weak CPU.

[linuxnacrot]

I'm not sure if anyone could give advice but ill ask nonetheless.

I'm only about a year and a half before i go to college (and get a laptop) and I'm wondering whether to spend around a grand on a new computer to play mainly WAR and Spore. I was thinking of getting a dell Inspiron with a Core 2 Duo (2.4ghz), 3g of ram, and an nVidia 8800gt. How well do you think I'd be able to run WAR (with the recent estimates) on that PC and should i get it? Thanks in advance

[Valinox Ruina]

Im running a C2Duo e6850 @ 3.2ghz, 2gigs Corsair XMS2 PC6400 memory @ 5-5-5-15 timings, eVGA 8800GT @ 600/900, 320gig 16mb cache HDD on an Asus P5N32-E 680i SLI Mobo... This WILL run warhammer at high settings in the thick of everything going on and no lag...

How do i know this? Well...


CoD4 with 32 players, all on max settings at 1680x1050 resolution i get about 50 FPS in the largest fights with UAVs up, Smoke Grenades, Hellicopters, Bombing... all that stuff.

WAR will be nowhere near the graphic intensity that CoD4 is... so as a good note

If you can run CoD4 at good settings with good FPS, you can run war in the same.

[Aamina]

You seem to have put a lot of work in that post, but still, breaking the NDA (even if you are not in the Beta) is a nono.

I know this has been addressed, but I can't get over it. How, exactly, can you break an agreement you haven't agreed to? If you're not in the beta, you can't break the NDA. I can say whatever the hell I want about Warhammer Online, and since I'm not in the beta, its not only unlikely to be true but not against any agreement I have actually signed.

[VasagiOoS]

First off, I'd like to thank PeterPan as well for putting the time into creating a great guide for those looking to get ideas as to where they may stand spec-wise. I've recently picked up a rig w/ the C2Duo e6750 (2.66ghz), 8800GT, and 2gig memory.

My question is for those more computer-wise than I. I'd like to get my g/f hooked on WAR but to do that it'll require an upgrade to her current rig. Right now it has a P4 (3ghz), 1.5gig, and an Intel integrated video card (ugh!). I feel the processor and memory should be fine to run WAR at medium settings but the video card needs upgrading. Unfortunately the MOBO only has PCI (not PCI-E) available. I've considered going w/ the ATI Radeon X1300 or X1550 but those may also be too low and not worth the $. I've also thought about replacing the MOBO to get one w/ a PCI-E slot to get a 7600GT or so level card but need one that's compatible with everything else in the rig. If anyone has time, I'd be insanely grateful if you'd glance at the current MOBO and check out newegg.com for any possible compatible ones w/ a PCI-E slot. Here's the current one:
http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/genericDocument?docname=c00361570&cc=us&dlc=en&lc=en&jumpid=reg_R1002_USEN

Big thanks in advance to all who attempt this request!

[Valinox Ruina]

No AGP/PCI-E slots is going to hurt your in your choices...

this is the best i could find http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814161074

Its a PCI card with a core clock of 550mhz which is insane for its kind, but only 64bit memory. This card takes up two slots on your mobo, so if you only have 1 PCI card in there right now, you can swap it to the bottom slot to make room for this.

You can get a 128-bit card with a slower clock speed, but since PCI is outdated anyways... its hard to compare them.

[Zaylin123]

I'm on 'the weak guys' , lol

[VasagiOoS]

No AGP/PCI-E slots is going to hurt your in your choices...


Tell me about it. The limited selection of PCI cards is why I'm considering getting a new motherboard to allow the use of PCI-E cards. I'll throw out 2 more questions for y'all:

1. The card Valinox Ruina linked (X1550) does have a 550MHz core clock but only a 64-bit interface, how would that compare to a similar card (X1300) w/ the same amount of memory (256MB, GDDR2) but with a 450MHz core clock and a 128-bit interface?

2. VisionTek also made a X1550 but instead of a 550MHz core clock, it has dual RAMDACs, each at 400MHz (2 x 400MHz), how would these 2 cards compare?

I really appreciate the help guys!

[Rizzen]

Very good thread, thanks for the info. 7900 GS is good then. Excellent!

I presume when you say P4 @ 2.2Ghz you mean an actual P4 and not a C2D? Just thought I would make sure as I'm thinking that you saved me a good bit of money. :)

[jaide]

A few things...

for one, it definitely wont be 1GB of RAM minimum. My good guess is 768 minimum and 1.5 recommended. Also, I have an X800XL and I know I wont be able to run the graphics on Very high. I'll be happy with medium. Seems like you need to bring most of the cards you listed down a bracket.

Those are really weird numbers for the ram requirements as you can't do 768 effectively with 2 sticks and you can't do 1.5 effectively with 2 sticks either.

[harkan]

I know this has been addressed, but I can't get over it. How, exactly, can you break an agreement you haven't agreed to? If you're not in the beta, you can't break the NDA. I can say whatever the hell I want about Warhammer Online, and since I'm not in the beta, its not only unlikely to be true but not against any agreement I have actually signed.

cause people dont understand what a nda is just as they dont understand what a tos or eula is.

To make it painfully clear: you can only break the nda (non-disclosure agreement) if you actually AGREED to it, meaning: If you actually own a beta account.

Hypotheticly you are not breaking the nda if you post info that you gained from lets say your friend who has the beta, he broke it but you did not. They will delete the info anyway cause it's not info they want out but you ppl need to learn the difference between them controlling the info and breaking an nda.

say it after me: I cannot break that which i have not agreed upon.

I realy think everyone who plays mmos should be forced to take a 10 hour law class so they actually understand stuff like this and tos'es etc.

[Ashanor]

I will be happy if I can pull off 30+ FPS in a large battle. I think I will be able to do better than that with the system I am building though.

Q9450 "Penryn", 4 GB Dominator DDR2 1066 (PC2 8500), 8800 GT SSC x2 (SLI), Seagate HD x2 (RAID 0)

[Nurgling]

You need some more clarification: Screen Resolution! A 2GHz CPU and mid range GPU might be fine at 1024x768, but if you're running 1680x1050 on a 20"+ LCD widescreen, think again.

Months ago, I tried starting up a poll for people who were in beta asking them WHAT their system specs were, mainly to answer the required system specs question. A person in beta revealing their system specs is NOT breaking the NDA. But, the powers that be locked that thread before I got a single reply.

[Valinox Ruina]

I will be happy if I can pull off 30+ FPS in a large battle. I think I will be able to do better than that with the system I am building though.

Q9450 "Penryn", 4 GB Dominator DDR2 1066 (PC2 8500), 8800 GT SSC x2 (SLI), Seagate HD x2 (RAID 0)

That kind of system will run you close to $3000. If you have the money, by all means do it, but I highly think its overkill for WAR. But with all the new games coming out that require insane computers to run *cough*cyrsis*cough*... Having a comp like that would mean you dont need to upgrade for a while...

PS. You need 64bit OS to recognize the 4 gigs of ram. Vista 64bit would be my choice. And you need another HDD in addition to the two in Raid 0 as a backup OS drive in case 1 of the raid drives goes bad.

[realcyberghost]

To the OP :

I do not believe that the following :

Nvidia Geforce 7800/7900 Series - (All versions) DX9
Radeon X1900/X1950 Series (All versions) DX9

Should be rated as class 1, because with my overclocked 7900GT 512MB I can not run WoW with maxed settings at 1600 x 1200 resolution with a steady 30 FPS.

I have to run at 1280 x 1024 and with some effects ( like spell effects ) toned down a bit, to be able to have minimal FPS of 30 at Alterac Valley, 25-man raids or Shattrath.

The rest of my system is a Dual Core Opteron 2600mhz, 3,25GB RAM ( running XP, cant use all 4GB :p ) with a Raptor harddisk.

Perhaps the 7900GT is almost class 1, but the 7800 surely is not.

edit :
And I talk about WoW here, but I am confident that the requirements for WAR will be about the same or higher.

Greetings,
Mentakh.

[Obby]

To the OP :

I do not believe that the following :

Nvidia Geforce 7800/7900 Series - (All versions) DX9
Radeon X1900/X1950 Series (All versions) DX9

Should be rated as class 1, because with my overclocked 7900GT 512MB I can not run WoW with maxed settings at 1600 x 1200 resolution with a steady 30 FPS.

I have to run at 1280 x 1024 and with some effects ( like spell effects ) toned down a bit, to be able to have minimal FPS of 30 at Alterac Valley, 25-man raids or Shattrath.

The rest of my system is a Dual Core Opteron 2600mhz, 3,25GB RAM ( running XP, cant use all 4GB :p ) with a Raptor harddisk.

Perhaps the 7900GT is almost class 1, but the 7800 surely is not.

edit :
And I talk about WoW here, but I am confident that the requirements for WAR will be about the same or higher.

Greetings,
Mentakh.
That means something else in your system is lacking, because even at 1600x1200, you should be able to run WoW on max.I could run WoW at 1600x1200 at max with a regular old 6800, and I would be getting between 20 and 30 FPS consistently. Either that or you're lying (which I don't see why you would, you really don't have a reason to).

[Aycrith]

Processor: AMD Athlon(tm) 64 X2 Dual Core Processor 5600+ (2 CPUs), ~2.8GHz
Memory: 4094MB RAM
Card name: NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GTS
Manufacturer: NVIDIA
Chip type: GeForce 8800 GTS
DAC type: Integrated RAMDAC
Device Key: Enum\PCI\VEN_10DE&DEV_0193&SUBSYS_82341043&REV_A2
Display Memory: 2395 MB
Drive: C:
Free Space: 57.6 GB
Total Space: 100.0 GB
File System: NTFS
Model: n/a

Drive: D:
Free Space: 18.4 GB
Total Space: 40.0 GB
File System: NTFS
Model: n/a

Drive: E:
Free Space: 18.7 GB
Total Space: 200.0 GB
File System: NTFS
Model: n/a

Drive: F:
Free Space: 24.0 GB
Total Space: 50.0 GB
File System: NTFS
Model: n/a

Drive: G:
Free Space: 53.3 GB
Total Space: 116.2 GB
File System: NTFS
Model: n/a

Drive: H:
Free Space: 146.1 GB
Total Space: 265.2 GB
File System: NTFS
Model: n/a

All this and still no beta to WAR or AoC :<

(Don't steal this and try to edit your dxdiag because they can tell if its fake or edited)

[Silentium]

For people looking for a new video card I strongly recommend you check out the new nVidia 8800 GT. It was running about 250-300 last I checked and it's worth it. It's cheaper and outperforms the older 8800 GTS cards. From the benchkmarks I've seen the performance is near comparable to the 8800 GTX for a few hundred dollars cheaper.


As far as DirectX10 support goes, who cares? I still haven't seen a reason to upgrade from XP to Vista. Crysis was supposed to be the reason to get DX10. I saw the comparison screenshots and was looking forward to trying it out. Then tweak to enable Very High mode came out and it turns out all the performance boosts were from game settings and not dx10-only effects. The difference between XP and Vista in Crysis on very high are minimal.

[Ashanor]

That kind of system will run you close to $3000.

You are estimating a little high. I can build that system for probably a little over $2,000.

Q9450 - $300 (maybe a little more)
4 GB Dominator 1066 - $350
eVGA 8800 GT SSC x2 - $600
eVGA 680i A1 Motherboard - $250

Around $1500 so far - a case, a monitor, a sound card, water cooling, not going to add much to the price tag.

[Valinox Ruina]

Q9450 - $300 (maybe a little more) .

Are you mad? The QX9650 are over $1200 right now, the QX6700 is $930, the Q6700 is $540.... Figure that processor will be AT LEAST $750, probably more.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=2+50001157+40000343+1050722264&name=Core+2+Extreme
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=2010340343+1050727216&name=Core+2+Quad

[Ashanor]

Are you mad? The QX9650 are over $1200 right now, the QX6700 is $930, the Q6700 is $540.... Figure that processor will be AT LEAST $750, probably more.You really shouldn't speak when you do not know what you are talking about. The Q9450 is the Penryn equivalent of the Q6600. The Q9550 is supposed to launch around $530, the Q9450 at $316, and the Q9300 at $266.

http://www.xbitlabs.com/images/news/2007-10/intc_dt_cpu_prices_q1_2008.png

[Umbarg]

To the OP :

I do not believe that the following :

Nvidia Geforce 7800/7900 Series - (All versions) DX9
Radeon X1900/X1950 Series (All versions) DX9

Should be rated as class 1, because with my overclocked 7900GT 512MB I can not run WoW with maxed settings at 1600 x 1200 resolution with a steady 30 FPS.

I have to run at 1280 x 1024 and with some effects ( like spell effects ) toned down a bit, to be able to have minimal FPS of 30 at Alterac Valley, 25-man raids or Shattrath.

The rest of my system is a Dual Core Opteron 2600mhz, 3,25GB RAM ( running XP, cant use all 4GB :p ) with a Raptor harddisk.

Perhaps the 7900GT is almost class 1, but the 7800 surely is not.

edit :
And I talk about WoW here, but I am confident that the requirements for WAR will be about the same or higher.

Greetings,
Mentakh.

You must have a quadrillion spyware on your computer.. Because I can run WoW on 1600x1200 and everything on absolute maximum with steady 100+ FPS. And my computer is a Core 2 Duo e6320, 2 Gb 667Mhz DDR2 Kingston Ram and a 256Mb x1950 pro. Nothing overclocked.

[Ashanor]

You must have a quadrillion spyware on your computer.. Because I can run WoW on 1600x1200 and everything on absolute maximum with steady 100+ FPS. And my computer is a Core 2 Duo e6320, 2 Gb 667Mhz DDR2 Kingston Ram and a 256Mb x1950 pro. Nothing overclocked.Agreed, you need to do some maintenance on your PC. Do you regularly get rid of spyware? Run virus scans? Defragment your hard drive? Are any other programs running in the background when your PC starts?

I can run WoW just fine (does have issues in AV and major cities, other than that it's alright) on low settings with a PC from 2001. (P4 1.7, Radeon 9550, 512 MB SD) I ran flawlessly on max settings in Alterac Valley with my brothers PC. (AMD x64, ATI 1650 Pro, and 2 GB of DDR1)

[Valinox Ruina]

My bad... i got my Q####s mixed up. Damn intel and thier naming schemes.... who thought of Yorkfield, Penryn, Conroe.... are those names of the engineers or somthing...

Adding to the WoW chat.... I recall watching a video about iMacs and some new techology that "doubled" the framerates in WoW because it used the CPU to do GPU calculations or somthing. During the demonstration... the mac ran WoW at like 35fps... and when the "new sophiticated technology" was turned on it went up to a staggering 80FPS!! NO WAY!

I think its funny that mac thinks they are hot stuff for getting 80FPS in ironforge.

[Valinox Ruina]

Processor: AMD Athlon(tm) 64 X2 Dual Core Processor 5600+ (2 CPUs), ~2.8GHz
Memory: 4094MB RAM
Card name: NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GTS
Manufacturer: NVIDIA
Chip type: GeForce 8800 GTS
DAC type: Integrated RAMDAC
Device Key: Enum\PCI\VEN_10DE&DEV_0193&SUBSYS_82341043&REV_A2
Display Memory: 2395 MB
Drive: C:
Free Space: 57.6 GB
Total Space: 100.0 GB
File System: NTFS
Model: n/a

Drive: D:
Free Space: 18.4 GB
Total Space: 40.0 GB
File System: NTFS
Model: n/a

Drive: E:
Free Space: 18.7 GB
Total Space: 200.0 GB
File System: NTFS
Model: n/a

Drive: F:
Free Space: 24.0 GB
Total Space: 50.0 GB
File System: NTFS
Model: n/a

Drive: G:
Free Space: 53.3 GB
Total Space: 116.2 GB
File System: NTFS
Model: n/a

Drive: H:
Free Space: 146.1 GB
Total Space: 265.2 GB
File System: NTFS
Model: n/a

All this and still no beta to WAR or AoC :<

(Don't steal this and try to edit your dxdiag because they can tell if its fake or edited)

Ok... so you have a massive raid setup on your computer with most of your drives under 50% storage left... Why do you think this means you should get into WAR or AoC?

Your CPU and Video card are above avg.... im a little confused about the Display Memory: 2395 MB...

I'd call shinanigans for you editing your dxdiag if this is really yours. Unless you had two specal 8800GTS cards for a workstation APP or somthing... i dont see how you could reach 2.4gigs of video memory on the cards. Page file maybe? I dunno

[Silentium]

My bad... i got my Q####s mixed up. Damn intel and thier naming schemes.... who thought of Yorkfield, Penryn, Conroe.... are those names of the engineers or somthing...

Intel usually names all their chipsets after towns. You can look them up here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Intel_codenames

[Silentium]

Ok... so you have a massive raid setup on your computer with most of your drives under 50% storage left... Why do you think this means you should get into WAR or AoC?

I don't think they're even in a RAID. That usually involves matching drives, these are all different.

I also don't understand the purpose of his post.

[Valinox Ruina]

And nobody uses NTFS anymore... everyone went back to FAT16 and Dos 3.1 :mrgreen:

[Silentium]

I'd call shinanigans for you editing your dxdiag if this is really yours. Unless you had two specal 8800GTS cards for a workstation APP or somthing... i dont see how you could reach 2.4gigs of video memory on the cards. Page file maybe? I dunno

No, that's real. And that's just one 8800 GTS. What was removed from the dxdiag is that it is 604 MB dedicated memory (on the card) and another 1791 MB of shared memory from the 4 gigs of RAM. Vista 64 is very share-friendly with RAM, which I don't quite understand. Unless you're running a massive display I don't think you'd need anywhere near that much under any circumstance. But who ever won an argument trying to justify how Vista works? =)

[realcyberghost]

To all the posters here that said my system may have spyware or other problems,

I don't think so, games like oblivion run pretty smooth on my system.

When I play in 5 man instances are just in the regular world, my FPS will go as high as 120+, but when I fly into shattrath or run on my epic mount around in shattrath, I will have drops in FPS, and I will get yellow FPS ( under 30 FPS ), and I am not alone here, a friend of mine has a good system based on an AMD X2 with a Radeon X1900GT gfx card ( around the same performance as my Geforce 7900GT ), he also get large drops in performance and FPS when in crowded areas, expecially Shattrath.

I ran around in Ironforge and Stormwind lately ( new alt ) and did not have the performance drop, so maybe it is someting with shattrath.

Another friend of mine with an 8800GTS had a big FPS drop in a 25 man instance, but everyone on the raid had this problem, so perhaps bad code from Blizzard there :p

Also everyone with a geforce 8800 has had the arrakoa bug, where you would crash out of the game when you would fight or pass arrakoa's.

What I wanna say is that it might be a problem purely related to shattrath, but I have seen many people complaining about low FPS in shattrath, even people with high performance systems.

I will do some AV's tonight, to see if the bad performance is still there.

However, my system has no spyware or malfunctioning components that I know of.

I will also start playing UT3 this weekend and see how that goes :p

Edit : ATM My personal conclusion is that my current system is not strong enough to run with more then 50 people running around on my screen, casting stuff, etc.

Greetz

[Silentium]

To all the posters here that said my system may have spyware or other problems,

I don't think so, games like oblivion run pretty smooth on my system.

You may be right but it does seem a little odd that you're having performance problems with your set-up. I'm not running WoW anymore but on my old system it was with a 7900 GT with an AMD 3200, 2 gigs ram and a 7200 rpm drive and I very rarely went below 30fps unless there was some hardcore mass AOE going on.

Just to check the more obvious problems, you've run defrag, spybot, closed out background programs? Check task manager's process list looking for anything strange running?

You have a pretty strong system so Warcraft really shouldn't be taxing it that much.

[Aycrith]

Ok... so you have a massive raid setup on your computer with most of your drives under 50% storage left... Why do you think this means you should get into WAR or AoC?

Your CPU and Video card are above avg.... im a little confused about the Display Memory: 2395 MB...

I'd call shinanigans for you editing your dxdiag if this is really yours. Unless you had two specal 8800GTS cards for a workstation APP or somthing... i dont see how you could reach 2.4gigs of video memory on the cards. Page file maybe? I dunno

Before lashing out with accusations learn how Vista Ultimate works. Haven't you ever heard everyone saying that you should NEVER buy anything over 3 gigs of ram unless your running a vista ultimate OS? That's because the OS shares ram with other sources. Before spouting off and making false accusations, know what the f your talking about. And what does hard drive space have to do with ANYTHING?

[PeterPan]

It could be a weak CPU causing the lag.

[realcyberghost]

Okay after some more tests ( this time using FRAPS ) I conclude the following :

My system :
Windows XP PRO
Asus A8V
AMD Opteron Dual Core 2700Mhz
Gainward Geforce 7900GT 512MB
OCZ 4GB 2-3-2-5 DDR400
Western Digital Caviar SE16 320GB 16MB Cache

- I can run Unreal Tournament 3 at 1280 x 1024 with maximum settings, then my FPS does not go below 30.

- I can run Oblivion at 1024x768 with high settings, then my FPS does not go below 30.

- I can run WoW at 1280x1024 with max settings and have FPS between 20 and 100.
In orgrimmar I have normally above 60 FPS, only when looking at the spot between the Bank and the Auction House, where alot of people are standing and running around, my FPS drop below 30, and they even go as low as 15 FPS sometimes.

Also when looking at the distance trees in shattrath, while standing at a crowded area, my FPS drop to 20.

Now the thing is, it does not really affect my gameplay, I see in titan panel and/or fraps that my FPS drop, and if I pay attention I will also notice the drop in FPS, but when regularly playing, it does not matter, it is not that my screen freezes or something.

I also tried lowering the settings in WoW to minimal, but even that doesnt help, I keep getting low FPS at high populated areas.


So I can play WoW at 1280 x 1024 with maxed settings, and it runs fine, most of the time above 60 FPS, except when in crowded areas, and even then it does not affect gameplay.

But that does not mean there is no room for improvement, so I do not consider the 7900GT to be Tier 1, the only cards you can consider tier 1 are : 8800 GT 512MB, 8800 GTS 512MB, 8800GTX 768MB and the 8800GTX Ultra 768MB.

The 7900GT is not in the same league of the mentioned 8800 cards.

Edit : No there are no Tier 1 ATI cards atm :p

Greetz,
Mentakh.

[niSs]

Gigabyte GA-P35-DQ6 iP35
Intel Core 2 Duo E6850 3.0GHz
Crucial DDR2 BallistiX PC6400 4GB
XFX GeForce 8800 GT 512MB DDR3 Extreme

That should be enough for WAR...:cool:

[RedSkullOrk]

Okay, so ive determined I have a "dead-guy" card; hasn't actually stopped me from playing anything ive wanted to over the last 4-5 years but I don't play top of the line FPS. Works fine for 8-player DOW matches. Anyway, its time for me to get a new computer, and this seems like a good place to get some advice. I have enough money saved up so Im looking for something nice, I dont particulary want to pay top dollar for the newest thing as the price point is exorbatant, in my opinion, second newest or so thing is best deal for performance. Are there good storebought alternatives outthere, or do have to go to speciality retialers, or homebuild?
Ideas for $2000 and under
$3000 and under
$4000 and under
Im not willing to go beyond that and above 3 would be a stretch anyway.

WAAAGGGHHH
RedSkullOrk

[Valinox Ruina]

Before lashing out with accusations learn how Vista Ultimate works. Haven't you ever heard everyone saying that you should NEVER buy anything over 3 gigs of ram unless your running a vista ultimate OS? That's because the OS shares ram with other sources. Before spouting off and making false accusations, know what the f your talking about. And what does hard drive space have to do with ANYTHING?

Its not vista ultimate OS... its a 3gig switch on 32bit OS that limits the amount of memory that is recognized... In a 64bit OS, that switch isnt there allowing more memory to be recognized.Vista Ultimate comes in 32-bit and 64-bit version. You can add a PAE switch in your boot.ini file on a 32-bit that adds the memory over 3gigs to your kernal processing, thats your only option. Since he never posted if he had 32-bit or 64bit OS.. im guessing he has 32-bit... dont go off and assume things when you have no idea. Also, I was asking why he had 2.4gigs of video memory on the dxdiag. It appears that he was trying to edit his dxdiag file to show that he had 2.4gigs of dedicated video memory, which in fact isnt the case. I know how memory works, with kernal memory, page files, dedicated memory and so on. And I was saying telling him that HDD space doesnt matter at all. As long as you have the space available on your HDD to install the beta, thats all that Mythic looks for.

So you should really think before you speak up as well.

[PeterPan]

Okay, so ive determined I have a "dead-guy" card; hasn't actually stopped me from playing anything ive wanted to over the last 4-5 years but I don't play top of the line FPS. Works fine for 8-player DOW matches. Anyway, its time for me to get a new computer, and this seems like a good place to get some advice. I have enough money saved up so Im looking for something nice, I dont particulary want to pay top dollar for the newest thing as the price point is exorbatant, in my opinion, second newest or so thing is best deal for performance. Are there good storebought alternatives outthere, or do have to go to speciality retialers, or homebuild?
Ideas for $2000 and under
$3000 and under
$4000 and under
Im not willing to go beyond that and above 3 would be a stretch anyway.

WAAAGGGHHH
RedSkullOrkJust upgrade the graphics card/cpu/ram... much cheaper than buying a new system.

If you do want a new system though...

Alienware Auroa starts at $1,119

http://www.alienware.com/product_detail_pages/Aurora_7500/aurora_overview.aspx?SysCode=PC-AURORA-7500-R4&SubCode=SKU-DEFAULT




Edit : No there are no Tier 1 ATI cards atm :p

Greetz,
Mentakh.I recall the X1950 spanking the 7900GT in benchmarks.

[Valinox Ruina]

Alienware are overpriced, but they are really nice computers. They are tested in and out before they are shipped and the quality of the parts are nice. Most of thier computers will run you 20% or more than other places or building it yourself, but they know what they are doing, ill give them that.

[madmossy]

Basically for system requirements look at what DAoC requires now for recommended and take that as a guide to what WAR will require as a minimum.

[Obby]

Basically for system requirements look at what DAoC requires now for recommended and take that as a guide to what WAR will require as a minimum.
Sorry, but I don't think that's a very good guide. DAoC is over 6 years old. That's like saying WoW's minimum is like Diablo 2's recommended. It just won't work.

[realcyberghost]

Just upgrade the graphics card/cpu/ram... much cheaper than buying a new system.

If you do want a new system though...

Alienware Auroa starts at $1,119

http://www.alienware.com/product_detail_pages/Aurora_7500/aurora_overview.aspx?SysCode=PC-AURORA-7500-R4&SubCode=SKU-DEFAULT


I recall the X1950 spanking the 7900GT in benchmarks.

Oh yes, but that is a long time ago, and I was referring to what I call tier 1, not what you call Tier 1 :p

[PeterPan]

There aren't any cards better than my tier 1 cards.

[RedSkullOrk]

Just upgrade the graphics card/cpu/ram... much cheaper than buying a new system.

If you do want a new system though...

Alienware Auroa starts at $1,119

http://www.alienware.com/product_detail_pages/Aurora_7500/aurora_overview.aspx?SysCode=PC-AURORA-7500-R4&SubCode=SKU-DEFAULT


I recall the X1950 spanking the 7900GT in benchmarks.

so ive found a few other sites in a quick search, are any of these known, for being good bad, expensive etc.

http://www.vigorgaming.com/

http://www.falcon-nw.com/

http://www.alienware.com/

http://h20435.www2.hp.com/

http://www.voodoopc.com/
voodoo stuff is md expensive

anway, lemme know if you think i missed something or have suggestions from the above.

Also, I have never built a computer before, I have rewired/repaired some older models and have decent tecnical knowledge. Is it feasible to build a decent gaming rig on a first build, keep in mind I understand the extra time it would take, but I think it would be personally rewarding.

WAAAGGGHHH
RedSkullOrk

[realcyberghost]

There aren't any cards better than my tier 1 cards.

I will repeat what I said in one of my previous posts :

The only cards that I consider Tier 1 cards are the following :

Geforce 8800GT 512MB / Geforce 8800GTS 512MB / Geforce 8800GTX 768MB / Geforce 8800GTX Ultra 768MB

Everything else is quite a bit slower, especially the old 7 series from Nvidia or the x1900 series from ATI.

You classify these slower cards in Tier 1 telling they can run anything, but the fact is they cant even run WoW in highest settings with a minimum of 30 FPS.

So as long as these slower cards ( or even the faster cards ) cant run WoW at maximum settings while maintaining a minimal FPS of 30, you can not pile all these cards together in Tier 1 imho. Because the real tier 1 cards will perform noticably better.

But thats just me, and who am I :p

BTW, to the people saying they CAN run WoW at max settings in 1600 x 1200 resolution and never drop below 30 FPS with a 7900GT, I think you should retest, go to shattrath and run around a bit on your epic mount.

( p.s. Again I compare to WoW because I am confident WAR will have similar or higher requirements )

Greetings,
Mentakh.

[madmossy]

Sorry, but I don't think that's a very good guide. DAoC is over 6 years old. That's like saying WoW's minimum is like Diablo 2's recommended. It just won't work.

Well actually it is if you compair it to DAoC as it is currently with all its expansion packs, Labyrinth of the Minotaur, Catacombs and Atlatis all added significantly better graphics upgrades which require far better systems to run well than the original client.

DAoC looks alot better now than it used to.

http://www.darkageofcamelot.com/screenshots.php

Min specs for LotM (Labyrinth of the Minotaur) are as follows:

Pentium 4 2.0 GHz or AMD equivalent
512 MB RAM
Requires compatible 3D acceleration card with 64 MB Video RAM (with Pixel Shader 1.1 or higher)
DirectX 9.0c or later

War: AoR will more than likely be the same, possible require 1Gb ram minimum and 128Mb Graphics card although its unlikely to be the case as a majority of casual players are still on poor hardware with integrated video cards and low ammounts of ram. Infact even machines sold today still come with 512Mb (generally business/branded cheap machines). While said users may not be able to play the game well, they can still atleast play. Any MMO that wishes to capture the largest audience possible should cater for the lowest common system.

[madmossy]

/snip


WoW ran fine for me at 1920x1200 with everything max, can probably count the number of times my frame rate dipped before 30fps on one hand. Even Shattrah City was more than smooth, not like you need 60+ fps for an MMO anyway.

Ohh thats on an ATi 2900XT @ 850/2000.

[Obby]

I will repeat what I said in one of my previous posts :

The only cards that I consider Tier 1 cards are the following :

Geforce 8800GT 512MB / Geforce 8800GTS 512MB / Geforce 8800GTX 768MB / Geforce 8800GTX Ultra 768MB

Everything else is quite a bit slower, especially the old 7 series from Nvidia or the x1900 series from ATI.
I won't argue with you that the older 7 series or x1900 are slower than the cards you listed, because you're right, but stating that tier 1 cards only consist of those cards you listed is a bit short-sighted. Any 8800 should be considered a tier 1 card, any of them are more than capable of running any game (yes, even Crysis) on max settings. Believe me, I've done it.

You classify these slower cards in Tier 1 telling they can run anything, but the fact is they cant even run WoW in highest settings with a minimum of 30 FPS.
Load. I had an old 6800 that ran WoW on max settings and I consistently achieved 30+ FPS, even in most raids.

So as long as these slower cards ( or even the faster cards ) cant run WoW at maximum settings while maintaining a minimal FPS of 30, you can not pile all these cards together in Tier 1 imho. Because the real tier 1 cards will perform noticably better.

But thats just me, and who am I :p

BTW, to the people saying they CAN run WoW at max settings in 1600 x 1200 resolution and never drop below 30 FPS with a 7900GT, I think you should retest, go to shattrath and run around a bit on your epic mount.
I've done it on a 6800. Granted, it was a while ago so I can't remember the exact framerates, but it wasn't any slower than when doing raid PvP with two full raid groups.

[Wthermans]

I won't argue with you that the older 7 series or x1900 are slower than the cards you listed, because you're right, but stating that tier 1 cards only consist of those cards you listed is a bit short-sighted. Any 8800 should be considered a tier 1 card, any of them are more than capable of running any game (yes, even Crysis) on max settings. Believe me, I've done it.

Load. I had an old 6800 that ran WoW on max settings and I consistently achieved 30+ FPS, even in most raids.

I've done it on a 6800. Granted, it was a while ago so I can't remember the exact framerates, but it wasn't any slower than when doing raid PvP with two full raid groups.

8800s can run Crysis on max at lower resolutions smootherly but you're looking at ~30-35 FPS @ 1280x768 and ~20-25 FPS @ 1680x1050 (8800GTX 768 here). You are correct on the 6800 though. I've got an AGP build that's using a 6800GT and running WoW @ ~40FPS. The 6XXX series was an awesome card.

[twinoceans]

you know any info on the video card, such as Vertex Shader version and Pixel Shader version?

[Bisonberg]

BTW, to the people saying they CAN run WoW at max settings in 1600 x 1200 resolution and never drop below 30 FPS with a 7900GT, I think you should retest, go to shattrath and run around a bit on your epic mount.


I can do it with a 6800, with little problem. I think you underestimate older cards.

[kennies]

I really do hope you are right and the requirements on this game is not so demanding. Most of the new games to date require you to have a very good computer to make it playable. What they don't take into account are the players with laptops. Most people I know have laptops and use that as their main computer. My household has 7 laptops total and not a single desktop. Not sure about others, but I am not going to spend several hundred dollars to buy a new computer just to play games.
I know my laptop can handle WoW when I turn everything down to minimum settings, which is probably one of the reason I stuck by the game so long, though I dont play it anymore. I do hope warhammer isn't so system intensive though, cause I am sure they will lose a lot of players if the requirements are too demanding.

BTW, I'm using

Operating System: Windows XP Professional (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 2 (2600.xpsp_sp2_qfe.070227-2300)
Language: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: Acer, inc.
System Model: Aspire 5600
Processor: Genuine Intel(R) CPU T2050 @ 1.60GHz (2 CPUs)
Memory: 1014MB RAM
Page File: 386MB used, 2053MB available
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Card name: Mobile Intel(R) 945 Express Chipset Family
Manufacturer: Intel Corporation
Chip type: Intel(R) GMA 950
DAC type: Internal
Device Key: Enum\PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_27A2&SUBSYS_01021025&REV_03
Display Memory: 224.0 MB
Current Mode: 1280 x 800 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor: Plug and Play Monitor
Monitor Max Res: 1600,1200

So according to the OP, I should be able to run the game on low settings. If not, I will probably look for another not so demanding game if I ever decide to come back to mmo type game. Anyone thinks, my laptop won't have a chance at this game?

[Hizulvej]

I will be buying a brand spanking new PC just before WAR releases, planning to go for an SLI mobo (maybe the triple SLI, 780i), dualcore 3gz+, 4 gb ram, 2x 8800 GT 512 MB (will have to see what is the most bang for my buck at the time)..

will probably be spending around 2,500 $ on my new PC :P

[Silentium]

2x 8800 GT 512 MB

Just don't skimp on the cooling! These babies heat up FAST.

[Goldenheart]

I really do hope you are right and the requirements on this game is not so demanding. Most of the new games to date require you to have a very good computer to make it playable. What they don't take into account are the players with laptops. Most people I know have laptops and use that as their main computer. My household has 7 laptops total and not a single desktop. Not sure about others, but I am not going to spend several hundred dollars to buy a new computer just to play games.
I know my laptop can handle WoW when I turn everything down to minimum settings, which is probably one of the reason I stuck by the game so long, though I dont play it anymore. I do hope warhammer isn't so system intensive though, cause I am sure they will lose a lot of players if the requirements are too demanding.

BTW, I'm using

Operating System: Windows XP Professional (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 2 (2600.xpsp_sp2_qfe.070227-2300)
Language: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: Acer, inc.
System Model: Aspire 5600
Processor: Genuine Intel(R) CPU T2050 @ 1.60GHz (2 CPUs)
Memory: 1014MB RAM
Page File: 386MB used, 2053MB available
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Card name: Mobile Intel(R) 945 Express Chipset Family
Manufacturer: Intel Corporation
Chip type: Intel(R) GMA 950
DAC type: Internal
Device Key: Enum\PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_27A2&SUBSYS_01021025&REV_03
Display Memory: 224.0 MB
Current Mode: 1280 x 800 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor: Plug and Play Monitor
Monitor Max Res: 1600,1200

So according to the OP, I should be able to run the game on low settings. If not, I will probably look for another not so demanding game if I ever decide to come back to mmo type game. Anyone thinks, my laptop won't have a chance at this game?

On low settings maybe, but your laptop may even blow up during seiges and intense battles. I think it's time for you to save up money or abandon all hope of playing this game.:(

[PeterPan]

you know any info on the video card, such as Vertex Shader version and Pixel Shader version?Im pretty sure 2.0 is required but it will have 3.0 features.

[Naminator]

You seem to have put a lot of work in that post, but still, breaking the NDA (even if you are not in the Beta) is a nono.

Theres no such thing as "Breaking the NDA" if your not in the beta and did not agree to the NDA terms.

[GameyHarp]

You don't have SUPER HERO cards, which would be my dual 8800gt's :X.

[kennies]

On low settings maybe, but your laptop may even blow up during seiges and intense battles. I think it's time for you to save up money or abandon all hope of playing this game.:(

lol thnx for the reply, hey at least i got 6 months to build a gaming rig. The 8800GT's seems like a good buy, but we'll see.

[twinoceans]

Im pretty sure 2.0 is required but it will have 3.0 features.
thanks alot for the answer.

will the game require both vertex and pixel shaders, in addition with Video HW Transform & Lighting?

is there a way you can update pixel and vertex shaders?

[PeterPan]

My guess is the game will require the following for a graphics card:

Transform & Lighting

Pixel Shader 2.0

128mb of video ram

DX9.0 C
-----

Pretty much any graphics card after the Geforce 5700 meets these requirements. And no, you can't update pixel shaders, you just have to buy a new card.

[Kirska]

What about a build something like this... how well do you think it would perform in WAR? I get a free copy of Vista through my college which I can't use on my current computer (can't handle it) so this would run Vista. I've never built a PC before, so I'm new to all this.

http://secure.newegg.com/NewVersion/wishlist/PublicWishDetail.asp?WishListNumber=6635871 (http://secure.newegg.com/NewVersion/wishlist/PublicWishDetail.asp?WishListNumber=6635871)

Summary:
GIGABYTE GA-P35-DS3P LGA 775 Intel P35 ATX Intel Motherboard

MSI NX8600GTS-T2D256E-OC GeForce 8600GTS 256MB 128-bit GDDR3 PCI Express x16 HDCP Ready SLI Supported Video Card

OCZ GameXStream OCZ700GXSSLI ATX12V 700W Power Supply

Intel Core 2 Duo E6750 Conroe 2.66GHz LGA 775 65W Dual-Core Processor

G.SKILL 2GB (2 x 1GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 800 (PC2 6400) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory

Seagate Barracuda 250GB 7200 RPM SATA 3.0Gb/s Hard Drive

[Silentium]

Summary:
GIGABYTE GA-P35-DS3P LGA 775 Intel P35 ATX Intel Motherboard

MSI NX8600GTS-T2D256E-OC GeForce 8600GTS 256MB 128-bit GDDR3 PCI Express x16 HDCP Ready SLI Supported Video Card

OCZ GameXStream OCZ700GXSSLI ATX12V 700W Power Supply

Intel Core 2 Duo E6750 Conroe 2.66GHz LGA 775 65W Dual-Core Processor

G.SKILL 2GB (2 x 1GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 800 (PC2 6400) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory

Seagate Barracuda 250GB 7200 RPM SATA 3.0Gb/s Hard Drive


I have the same motherboard and cpu. I'm very happy with both. The only thing I would change is that if you could swing another $100 or so go for the 8800 GT instead of the 8600. I'd have to find some benchmarks to make sure but the difference between them should be pretty noticeable.

[Vid]

I have the same motherboard and cpu. I'm very happy with both. The only thing I would change is that if you could swing another $100 or so go for the 8800 GT instead of the 8600. I'd have to find some benchmarks to make sure but the difference between them should be pretty noticeable.

I agree the 8800GT is by far the better video card if you compare price to performance. Tom's Hardware site performance test show that the 8800GTX provide 12% more performance for double the price.

http://www.tomshardware.com/2007/10/29/geforce_8800_gt/

[SineNomine]

I agree the 8800GT is by far the better video card if you compare price to performance. Tom's Hardware site performance test show that the 8800GTX provide 12% more performance for double the price.

http://www.tomshardware.com/2007/10/29/geforce_8800_gt/

Agreed. The 8800GT is a much more logical choice in terms of performance, price, and how long it will last until being outdated as compared to the 8600. It's a bit more expensive sure, but you'll be saving more money in the long run.

I've been updating a rig I've created every month or so, for the past two, and will continue to do so until WAR is nearly out. Right now I'm sitting at about 690 dollars for everything, excluding a OS, of which I'm hoping I can obtain through another source that is less expensive. But it includes:

Memory - G.Skill 2 GB
MOBO - Asus M2N AM2 Nvidia nForce 430 MCP ATX AMD
HD - Seagate Barracuda 7200.10 250 GB 7200 RPM 16 MB Cache
VC - Evga 8800 GT
PS - Rosewill RP 550V2 550W
CPU - AMD Athlon 64 X2 5600 2.8 GHz

And a random arse case that I really enjoyed looking at, I did the calculations and it game out to (with s/h) $691.80. -shrug- It's my first computer I've crafted also, I've just taken the time out to check out the most bought/highest rated ones in my price range and I think it's going to work for me for what I'm needing. -crosses fingers-

[Ofaloaf]

Oi, seems I'm set for WAR, then.

AMD Athlon 64 Processor 3200+, roughly 2GHz (although it's next on the "to-do" list of upgrades)
1Gb RAM
EVGA GeForce 8800 GTS (320Mb memory)
Still running DirectX9.0c
Something like 750GB left of free disk space on the comp.

I really do recommend EVGA cards for anybody out there who's shopping for a video card. The 8800 GTS is fairly large, though, and we had to shift around a few wires before the thing fit in my comp. Make sure that if you do get one you have enough room.

[Silentium]

For SineNomine:
Make sure it's a case with good ventilation. My EVGA 8800 GT idled around 60c and if I'm playing a really heavy game would heat up to around ~85. I bought another slot cooler for it and now it ranges about 55-80.

Nvidia said it can handle 90-100c but that's outside of my comfort zone for PC parts.

Setting up fan profiles with rivatuner is another helpful change.

The 8800 GTS is fairly large, though, and we had to shift around a few wires before the thing fit in my comp. Make sure that if you do get one you have enough room.
Is that the new GTS (512MB) or the older ones (320/640MB)? The GT beats out the old GTS versions, is a bit slower than the new one.

I agree on EVGA. I've gone to them for my past 3 cards and all ran without a hitch. They have a lifetime replacement policy too.

[mrchocotaco]

Awesome, I bought myself a Nvidia Geforce 7600 for real cheap recently, glad to know that I'm up to par with the "tough guys."
:p

[Steel*Faith]

Great guide, thank you.

[Ofaloaf]

Is that the new GTS (512MB) or the older ones (320/640MB)? The GT beats out the old GTS versions, is a bit slower than the new one.

I agree on EVGA. I've gone to them for my past 3 cards and all ran without a hitch. They have a lifetime replacement policy too.
320Mb. Got the GTS this past summer off of Newegg, so it isn't quite top-of-the-line.

[Rolzar]

Reading this thread has helped a lot so far, and it has lead me to gather the courage to attempt building a computer. Once i buy all the parts, is it difficult? Do i need to know any type of programming, or do i just pop everything together and go? Thanks for the help.

[PeterPan]

Reading this thread has helped a lot so far, and it has lead me to gather the courage to attempt building a computer. Once i buy all the parts, is it difficult? Do i need to know any type of programming, or do i just pop everything together and go? Thanks for the help.Its not that hard, just follow instructions included with the bos. If you have trouble try an online guide.

[Silentium]

Reading this thread has helped a lot so far, and it has lead me to gather the courage to attempt building a computer. Once i buy all the parts, is it difficult? Do i need to know any type of programming, or do i just pop everything together and go? Thanks for the help.

Gets more doable every year. If you buy all your own parts you're good to go. The motherboards usually ship with big glossy fold out instructions that show you where everything goes and a manual that does the same. Nearly every plug only fits in one place and in a certain way so it's hard to mess up. Putting in the processor has always been stressful for me (It's actually the clamping down of the heatsink that does it. AMD scarred me for life with fears of cracked exposed dies.)

If you can follow instructions, it's cake. No programming required. Might need to fiddle with BIOS for some changes but that's unlikely. Nearly everything is autoconfigured.

A friend of mine decided to try building her own computer to save money, knowing nothing of how to do it. Aside from a panicky phone call that she thought the power source was bad (it was switched off in the back) it went without a hitch.

[Amarll]

Alright I know I have an Nvidia GEForce on my Dell XP Home edition but I an unable to find out what number is it. How would I do that? Also would I need my computer or am I able to find out on a website? I'm currently on vacation with my family in Colorado I only brought my Laptop which I use for work etc, none of that hardcore gaming technology. Or would I have to wait until I get my Comp back?

PS: I was able to run Planetside (lag fest) game with the best quality and only get a little lag here and there. Could you give me an accurate type I have? I can also run WoW with Itunes Xfire MSN and a couple Firefoxes running on the top quality and get lag now and then.

[Valador]

Go to Run and type in dxdiag

Click on the display tab. It will tell you about your card. You need to have your computer with you to do this.

If you bought a premade computer with the card already onboard, you could try doing an online search for that computer on websites still selling it and see what you find. Chances are, if you bought it premade, it has a really onboard card.

[Amarll]

Go to Run and type in dxdiag

Click on the display tab. It will tell you about your card. You need to have your computer with you to do this.

If you bought a premade computer with the card already onboard, you could try doing an online search for that computer on websites still selling it and see what you find. Chances are, if you bought it premade, it has a really onboard card.

No I upgraded everything when I bought the comp. I just have recently forgotten what Nvidia card we have.

[mrchocotaco]

I have an AMD Athlon XP 2500+ 1.83 GHz. I realize this guide is unofficial but what would your opinion be on how well my CPU could run this game? If you need information on my other specs, right now I have 1GB of RAM but will have around 2.5GB by the release of the game. I have more than enough hard drive space and my video card is a Nvidia GeForce 7600 GS.

[Silentium]

I have an AMD Athlon XP 2500+ 1.83 GHz. I realize this guide is unofficial but what would your opinion be on how well my CPU could run this game? If you need information on my other specs, right now I have 1GB of RAM but will have around 2.5GB by the release of the game. I have more than enough hard drive space and my video card is a Nvidia GeForce 7600 GS.

It'll run, but I think it'll be closer to the trailing edge. If you upgrade the RAM the processor will be the biggest bottleneck.

[mrchocotaco]

It'll run, but I think it'll be closer to the trailing edge. If you upgrade the RAM the processor will be the biggest bottleneck.

That's what I figured. I'm going out to get 2GB of RAM this weekend. By the time the game comes out I will probably have gotten a new processor as well.

[PeterPan]

2GB of ram, either upgrade the processor or OC it and you should be ok on medium

[Kirska]

Question...

How do you know what watt power supply to get? Is there some way to add up all the parts of a computer?

[Silentium]

Question...

How do you know what watt power supply to get? Is there some way to add up all the parts of a computer?

In looking for a good reference for you I just stumbled across this which appears to be a very good calculator for it:
http://www.extreme.outervision.com/psucalculatorlite.jsp

I try to overshoot necessary wattage by a fair margin for later upgrades.

[Valinox Ruina]

Reading this thread has helped a lot so far, and it has lead me to gather the courage to attempt building a computer. Once i buy all the parts, is it difficult? Do i need to know any type of programming, or do i just pop everything together and go? Thanks for the help.

The hardest part is applying the right amount of thermal paste to your heatsinks if they dont come pre-applied :D (inside joke from tomshardware)

[Aeilorian]

So, currently I have:
AMD AthlonTM 64 X2 Dual-Core Processor 5600+
3072 MB Ram
Way more then enough hard drive space.
NVIDIA GeForce 6150 SE Graphics
Window Vista Home Premium

Basically the only thing I am worried about is the graphics card, the computer itself is new (xmas gift) and if I need to get a better card it would probably be easiest to replace now. Would it be a good idea to go out and get a new one or is it not really a big deal?

[PeterPan]

Your system is great, but that weak integrated graphics card will drag you down.

I would recommend a new graphics card and you will be fine.

[Roargh Growler]

1 month before the game comes out would be the best time to get something for your system, like a video card.
By that time there are more faster cards or the older ones cheap as hell.

[Aeilorian]

Thanks, figured about that, probably upgrading mine to at least a GeForce 8600.

[AeoNovA]

I hope there is amazing graphic options for the higher end pcs... I had planned on building a new rig for this game and several others coming out next year.

[Mad Squig]

I hate to say it guys but do you think we can get a sticky to this thread? Until an Official posting can be made and or when the NDA is released.

[Bluntman]

the game wont run with DX10 will it? i mean i know you could play it with DX10 but it wont make much of a difference besides probably making it smoother, so i dont see why a DX10 GFX card would run it any better unless your talking an 8800 series.

[Rolzar]

With everyones encouraging words on how easy it will be, I've drawn myself up a wish list on newegg. I don't know much about computers, but from the reviews and prices of each product Ive decided this build would most likely work best for me. Id appreciate it if anyone more knowledgeable in computers could check it over for me, and make sure their is no piece Im missing, incompatible parts, or just general advice. Anyways, here it is https://secure.newegg.com/NewVersion/Wishlist/PublicWishDetail.asp?WishListNumber=8001068&WishListTitle=Warhammer+Online+Rig

[Gheris]

Sigh.. the new graphics cards are running close to 700$ a pop..!

Do you know how tantalizing it is to see such an awesome piece of hardware available to you but at the same time be restricted by financial chains? It's like dying a million deaths to a level 1 Young Wolf. :(

[Ravenwing]

With everyones encouraging words on how easy it will be, I've drawn myself up a wish list on newegg. I don't know much about computers, but from the reviews and prices of each product Ive decided this build would most likely work best for me. Id appreciate it if anyone more knowledgeable in computers could check it over for me, and make sure their is no piece Im missing, incompatible parts, or just general advice. Anyways, here it is https://secure.newegg.com/NewVersion/Wishlist/PublicWishDetail.asp?WishListNumber=8001068&WishListTitle=Warhammer+Online+Rig

massive overkill on the powersupply :)

[Roargh Growler]

U chose an AMD motherboard and an INTEL processor.
Get another motherboard, SLI is not needed i tell ya.

[Rolzar]

Ok, ive updated the list with an intel motherboard and a cheaper powersupply, both reducing the price of the comp. check it out now.https://secure.newegg.com/NewVersion/Wishlist/PublicWishDetail.asp?WishListNumber=8001068&WishListTitle=Warhammer+Online+Rig

[Wthermans]

Ok, ive updated the list with an intel motherboard and a cheaper powersupply, both reducing the price of the comp. check it out now.https://secure.newegg.com/NewVersion/Wishlist/PublicWishDetail.asp?WishListNumber=8001068&WishListTitle=Warhammer+Online+Rig

You need to have an OS as well. If you're going with 32bit then 4gb memory is overkill as the 32bit OS won't recognize all 4gigs. x64 or Vista ultimate if you want to stay with 4gb

[Rolzar]

Thanks for the help, just added windows vista ultimate to the list.

[mrchocotaco]

Ok, I bought more RAM for my computer and this is what I'm working with now:
Windows XP
AMD Athlon 2500+ 1.83 GHz
Nvidia GeForce 7600 GS
2.5 GB RAm
7+ GB of free hard drive space.

My computer upstairs has an AMD Athlon 2600+ 2.13 GHz. Would it be worth the effort to switch the processors? It is an improvement but not a great one.

[Black Razor]

I'm running an

AMD Athlon 64X2 4800 2.4 gig
Windows Vista Premium (with 90% of its services cut off..)
2 gig RAM
ATI Radeon x1950 512meg
300 GB 10,000 RPM Maxtor HD (281G free)

I can run ANY current MMO on the market at full settings and still get WELL OVER (average 45-50) 30 FPS, I currently play LOTRO, EVE, and Tabula Rasa (the later of which is a serious resource hog). I also am beta testing POTBS and have no issues there either. On the same system I have ran WOW in every environment and even large pvp battles, as well as COX with full settings running. No issues. You do NOT need a 3000$ computer to run MMOs. I think my system total cost me .. like .. 500$ about a year ago to build (that doesn't include a case.. I custom built mine), would probably be cheaper now. I am upgrading to a GF8600GT 512 into her and a PhysX card .. which both in total are costing me 200$ .. for the sake of several games I play that use PhysX architecture and the 8600Gt is DX10 compliant .. my 1950 isn't.. but beyond that I see no foreseeable need to upgrade for at least another two years. And even then its my processor thats the choke point which is upgradeable (my MB can take up to a 3gig dual core) and able to overclocked up to 2.8 gigs stable. In short .. don't go nuts buying thousands of dollars worth of crap just to play WAR .. you wont need it.

[Brégon]

Hi guys im in serious need of upgrading my comp as i think i still have an agp motherboard.
Here is my current spec:
3.06 p4 ht
1gig ram
6600 256mb geforce

thats all that really matters, now the question is and what i've been looking into via the web is, do i upgrade to 2gig ram and the best agp card i believe a 7950 gt 512mb or something? or do i save the cash and buy a new comp before release supporting PCI-E? a new monitor would be needed too actually but thats not gonna stop high end graphics etc im just talking whats required.
I really want to run the game at hopefully top end would this be possible with the agp upgrades im looking at?
What really brought it home was COD4, my graphics card just runs it at min settings, i unlocked a golden gun and i was ooooh, THE GUN LOOKED THE SAME AS STARTING COLOUR, i was gutted but then i fiddled with pixel shader and alas i had my golden gun but still not very great to play in multiplayer :roll: anyway rant over!

[Wthermans]

Hi guys im in serious need of upgrading my comp as i think i still have an agp motherboard.
Here is my current spec:
3.06 p4 ht
1gig ram
6600 256mb geforce

thats all that really matters, now the question is and what i've been looking into via the web is, do i upgrade to 2gig ram and the best agp card i believe a 7950 gt 512mb or something? or do i save the cash and buy a new comp before release supporting PCI-E? a new monitor would be needed too actually but thats not gonna stop high end graphics etc im just talking whats required.
I really want to run the game at hopefully top end would this be possible with the agp upgrades im looking at?
What really brought it home was COD4, my graphics card just runs it at min settings, i unlocked a golden gun and i was ooooh, THE GUN LOOKED THE SAME AS STARTING COLOUR, i was gutted but then i fiddled with pixel shader and alas i had my golden gun but still not very great to play in multiplayer :roll: anyway rant over!
AGP is a dead technology. There may be some offerings of cards, but your selection is going to be slim and shrink by the day. Your best bet is to save up and buy a new PC right before release with the best bang for the buck technology. The new Nvidia cards will be out by then and current tech prices will drop. The only reason to upgrade an AGP machine at this point is if you simply want to maximize your AGP rig and happen to find a good deal on compatible tech. Upgrading an AGP rig to be your primary machine is just restricting your options for the future as well as restricting the performance you could be receiving with PCI-E tech.

[Gheris]

AGP is a dead technology. There may be some offerings of cards, but your selection is going to be slim and shrink by the day. Your best bet is to save up and buy a new PC right before release with the best bang for the buck technology. The new Nvidia cards will be out by then and current tech prices will drop. The only reason to upgrade an AGP machine at this point is if you simply want to maximize your AGP rig and happen to find a good deal on compatible tech. Upgrading an AGP rig to be your primary machine is just restricting your options for the future as well as restricting the performance you could be receiving with PCI-E tech.

A question I have with upgrading right before the game comes out is if I want to get the best system I could possibly get for WAR and other games coming in 2008 will I have to shell out close to 500$ for cards like this
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&DEPA=0&Description=evga+8800&x=0&y=0

Or am I equally okay with a less expensive card?
What exactly makes the 500$ so much more great than the 200-300$ ones?

[Brégon]

Thx for the advice, think it makes sense to wait till the new hardware comes out reducing prices overall before i buy a high end rig. Any idea what month that may be because what WAR comes out in say june time?

[Wthermans]

A question I have with upgrading right before the game comes out is if I want to get the best system I could possibly get for WAR and other games coming in 2008 will I have to shell out close to 500$ for cards like this
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&DEPA=0&Description=evga+8800&x=0&y=0

Or am I equally okay with a less expensive card?
What exactly makes the 500$ so much more great than the 200-300$ ones?

The best card for your money right now is the 8800GT. It's a $300 card that performs better than the old 8800GTS 320/640mb cards. The 8800GTX (card I currently have) are really advantageous in FPS games where framerate is vital and there's a lot more action on the screen. MMOs tend to have reduced particle effects/polygons/bump mapping/texture detail than their FPS counterparts simply because you're in a game where you could have hundreds of individual players on the screen. For something like WAR you will be fine getting a good mid range card. The best thing to do is check out reviews from different tech sites (I like Tomshardware.com or sharkyextreme.com, but there are many others out there) and see what they are suggesting for your price range when you are ready to buy.

As for what hardware changes are coming out, I know Nvidia is looking to release their 9000 series (specifically the 9800GTS and 9800GTX) in the coming months. They are currently releasing their G92 architechure cards to replace the G90 (8800GT is G92, old 8800GTS/GTX are G90, most recent 8800GTS release is G92).

[Gheris]

The best card for your money right now is the 8800GT. It's a $300 card that performs better than the old 8800GTS 320/640mb cards. The 8800GTX (card I currently have) are really advantageous in FPS games where framerate is vital and there's a lot more action on the screen. MMOs tend to have reduced particle effects/polygons/bump mapping/texture detail than their FPS counterparts simply because you're in a game where you could have hundreds of individual players on the screen. For something like WAR you will be fine getting a good mid range card. The best thing to do is check out reviews from different tech sites (I like Tomshardware.com or sharkyextreme.com, but there are many others out there) and see what they are suggesting for your price range when you are ready to buy.

As for what hardware changes are coming out, I know Nvidia is looking to release their 9000 series (specifically the 9800GTS and 9800GTX) in the coming months. They are currently releasing their G92 architechure cards to replace the G90 (8800GT is G92, old 8800GTS/GTX are G90, most recent 8800GTS release is G92).

Hmm I see.. well I plan on getting a few upcoming FPS's as well so I may be looking into the 9000's / 8800GT's and definitely be checking out tomshardware.com / sharkyextreme.com / hardforum.com for review comparisons. Thanks for the advice :).

[mrchocotaco]

Ok, I bought more RAM for my computer and this is what I'm working with now:
Windows XP
AMD Athlon 2500+ 1.83 GHz
Nvidia GeForce 7600 GS
2.5 GB RAm
7+ GB of free hard drive space.

My computer upstairs has an AMD Athlon 2600+ 2.13 GHz. Would it be worth the effort to switch the processors? It is an improvement but not a great one.

My post kind of got overlooked on the last page, would anyone mind helping me out?

[Roargh Growler]

If you don`t want to spend much on that system, try to swap and overclock that other processor, or if the AGP motherboard, wich it likely is, fits an DualCoreAMD.

Truth be told if you dont upgrade or overclock the processor, the difference between those 2 will not even be noticeable.

[BobTheOrc]

Ima upgrade myself from the crap I have now to a Core2Duo and a 8800GT.

Can't wait to kill this games FPS.

[Lymph]

uhhh. i have a geforce 5500 128 mb. so i guess ima weak guy. how much would a "tough guy" card be? cause i only have $183 dollars handy on me atm. -_-

[SKYeXile]

uhhh. i have a geforce 5500 128 mb. so i guess ima weak guy. how much would a "tough guy" card be? cause i only have $183 dollars handy on me atm. -_-

a 5500 would be an AGP card you would need to find a card thats AGP not PCIe

[SineNomine]

uhhh. i have a geforce 5500 128 mb. so i guess ima weak guy. how much would a "tough guy" card be? cause i only have $183 dollars handy on me atm. -_-

You've got a few months until you even need to have the better card for WAR, I'd say start saving up piece by piece and order it on Newegg. You should have more than enough money by then to be able to purchase even the 8800 GT which is the prime card currently.

In light of your current AGP predicament, you're going to have to build a new computer probably. Despite that, you've still got 4-ish months, with that 183$ currently, saved and a small deposit each month until the game is fresh in the stores, it shouldn't be too bad piecing together a computer that runs WAR smoothly.

[SKYeXile]

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814150174

probably the best card you can get for that price.

[Lymph]

first off, im 16 years old, with no job :( and i usually pay for these games monthly and get my money from christmas and birthday, since i dont get allowance. im not sure if i can get that much in time :(
But i have 3.0 ghz, 1.5 gb of ram. 250 gb of hard drive.
and i have a PCI graphics card

[Lymph]

ok im pretty new to indept about graphics card. byt atm, i have a GeforceFX 5500 128mb PCI. im looking on newegg to see what i can get for a good price, and they keey saying PCI express. is that same as just PCI?

[Lymph]

if u find a good deal from newegg on a PCI graphics card plz tell me

[Gheris]

If I get a motherboard that supports SLI is it possible for me to get just one graphics card first and then add another one later on? Or do they have to be the same model?

[sb220]

ok im pretty new to indept about graphics card. byt atm, i have a GeforceFX 5500 128mb PCI. im looking on newegg to see what i can get for a good price, and they keey saying PCI express. is that same as just PCI?

No not the same. You need to unplug your computer and look at the Motherboard for an AGP slot...slightly smaller and probably a different color than your PCI slots. Should be labelled in small type beside it on the motherboard, AGP.

If ya dont...try downloading and playing one of the free trials of EQ2 or LOTRO. If you can run those games you should be able to run WAR....cant promise you wont get a slideshow in big battles though

Spending money on a slightly better pci card probably isnt worth it...it wont get much better than what you have I think.

If I get a motherboard that supports SLI is it possible for me to get just one graphics card first and then add another one later on? Or do they have to be the same model?

Yes you can add the second card later and it has to be the same type of card.

[Gheris]

Yes you can add the second card later and it has to be the same type of card.

Man PCs are getting expensive...

What would probably be better? Two decent-good cards on SLI (with a bigger resolution so that the cards could actually be put to use) or one top-of-the-line graphics card?

[Wthermans]

Man PCs are getting expensive...

What would probably be better? Two decent-good cards on SLI (with a bigger resolution so that the cards could actually be put to use) or one top-of-the-line graphics card?

IMO one top of the line card > 2 mid range cards

The price to performance ratio is too low for me to justify SLI.

[Gheris]

IMO one top of the line card > 2 mid range cards

The price to performance ratio is too low for me to justify SLI.

Ah okay, I'll probably just get one top-of-the-line card then if the price drops later then I can shove that second one in there.

Thank you sb220 and Wthermans.

[sb220]

Man PCs are getting expensive...

What would probably be better? Two decent-good cards on SLI (with a bigger resolution so that the cards could actually be put to use) or one top-of-the-line graphics card?

like others have said 8800gt...no need to sli unless you just like to spend money

[Lymph]

No not the same. You need to unplug your computer and look at the Motherboard for an AGP slot...slightly smaller and probably a different color than your PCI slots. Should be labelled in small type beside it on the motherboard, AGP.

If ya dont...try downloading and playing one of the free trials of EQ2 or LOTRO. If you can run those games you should be able to run WAR....cant promise you wont get a slideshow in big battles though

Spending money on a slightly better pci card probably isnt worth it...it wont get much better than what you have I think.



Yes you can add the second card later and it has to be the same type of card.

cool cool, ive played the demo of LOTRO. :)

[PeterPan]

ok im pretty new to indept about graphics card. byt atm, i have a GeforceFX 5500 128mb PCI. im looking on newegg to see what i can get for a good price, and they keey saying PCI express. is that same as just PCI?No, PCI and PCI Express are different.

A FX5500 might be able to handle the game on low... but I would recommend an upgrade. I used to have one and it was kinda medicore on World of Warcraft.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814103031 This card should be able to handle the game on medium...

The Radeon X1550 was the last card they made for the PCI bus... its about on par with a Geforce 6600 GO

[KaOs ReapeR]

ok so im goin to buy a new pc for WAR (well not just for war but for other games also and becuase my ones really old and due for an update) im extremely confident these specs will be ale to run it on high in the mojority of conflicts as i highly doubt mythic will be foolish enough to raise the avergae specs this high but i just wanted youse lots opinion on wether you think itle run WAR on high in big fights...

AMD Athlon X2 4600 64 Bit Processor (2 x 2.2GHz)
2GB DDR2 667MHz Dual Channel Ram
320GB Serial ATA II Hard Drive
nVidia 8600GT 512MB PCI-E Graphics

[PeterPan]

ok so im goin to buy a new pc for WAR (well not just for war but for other games also and becuase my ones really old and due for an update) im extremely confident these specs will be ale to run it on high in the mojority of conflicts as i highly doubt mythic will be foolish enough to raise the avergae specs this high but i just wanted youse lots opinion on wether you think itle run WAR on high in big fights...

AMD Athlon X2 4600 64 Bit Processor (2 x 2.2GHz)
2GB DDR2 667MHz Dual Channel Ram
320GB Serial ATA II Hard Drive
nVidia 8600GT 512MB PCI-E GraphicsThat pc should work great.

[KaOs ReapeR]

That pc should work great.
awsome:o

Now would it be better to get XP and use directx 9 with my graphics card or
Get Vista and run directx 10?

I am tempted to just get xp and run direct x 9 considerin i am familier with it and have herd here i think that war does not support direct x 10 anyways considerin there seems to be alot of pc guys around here could one of you tell me what you would go for XP or Vista

[Black Razor]

awsome:o

Now would it be better to get XP and use directx 9 with my graphics card or
Get Vista and run directx 10?

I am tempted to just get xp and run direct x 9 considering I am familiar with it and have herd here i think that war does not support direct x 10 anyways considering there seems to be alot of pc guys around here could one of you tell me what you would go for XP or Vista

Vista and DX10. It will let you run all the games like WAR that take DX9 no problem (after a few DLL downloads anyways) .. and still leave the option open for other games that do support DX10. I have almost the exact same system you do now and theres nothing on the market (including several next gen betas .. no .. not WAR though.) I can't run smooth as silk.

[Ravana]

Didn't i once see someone say in an interview that they were aiming to make the system req. close to those of WoW?

That looks considerably higher.

[Freax]

Something tells me this game is going to be big, more like 12 GB.

[PeterPan]

Didn't i once see someone say in an interview that they were aiming to make the system req. close to those of WoW?

That looks considerably higher.The game is DX9, WoW is DX7. The Geforce 5 series and Radeon 9X00 series were the first DX9 cards ever released, notice most of them are on the list as working.

Older cards like the Geforce 2 and ATI Rage 128 series are DX7 and cannot process a DX9 game. They might work for WoW but you would get a boot error on Warhammer. Any PC made within the past 4 years probably has a DX9 card in it.

WoW really went deep on its system requirements, it can even run on some PC's from the late 90's.

[Silentium]

The game is DX9, WoW is DX7.

Source for WoW being DX7?

Listed system requirements are 9.0c.
http://www.worldofwarcraft.com/info/faq/technology.html
http://forums.wow-europe.com/thread.html;jsessionid=BF5EFDC798524A902C0DCEDBE7D A7014.app09_01?topicId=2111792014&postId=21112521440&sid=1#3

[PeterPan]

The game is listed as being compatiable with a Geforce 2 on the box. A Geforce 2 is a DX7 only card... I also used to run it on an Intel GMA 850, which was a DX8 card.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GeForce2

Your completely wasting your time challenging my knowledge on these things.

[Silentium]

The game is listed as being compatiable with a Geforce 2 on the box. A Geforce 2 is a DX7 only card... I also used to run it on an Intel GMA 850, which was a DX8 card.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GeForce2 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GeForce2)
Makes sense to me, thanks. :)


You're completely wasting your time challenging my knowledge on these things. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GeForce2)
Um... ok?

There are enough baseless claims on these forums that people take for granted. If I don't understand something or disagree I look for verification. You provided it. I learned something. So I don't consider it completely wasting my time. But thanks for your concern!

[KaOs ReapeR]

Vista and DX10. It will let you run all the games like WAR that take DX9 no problem (after a few DLL downloads anyways) .. and still leave the option open for other games that do support DX10. I have almost the exact same system you do now and theres nothing on the market (including several next gen betas .. no .. not WAR though.) I can't run smooth as silk.

wats dll downloads?

so if i get direct x 10 i have to download some sorta patch or suming before WAR will run on it? cant i just pull out the cd, insert, istall, play? (minus the other parts subscirption etc)

[Bokchoi]

My computer just about meets the recommended requirements for Guildwars. Do you think that will be enough?

[PeterPan]

Probably, post them and I can say for sure.

[Isknisark]

My stats:
Pentium(R) 4 CPU 3.00GHz
2.00 GB of RAM
NVIDIA GeForce 7600 GS
Windows XP

According to this I should be able to run it, no?

[Maloka]

Yes.


10 letters

[Ravenwing]

ok so im goin to buy a new pc for WAR (well not just for war but for other games also and becuase my ones really old and due for an update) im extremely confident these specs will be ale to run it on high in the mojority of conflicts as i highly doubt mythic will be foolish enough to raise the avergae specs this high but i just wanted youse lots opinion on wether you think itle run WAR on high in big fights...

AMD Athlon X2 4600 64 Bit Processor (2 x 2.2GHz)
2GB DDR2 667MHz Dual Channel Ram
320GB Serial ATA II Hard Drive
nVidia 8600GT 512MB PCI-E Graphics

Wait till the 9600GT is out (between now and 2 months) it's a significant improvement over a 8600gt and will be around the same price. The 8600GT is basicly a failed product - hardly faster than the card it was suppose to replace, the 7600GT. Judging from your post it seems your first gaming priority will be WAR so I think waiting for 2 months tops should be doable.

[PeterPan]

Im waiting on the S3 Chrome 460 PCI-E, it was suppose to be out in December but was delayed. About time to upgrade my S3 Chrome S7...

I say screw Nvidia and ATI personally, but most people tend to go with them so I act as free tech support for the masses.

[Valkyra]

Hello all,
I've recently joined the WAR community after quitting WoW and have a question about my system based on this these theoretical specs.

My processor is a 1.9 GHz AMD Turion 64 X2 TL - 58. (Duo Core)
My video card is a NVIDIA GeForce Go 7150M Graphics Card (559 MB total memory), however it is shared/integrated.
I've got 2GB DDR2 Memory.

I was just wondering if those specs are sufficient to run at a medium or so rate. My main concern is the video card, since it is integrated, I don't know how much of a pitfall that is for me.

Thanks.

[PeterPan]

Hello all,
I've recently joined the WAR community after quitting WoW and have a question about my system based on this these theoretical specs.

My processor is a 1.9 GHz AMD Turion 64 X2 TL - 58. (Duo Core)
My video card is a NVIDIA GeForce Go 7150M Graphics Card (559 MB total memory), however it is shared/integrated.
I've got 2GB DDR2 Memory.

I was just wondering if those specs are sufficient to run at a medium or so rate. My main concern is the video card, since it is integrated, I don't know how much of a pitfall that is for me.

Thanks.You should do ok on medium.

[PeterPan]

I made alot of updates and revisions to the list, moving a few things around and adding more detail.

[banrak]

I'm considering this system that will cost me around 900$:

- AMD DUALCORE X2 6000+, (2x 3.0GHZ)
- ASUS M2N-MX SE motherboard
- 512MB DDR3 GEFORCE 8800GT (2X DIGITAL DVI), NVIDIA
- 250GB SATAII HARDDRIVE, 7200RPM, SEAGATE
- 2GB DDR800 *DUALCHANNEL* DDR2 RAM, PC6400

It also has a lot of good cooling and should be somewhat quiet. Is it worth the money? (I live in Denmark, so might be hard to compare prices I guess). For around 150$ more I could get the duo2core E6850, would that be a major improvement, or just a slight one? I realize that the system will run WAR well, but I'm also thinking a little ahead, so I don't have to upgrade too soon.

There's an option to upgrade the RAM to Corsairs XMS2(whatever that means ), still 2gb for around 35$ is that worth the extra money?

Also an option to upgrade the motherboard to ASUS M2N-E SLI for 40$, worth the extra money?

I really don't know a lot about these things, so this thread is just awesome!

[Ashanor]

first off, im 16 years old, with no jobSo get a job in the evenings for a few months and save your money until you have enough to build the PC you want. It's not like you have any living expenses or anything, everything you make can go into savings.

[Jg117]

Is there somewhere I can go to get a list of everything my computer has in it? I know my RAM but thats pretty much it so I'm not sure how my computer stacks up against the requirements.

[Darner]

Start --> Run --> dxdiag

[Jg117]

I knew it would be something simple, thanks.

[PeterPan]

I'm considering this system that will cost me around 900$:

- AMD DUALCORE X2 6000+, (2x 3.0GHZ)
- ASUS M2N-MX SE motherboard
- 512MB DDR3 GEFORCE 8800GT (2X DIGITAL DVI), NVIDIA
- 250GB SATAII HARDDRIVE, 7200RPM, SEAGATE
- 2GB DDR800 *DUALCHANNEL* DDR2 RAM, PC6400

It also has a lot of good cooling and should be somewhat quiet. Is it worth the money? (I live in Denmark, so might be hard to compare prices I guess). For around 150$ more I could get the duo2core E6850, would that be a major improvement, or just a slight one? I realize that the system will run WAR well, but I'm also thinking a little ahead, so I don't have to upgrade too soon.

There's an option to upgrade the RAM to Corsairs XMS2(whatever that means ), still 2gb for around 35$ is that worth the extra money?

Also an option to upgrade the motherboard to ASUS M2N-E SLI for 40$, worth the extra money?

I really don't know a lot about these things, so this thread is just awesome!I always found buying more than one graphics card for a PC to be a waste of money.

If you buy a graphics card it should be powerful enough to hold its own on its own.

[banrak]

I always found buying more than one graphics card for a PC to be a waste of money.

If you buy a graphics card it should be powerful enough to hold its own on its own.
Yea I agree, but what do you think about the AMD DUALCORE X2 6000 vs. Intel duo2core E6850? Is the E6850 worth the extra ~150$ ?

[PeterPan]

I don't think so, no.

[Aerfalle]

Quote:
Originally Posted by banrak http://www.warhammeralliance.com/forums/images/WHA/buttons/viewpost.gif (http://www.warhammeralliance.com/forums/showthread.php?p=606609#post606609)
I'm considering this system that will cost me around 900$:

- AMD DUALCORE X2 6000+, (2x 3.0GHZ)
- ASUS M2N-MX SE motherboard
- 512MB DDR3 GEFORCE 8800GT (2X DIGITAL DVI), NVIDIA
- 250GB SATAII HARDDRIVE, 7200RPM, SEAGATE
- 2GB DDR800 *DUALCHANNEL* DDR2 RAM, PC6400

It also has a lot of good cooling and should be somewhat quiet. Is it worth the money? (I live in Denmark, so might be hard to compare prices I guess). For around 150$ more I could get the duo2core E6850, would that be a major improvement, or just a slight one? I realize that the system will run WAR well, but I'm also thinking a little ahead, so I don't have to upgrade too soon.

There's an option to upgrade the RAM to Corsairs XMS2(whatever that means ), still 2gb for around 35$ is that worth the extra money?

Also an option to upgrade the motherboard to ASUS M2N-E SLI for 40$, worth the extra money?

I really don't know a lot about these things, so this thread is just awesome!
I always found buying more than one graphics card for a PC to be a waste of money.

If you buy a graphics card it should be powerful enough to hold its own on its own.

what? nothing of what you said makes any sense
2 SLI cards gives about 1.8 * performence and 3 SLI gives 2.8 *performance at graphic card bottleneck situations. 2*200 > 1*400 for BETTER performance. BETTER performance waste of money :S,,,

"powerful enough" lol yea im to proud to have suxh a crappy card that can be put in SLI/ X lawl


Banrak if you choose to go for SLI you can pretty much almost double your graphic performance later if you so would wish and I would certainly reccomend it! just remember you need an identical card to put in SLI so get a 8800 from a known manufacturer.

Regarding the RAM I wouldnt bother for gaming since it probably just means that they will be better clocked and you wouldnt get the bang for the buck!

PS if you are new to building computers quadruple check compability

[Valador]

I found this while cleaning out my favorites folders today, this may be useful for some people who want to compare processors.

http://www.systemshootouts.org/processors.html

[banrak]

Banrak if you choose to go for SLI you can pretty much almost double your graphic performance later if you so would wish and I would certainly reccomend it! just remember you need an identical card to put in SLI so get a 8800 from a known manufacturer.

Regarding the RAM I wouldnt bother for gaming since it probably just means that they will be better clocked and you wouldnt get the bang for the buck!

PS if you are new to building computers quadruple check compability
So if I get the SLI I will be able to put an extra card in, some time in the future? As long as the two cards are exactly the same? Also, I'm not gonna build it myself, it's from a store that allows for some customizations. I don't think I could a build one myself hehe.

[PeterPan]

Im currently building a new one completely by myself, here is what im using:

-AMD Athlon 64 X2 Dual Core 2.4 GHZ

-VIA K9VGM-V Motherboard

-S3 Chrome 460 512MB DDR3 (X1 Digital Dvi) S3 inc. (PCI-E)
As soon as it comes out anyway... which should be Q1 or Q2 2008... before Warhammer anyway

-160GB Western Digital Hard Drive

-2GB DDR2 Corsair, 667mhz

[Aerfalle]

So if I get the SLI I will be able to put an extra card in, some time in the future? As long as the two cards are exactly the same? Also, I'm not gonna build it myself, it's from a store that allows for some customizations. I don't think I could a build one myself hehe.

Yes, SLI is no different a normal mobo if you only have one card then the first slot will run in 16PCI express and you can at any time add another identical card and they will run in 2*8PCI express not that bandwidth matters :P

Its really not extremly difficult to build your own PC, the trickiest part is to mount the CPU on the motherboard beacuse you dont wanna break any pins :P If you know someone who can put together a computer you could save an extra 120-150 $ or more if u are gonna buy from something like Dell. Just make sure everything is compatible!!

[Aerfalle]

-S3 Chrome 460 512MB DDR3 (X1 Digital Dvi) S3 inc. (PCI-E)
As soon as it comes out anyway... which should be Q1 or Q2 2008... before Warhammer anyway


What is that? I have never seen anything from S3 except for integrated graphics which needless to say sucks pretty bad.

How can you decide on not using Nvidia/ATI have you got any charts? and what price range would it be in? I wouldn't think that anyone could even come close to Nvidia or ATI for top performance gaming. And buying from a smaller company usually means more trouble with drivers and updates etc. Sounds like a very bad idea to me.

If anyone is interested about which nvidia /ati card is better I'd suggest having a look at
http://www.tomshardware.com/2008/01/03/the_best_gaming_graphics/page6.html

[banrak]

Its really not extremly difficult to build your own PC, the trickiest part is to mount the CPU on the motherboard beacuse you dont wanna break any pins :P If you know someone who can put together a computer you could save an extra 120-150 $ or more if u are gonna buy from something like Dell. Just make sure everything is compatible!!
It's more that I don't know much about cooling and powersuply especially. Also setting everything up after I've put it together, so that the parts work together the right way. I know where most things go though, and know to check for compatability and such. Is there any good sites that can help me out if I do decide to put a computer together myself?

[Mad Squig]

Power Supply Calculator Link:
http://www.vbutils.com/power.asp

This might help a bit.

[banrak]

Ok I'm playing around with the idea of making my own system, would be quite satisfying in the end I think :). This is what I'm considering atm:

Nvidia Geforce 8800 GT 512mb
Core 2 Duo E6600 2.4 GHz
Corsair XMS2 2 x 1 GB(DDR2)
ASUS P5N-E SLI motherboard
Seagate Barracuda 7200.10 320 GB
Samsung WriteMaster SH-S203B
Antec LifeStyle Sonata II-EC(with 450w PSU)

These components will go together right, or did I miss something important? All suggestions are appreciated for making this thing better! Also, 450watt will be enough right? Also, will I need more cooling than what the cabinet will supply(120mm fan in the back) + standard coolers on the hardware?

thanks

[sb220]

Banrak, refer to this thread...very similar fer the answers youre lookin for

http://www.warhammeralliance.com/forums/showthread.php?t=24355

[Loekii]

Does the average gamer really see much difference between specific RAM and HD types (not the amount but the types)?

Also, are there easy ways to clean up a HD, but not lose things like family photos and files? Ideally I was wondering how to get all the junk programs off the HD, and re-install the OS, but simply keep the files.

[PeterPan]

What is that? I have never seen anything from S3 except for integrated graphics which needless to say sucks pretty bad.

How can you decide on not using Nvidia/ATI have you got any charts? and what price range would it be in? I wouldn't think that anyone could even come close to Nvidia or ATI for top performance gaming. And buying from a smaller company usually means more trouble with drivers and updates etc. Sounds like a very bad idea to me.

If anyone is interested about which nvidia /ati card is better I'd suggest having a look at
http://www.tomshardware.com/2008/01/03/the_best_gaming_graphics/page6.htmlS3 has a long history of making gaming cards, they were making gaming cards before Nvidia and ATI even existed. From the Savage 2000 to their more recent Chrome S27, they have always just made integrated cards on the side. S3 is also not a small company, the S3 Trio was the best selling video card of all time. They have fell off the charts the past few years but ive remained a loyal customer... their current market share is 8% if im not mistaken.

I've played WoW, Guild Wars, Everequest 2, Black and White, LOTR Online, FFXI, Bloodranye 2 and Vanguard all on my Chrome S27 with no probelms what so ever. Which is why I have faith that their new card won't disappoint me.

Although I don't have anything on the Chrome 460(yet), here is a review on their last gaming card, the Chrome S27:

http://www.ampednews.com/features/195/

taken from review:
the Chrome series has a slight edge, outperforming its direct competitors while still maintaining a lower price point. Game compatibility and driver conflicts were never a factor in our time spent with the card, so anyone worried about straying from a household brand can breathe easy.

[PROTEST the hero]

Ok I'm playing around with the idea of making my own system, would be quite satisfying in the end I think :). This is what I'm considering atm:

Nvidia Geforce 8800 GT 512mb
Core 2 Duo E6600 2.4 GHz
Corsair XMS2 2 x 1 GB(DDR2)
ASUS P5N-E SLI motherboard
Seagate Barracuda 7200.10 320 GB
Samsung WriteMaster SH-S203B
Antec LifeStyle Sonata II-EC(with 450w PSU)

These components will go together right, or did I miss something important? All suggestions are appreciated for making this thing better! Also, 450watt will be enough right? Also, will I need more cooling than what the cabinet will supply(120mm fan in the back) + standard coolers on the hardware?

thanks

E6600 is a bad choice, get the 6750. It's $40 cheaper, faster, 1333MHz fsb, and overclocks with one simple setting change to 3.2GHz, 3.6GHz if you get third party cooling.

Also, the board is expensive if you don't plan on overclocking. In fact, any name brand board or RAM is not worth it, if you don't plan on overclocking.

The PSU would probably be useless with the GT, try to get a cheaper case without a PSU, then pick up a seperate one. Something from OCZ, PC Power & Cooling (expensive, but the best), Antec or Enermax. Cases with PSUs are generally junk, and won't cut it. Also, avoid anything that's $50 or less.

Card is great, try to get it as cheap as possible, as the 8800gt prices are apparently really high due to demand. I snagged mine a week after release for $270, which is now considered cheap, when they originally started at like $240. Avoid any of the cards that are "Overclock editions" or whatnot, it's wasted money, you can OC the card with nvidia's software by yourself, and save money. Try to get one from eVGA, they have a lifetime warrenty that includes anything you do to it. So if you OC it too high, run it for 5 months at that speed, and it dies out, they'll replace it 8)

[PROTEST the hero]

Does the average gamer really see much difference between specific RAM and HD types (not the amount but the types)?

Also, are there easy ways to clean up a HD, but not lose things like family photos and files? Ideally I was wondering how to get all the junk programs off the HD, and re-install the OS, but simply keep the files.

RAM types, or quantity ?

Quantity, yes. Any time you enter a town with 512megs of ram, I'm willing to be the game will be a slideshow.

Types, no. In fact, no one can tell. You could tell speeds by how well they OC, but definitely not brands.

HD types ? Possibly, a WD Raptor will perform a bit faster than a 7400rpm drive, but unless you pull out your stopwatch any time your HD loads something, you won't notice :P

[banrak]

E6600 is a bad choice, get the 6750. It's $40 cheaper, faster, 1333MHz fsb, and overclocks with one simple setting change to 3.2GHz, 3.6GHz if you get third party cooling.

Also, the board is expensive if you don't plan on overclocking. In fact, any name brand board or RAM is not worth it, if you don't plan on overclocking.

The PSU would probably be useless with the GT, try to get a cheaper case without a PSU, then pick up a seperate one. Something from OCZ, PC Power & Cooling (expensive, but the best), Antec or Enermax. Cases with PSUs are generally junk, and won't cut it. Also, avoid anything that's $50 or less.

Card is great, try to get it as cheap as possible, as the 8800gt prices are apparently really high due to demand. I snagged mine a week after release for $270, which is now considered cheap, when they originally started at like $240. Avoid any of the cards that are "Overclock editions" or whatnot, it's wasted money, you can OC the card with nvidia's software by yourself, and save money. Try to get one from eVGA, they have a lifetime warrenty that includes anything you do to it. So if you OC it too high, run it for 5 months at that speed, and it dies out, they'll replace it 8)
This is what I have in mind atm:

Nvidia Geforce 8800 GT 512mb
Core 2 Duo E6750 2.66 GHz
Corsair XMS2 2 x 1 GB(DDR2)
Gigabyte P35-DS3
Seagate Barracuda 7200.10 320 GB
Samsung WriteMaster SH-S203B
Antec Sonata Plus 550 EC

I know you said to get a seperate PSU and case, but I looked around and I heard a lot of good things about Antec Sonata Plus 550 EC. It has 550W, you still recommend getting seperate ones? I really can't go too much over the price that this setup will cost me. Is the Gigabyte P35-DS3 a better choice?

[Lymph]

well guys, i ordered the X1550 PCI since its the highest PCI card out there. I cant buy a new computer, neither a new mother board until my senior year of highschool (which will be in two years). I plan to get a high performance gaming laptop as a graduation present for college and gaming, but right now, im too young to invest so much money in something that will spoil my brain anyways lol. So my new graphics card is on the way, and its equivalent to a Geforce 6600, which means im one of the average guys on peter pan's unofficial spec thread! woot! and i can play call of duty on medium settings, as well as many other games i thought id never see my computer beable to play. I can finally open up this box of Battlefield 2 and run it!! after 2 years of sitting un opened in my room. lol. Im really excited even though its only PCI, its the best i can do and im proud of it. I can play tabula rasa!!! woooo!!!!!

[PeterPan]

Keep resolution at 1024x768, don't crank visuals to high and you should do ok.

I also recommend defragmenting and running crap cleaner before you install the games:

http://filehippo.com/download_ccleaner/

[Vidrak]

Good post. My only concern is with the RAM. In many recent MMO's (with real graphics, not WoW graphics) you are going to be struggling in many cases with only 1GB of RAM. From what WAR looks like so far, I would definitely recommend 2GB at least. You can blow through 1GB of RAM very easily in XP ... Vista, I have not really used yet, but I imagine it would be similar or worse.

[Vidrak]

This is what I have in mind atm:

Nvidia Geforce 8800 GT 512mb
Core 2 Duo E6750 2.66 GHz
Corsair XMS2 2 x 1 GB(DDR2)
Gigabyte P35-DS3
Seagate Barracuda 7200.10 320 GB
Samsung WriteMaster SH-S203B
Antec Sonata Plus 550 EC

I know you said to get a seperate PSU and case, but I looked around and I heard a lot of good things about Antec Sonata Plus 550 EC. It has 550W, you still recommend getting seperate ones? I really can't go too much over the price that this setup will cost me. Is the Gigabyte P35-DS3 a better choice?
All I gotta say is ...

Brand new PC -$1500
Low grade PSU included with case - $30
All your parts frying because you skimped on your PSU - Priceless

I would recommend not skimping on a PSU. 550W even seems low, especially if you want to upgrade at a later date (like with 2 Graphics cards using SLI). And going with a PSU that comes with a case would leave a very uneasy feeling in my stomach :P

I have seen it happen and almost had it happen to myself once. I won't spend under $100 on a PSU again. Just my 2 cents.

[PeterPan]

Good post. My only concern is with the RAM. In many recent MMO's (with real graphics, not WoW graphics) you are going to be struggling in many cases with only 1GB of RAM. From what WAR looks like so far, I would definitely recommend 2GB at least. You can blow through 1GB of RAM very easily in XP ... Vista, I have not really used yet, but I imagine it would be similar or worse.Vista needs 1GB of ram just for itself... 1GB of ram on Vista its like buying a small pizza for a family of fat people.

2GB is recommended on XP (1GB will get you by)

2GB almost required on Vista

[Lymph]

Card is arriving today! yay!!!

[Lymph]

i got my card. and its awesome..!!

[PeterPan]

It should do alot better than your existing one.

[PROTEST the hero]

Vista needs 1GB of ram just for itself... 1GB of ram on Vista its like buying a small pizza for a family of fat people.

2GB is recommended on XP (1GB will get you by)

2GB almost required on Vista

Vista doesn't use a gig. It'll use a bit short of 500, assuming you're using Ultimate with Aero running.

What vista WILL do, is cache all your unused ram via SuperFetch. This is RAM that is free if needed, but Vista will load frequently used programs (gathered by Vista over many sessions, unlike XPs cache method which 'unlearns' your program habits when you reboot) into that cache, so they're ready to go when you load them.

2Gb is useful because you end up with a 1.5gig cache and apps run super faster, but having a gig isn't the end of the world.

[Dannon]

Tried to skim through all the posts on this thread so I'm not asking the same question twice but I didn't see it, so is WAR going to be utilizing dx10 technology?

[Rik Riorik]

No it won't as far as I can recall.

[PeterPan]

Tried to skim through all the posts on this thread so I'm not asking the same question twice but I didn't see it, so is WAR going to be utilizing dx10 technology?I think their sticking to DX9, its possible they could add in DX10 extras down the road though... like when it actually has a good user base.

[BigEvil]

First post....

Excellent post PeterPan. Been wondering on this for a while.....

One thing for gamers to keep in mind, you dont have to drop your whole savings to keep up with new games. Yes, its very nice when you can drop 2-3 grand at the drop of a pin to max out your graphics, but family folks, students, and many others don't have that capability.

My machine is almost 5 1/2 years old, and still runs like a dream with an upgrade from time to time.

Now-
Asus P4P800 mother/ P4 2.8 Intel/ 2GB Giel Corsair Ram(duel 1GBx2)/ 120GB HD/ Diamond x1650 w/512MB ram AGP/ 10mb cable connect/ creative audigy plat 6.1 sound with creative speakers/ 650W power/ same case with even more air flow

I spent about $1800+ in 2002ish for this from IBuyPower.com, and she runs very, very well. I paid under 300 bucks total for all upgrades about a year between each.

I was glad to see my card in the "Tough" catagory. LOL.:D

[PeterPan]

You can extend the life of a PC a long way by progressively upgrading parts for it.

PC's with AGP slots got their lives extended even farther when Radeon decided to release AGP versions of the HD2600 series.

[Fallie]

So how will this game cope with a single core processor? I'm running

Athlon 64 3800+
3 gigs of DDR 1 RAM
Radeon 1950 PRO PCI-E


I feel like the processor is the bottleneck.

[RockpapperWaagh]

apparently my computer falls into the almost jesus cat. sweet

[noobe]

I'd put money on that my 128mb ati 9500 will be able to easily run this game on mainly medium and some high settings... The only reason I bring this up is because my ati 9500 should be under the tough =).. Thing is 5+ years yet it just keeps on going and going..


But thats probably the only thing I actually disagree with you on.

[Valinox Ruina]

Heh, my old comp which is a P4 2.6ghz, 1gig PC133, x700pro 256mb AGP runs WoW with no lag and LOTRO with very little lag. That computer is over 6 years old and only thing upgraded on it was the video card (went from 9800pro to x700pro after it died). I bet you it can run WAR with no problems on medium settings. Even though I recently bought a new comp.... Its still nice for having as a backup or just to look stuff up on.


To everyone wondering.... I play DAOC and any daoc player will tell you, if your computer can run in Lab RvR during peak hours without lagging... your set lol.

[PeterPan]

It doesn't take alot to run this game...1GB of ram, a 128mb DX9 card and 2ghz single core processor should be able to handle it on low.

[Vlasity]

If you're STILL running an AGP motherboard..and are too cheap to upgrade it like me and ya want a decent video card that will still haul another 2-3 years life out of that computer..the one I have is pretty high end(considering its...AGP..lol) Nvidia GeForce 7950 GT(512 mb card)..I think they make a PCI-E version of the card too..It lets me run EQ2 on almost max spec..so I assume it would have absolutely no problems with this game. It's the best AGP you can possibly find these days I think. They are rather quickly going out the window, but hey, it works for now! :p

[Groda]

Hello. I think my comp should be able to run this game on at least medium settings. But I would like others opinion on that..

AMD athlon 64 x2 3800+

2 gb of ram

Nvidia Geforce 6600 252 mb

[Loekii]

First post....

Excellent post PeterPan. Been wondering on this for a while.....

One thing for gamers to keep in mind, you dont have to drop your whole savings to keep up with new games. Yes, its very nice when you can drop 2-3 grand at the drop of a pin to max out your graphics, but family folks, students, and many others don't have that capability.

My machine is almost 5 1/2 years old, and still runs like a dream with an upgrade from time to time.

Now-
Asus P4P800 mother/ P4 2.8 Intel/ 2GB Giel Corsair Ram(duel 1GBx2)/ 120GB HD/ Diamond x1650 w/512MB ram AGP/ 10mb cable connect/ creative audigy plat 6.1 sound with creative speakers/ 650W power/ same case with even more air flow

I spent about $1800+ in 2002ish for this from IBuyPower.com, and she runs very, very well. I paid under 300 bucks total for all upgrades about a year between each.

I was glad to see my card in the "Tough" catagory. LOL.:D

Do sound cards really make a noticable difference in the experience?

[Annysia]

Do sound cards really make a noticable difference in the experience?

With most newer motherboards - no

Older ones - yes

Also I should fall somewhere just above heroic with my 7900gtx's in SLi hehe.

[Rabbuf]

1.6 maybe suitable, but in larger fights or in capital cities you will most defiantly get some choppiness in gameplay(if it even runs the game) since your processor wont be able to keepup with what the game is trying to do.

try to find out what sort of motherboard(mainboard) you have then find a new processor that will slot into it. its likely you will be able to slot upto 3g in it.

This is false.

My Laptop has a 1.5 ghz Pentium 4 Duo Core 2 Processor. 2g of ram, and a NVIDIA 8600M GT video card and I run WoW at the highest settings with 60+ FPS in full on battles.

I'm positive that person will be able to run WAR fine considering the graphics really aren't that much better from the screen shots. and considering he has a top-notch video card he should face little to 0 problems at all.

[medevac]

This is false.

My Laptop has a 1.5 ghz Pentium 4 Duo Core 2 Processor. 2g of ram, and a NVIDIA 8600M GT video card and I run WoW at the highest settings with 60+ FPS in full on battles.

I'm positive that person will be able to run WAR fine considering the graphics really aren't that much better from the screen shots. and considering he has a top-notch video card he should face little to 0 problems at all.
umm.. technically you have 2 cores running at 1.5ghz... not one..
lot of difference against a single core, so no its not false ;)

[PeterPan]

Im guessing 2.2ghz + for single core

1.5ghz + for dual core

[Annysia]

Im guessing 2.2ghz + for single core

1.5ghz + for dual core

Suppose I'll be just fine then with my 6.8ghz hoot (3.4x2 for you sillies)

[Bekkr]

To the OP: Great post/thread. It's very informative for a computer novice, and seems fairly accurate as far as everything I've seen/read about WHO:AoR, with the possible exception of:

Straight GHz alone is fast becoming a totally irrelevant and obsolete metric for system requirements. Sadly, the games industry (on the whole) seems to have not been able to come up with, or at least agree on, anything better yet, as retail boxes and game websites will attest to.

Vista's performance rating is a step in the right direction, but is too oversimplified IMO.

Anyway, my point is that maybe a new listing under CPUs in the original post for C2D and C2Q would be a good idea?

[suurge]

Hey - was just curious if my setup will be able to run warhammer.

geforce 7600 GS
2 gigs
pentium 4 1.8 ghz

I realize the processor is weak, but will it really screw me?

Thanks in advance

[medevac]

Suppose I'll be just fine then with my 6.8ghz hoot (3.4x2 for you sillies)
Actually you don't have anything running at 6.8Ghz, that totally contradicts processor function, you have two cores running at 3.4Ghz.
I have a quad core running at 3.6Ghz, but i don't say i have a 14.4Ghz processor. This comes from running a simple function on a computer and it will take up some of the 3.4Ghz, and if there are multiple processes, then you will use up the other cores. If you had a 6.8Ghz processor then you can run that single function super fast, which isn't true. You only use the other cores with programs that use up the other cores, or multiple functions are split up on the different cores.;)

[medevac]

Hey - was just curious if my setup will be able to run warhammer.

geforce 7600 GS
2 gigs
pentium 4 1.8 ghz

I realize the processor is weak, but will it really screw me?

Thanks in advance
I don't think the processor will screw you, unless you try running at high resolution and all, then you might bottleneck some. But with the decent card and ram, I think you should be fine, might not be able to amp up all the effects and resolution super high though.

[PeterPan]

It might run it, but I would upgrade it if I could... putting in a new cpu isnt that hard.

[suurge]

Ya, I have plenty of time to upgrade it, would 2.8 be enough?