Benchmarks

We played with the resolution settings to try and see the differences in framerate between the various detail levels, AA levels and resolutions.


Dropping detail levels drastically ups the frame rates. However, unless you're on a really low-end card, the performance is good enough not to have to do that. On our X700, we found 1280x1024 with 2xAA to provide the best compromise of image quality and framerate. However, you can see that the detail drop will allow low-end hardware to play this game - indeed, some extra detail settings only show up when you play on DX7 hardware or lower.

Conclusion

Clearly, the title uses some great tweaks and workarounds to deliver such stunning image quality at the performance level it does. Despite lacking DX9 features, cranking up the resolution and detail will make this game a cracking showcase for your high-end card. Not only is the game itself a complete blast to play, but the engine is a real achievement - especially considering the amount of data it must be sending back and forth across servers.