Graphics Card Ranking List

[perky416]

Well, the time compression has almost nothing to do with the graphics card, that is pretty well completely processor-dependent.

I would say the absolute cut-off point for any version of SHIII would be around #174. With compromises of course. Better to start at around #120.

But remember that both RAM and especially processor speed are also important. Once you get into higher-end video cards, say above #70, the choice of card will make very little difference at all, but choice of processor will determine the real upper limit for your performance.

Thanks for that, iv just ordered a PNY Geforce GT240 1GB.
Im running a 3.2ghz Pentium D duel core with 6GB ram (even though windows only detect 3.5gb).
Do you think the specs are good enough to run SH3 with GWX nice and smooth both at maximum time compression and when attacking ships in port?

[CCIP]

Originally Posted by perky416

Thanks for that, iv just ordered a PNY Geforce GT240 1GB.
Im running a 3.2ghz Pentium D duel core with 6GB ram (even though windows only detect 3.5gb).
Do you think the specs are good enough to run SH3 with GWX nice and smooth both at maximum time compression and when attacking ships in port?

It should be okay! Attacking ships in port may be a tad bit slow, but that's mostly because of the game itself not dealing with ports terribly well rather than your PC. Overall that's about right for a good SHIII machine. I had few problems running it on a somewhat slower dual-core Athlon machine with a GeForce 8600GTS, and the FPS generally averaged about 50-60, dropping to 30 around large convoys and ports. That's more than you'll ever need for a game of SHIII's pace. You should see same or better results with your card/PC.

The version of windows you use limits the amount of RAM you can usefully have. If you're running XP or non-pro 32-bit version of Win7, you're limited to 4gb of usable RAM.