nVidia have decided to show suitors to the graphics throne, exactly who the boss is. For the first time, since 3DFX was around, nVidia seems worried. That much can be assumed from the extensive attempt to reach all market layers. Gone are the days when a major chip manufacturer could hold off the release of the cheaper models in order to target the hardcore gamers and their big bucks.
So the three GeForce4 boards will be: the GeForce4 Ti 4600 and 4400, the GeForce4 MX 460, 440 and 420, and the mobile GeForce4 440 Go and 420 Go. The MX's are already shipping in OEM systems, the mobile chips will be available within February and the Ti's will hit stores in about 60 days. Now if you where an ATI exec and saw that coming at you wouldn't you be running for cover?
nVidia are certainly pulling all the stops and have managed to secure support from all sectors of the industry. "Video games used to be a kind of step-child to film and live TV," said David DeMartini, Executive Producer for Golfing Simulations at Electronic Arts. "Today, by delivering high-resolution, high frame-rate, full scene antialiasing in a complete family of GPUs, nVidia has provided us with the tools to deliver breakthrough performance and image quality for the gaming industry. This helps Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2002 achieve a level of realism that rivals film and video and gives the player the sense they’re in the game."
More support is evident in the overwhelming numbers of PC makers which have included the GeForce4 to their line-up, including Apple, Compaq, Gateway, HP, MicronPC and Toshiba. Board manufacturers include: ASUSTeK, eVGA.com, Gainward, Leadtek, MSI, PNY and Visiontek.
