Strange graphics behavior when gaming

[Caustic Fox]

I apologize if this is in the improper forum...

Lately, I have been noticing a strange occurrence when I am gaming on my computer. This happens when I start a game. The games run normal for about a minute. Then this happens:

-Video freezes in place, also the controls lock-up
-Sound is normal
-About 3-4 seconds later, the monitor cuts to black for about 1 second, then returns to normal.
-Game continues normally until the cycle repeats again after 3-5 minuets later.

What causes this? Could possibly my graphics card be on its last legs? I have no idea.

My computer Specs:

MSI 785GT-E63 ATX motherboard
AMD Phenom II 960T Zosma unlocked and overclocked to 3.6GHz X6
BFG GTX 260 overclocked
4.5GB DDR2 RAM
Windows 7

 

[willard]

Undo your overclock, you're pushing the card too hard.

 

[randomkid]

What causes this? Could possibly my graphics card be on its last legs? I have no idea.

My computer Specs:

MSI 785GT-E63 ATX motherboard
AMD Phenom II 960T Zosma unlocked and overclocked to 3.6GHz X6
BFG GTX 260 overclocked
4.5GB DDR2 RAM
Windows 7

Those problems you mentioned are signs of overheating. It works normally again when it cools down but then fail again when it gets too hot.
Check if the GPU fan is spinning. If it does, monitor the GPU temperature & if it goes beyond 90degrees you probably need to re-apply the thermal paste.