System Builder Marathon, Sept. 2011: System Value Compared

Benchmark Results: Metro 2033

Priced four times higher than the cheapest build and two times higher than the mid-cost enthusiast system, it’s nice to see the $2000 machine stretch its legs a little in Metro 2033. While the $500 system passes our High Quality test at 1920x1080, the $2000 machine is required for smooth game play using our most extreme settings settings at the same resolution.

Unfortunately, nothing passes those same extreme settings at 2560x1600. Nvidia hardware appears specifically vulnerable to this setting, as it falls behind the lower-cost Radeon HD 6970 CrossFire configuration from our June $2000 build.