Nvidia 3D Vision Vs. AMD HD3D: 18 Games, Evaluated

Features
By Don Woligroski
published

It’s about time that someone performed a meaningful comparison of 3D-enabled games using Nvidia’s 3D Vision and AMD’s HD3D. We put 18 different titles under the microscope to determine which technology gives you the most playability, most often.

Crysis 2

AMD HD3D and the TriDef Ignition Driver:

Not Recommended

The TriDef Virtual 3D mode works well, but note that the HUD is distorted by the depth buffer

This game displays significant lighting anomalies that make it unplayable in the TriDef driver’s normal mode. In Virtual 3D, however, it looks quite good.

There are two problems with this mode, however: the depth buffer affects the HUD, and looking down a scope or open sights results in significant blurring on the target area. This is a real detriment when you’re trying to aim to effectively take down targets from distance. This problem can’t be ignored, despite an otherwise-good 3D result.

Nvidia 3D Vision:

Excellent 3D result

Crysis 2 delivers an absolutely unimpeachable 3D experience with 3D Vision

Crysis 2 with 3D Vision is the poster child for stereoscopic gaming. The title looks stunning and, as far as we can tell, it works perfectly. The 3D effect adds a lot to a game that already boasts some of the best PC-based graphics available. Some enthusiasts have complained that this game's method of stereoscopic rendering isn't 'true' 3D as it's created using the depth buffer, a method similar to the TriDef Virtual 3D mode. Regardless, it looks fantastic to our eyes.

Don Woligroski
112 Comments Comment from the forums
  • renick
    nvidia 3d vision is best in all............
    Reply
  • Kamab
    Except for the ones where it's not recommended. Good thing I have one on this rig! Now I just got to shell out some cash for some 3D Tech.
    Reply
  • the_krasno
    3D is over hyped in my opinion, it will be some more time before games can correctly exploit it.
    Reply
  • falchard
    Everytime nVidia pushes out a proprietary format they shoot themselves in the foot. They just can't make it marketable with such a low market share. You need something like Microsofts 90% market share to think about making a closed standard.
    Anyone notice the bevel on the Samsung model. That beautiful for multi-monitor.
    Reply
  • Scanlia
    Great comprehensive review! Loved it.
    Reply
  • alyoshka
    Nice one, and really long awaited.
    Reply
  • i tried Tridef in EVE online, absolutely stunning. :)
    Reply
  • SteelCity1981
    During preliminary testing, we noticed that a decent Phenom II X4 had some trouble providing smooth frame rates, and mid-level graphics cards were cut down to their knees

    Time for Bulldozer!!!
    Reply
  • assassin123
    i loved it great review keep it up
    Reply
  • RazberyBandit
    Would it kill Tom's to use high-resolution pop-up pics? It's nearly impossible to discern any differences in detail or artifacts when comparing such low-resolution images. C'mon...1024 x 317? Seriously?
    Reply