Radeon 9800 XT coupled with Half-Life 2: Smart move for ATI?

[spitcodfry]

I read that they spent a crapload on the ATI/NVIDIA bid for the exclusive Half-Life 2 bundle. No one can doubt they're the current king right now for video cards, but was this a smart move for them financially? Are the majority of consumers who are in the market for a new video card willing to fork over that much money for the latest and greatest? ATI isn't exactly hurting in the wallet, but I do think this is risky for them nontheless. We have yet to see if the XT is a major upgrade from the 9800 Pro. What do you think about this marketing plan?

I, for one, think that ATI, for now, has one a major victory with this play. Not only are their cards the best currently for DX9 compatibility, but this series of card works amazingly with the game they're bundling it with, as stated by the man himself, Gabe Newell.

Even if NVIDIA manages to secure ut2k4 with their next foray into the industry, it won't hold a candle to what Half-Life 2 will do for ATI's sales.

 

[janonol]

ATI has got a big boost with HL2. defenitaly.

But it also leaves a question. how long after HL2 release before the board becomes available?

I'm buying HL2 the first day it comes out. but i want a vido card that can give me the best experience. i was going to buy a 9800 pro. but now i think should i wait for the 9800XT?

they (ATI) should post more info soon if they want to maximise sales. or the people who they are selling to will already have bought a 9800 for HL2 and not be so keen to fork out more money to play the same game with a slighly better video card.