In order to evaluate CPU performance we tested the X6800 and E6700 against the AMD Athlon FX-62 – the current flagship AM2 platform processor. We also have included results for the Pentium Extreme Edition 965 (using the same 975XBX motherboard) to provide a full spectrum of useful comparative results. For the gaming tests we had to use an engineering sample AM2 Crossfire motherboard for our AMD scores, though this does not represent any lower performance and the results should be comparable to release products.
Quake 4 is an important title because its engine will be used in a number of forthcoming 3rd party titles. Even at 1600x1200 there is significant load on the CPU to show a difference of some 11% between the FX62 and the X6800.
Battlefield 2 is one of the most demanding titles out there, so gamers wanting the best possible experience will demand a fast CPU. With a 19% lead over the FX62 the Core 2 Duo should be in your next BF2 rig. Notice how harshly this game treats the poor Pentium EE which languishes at the bottom of the pack some 20fps behind the AM2 chip.
The efficiency of the Half Life Engine means a perfect playing experience on any of the test chips, but performance is still 13% in favour of the Core 2 Duo
Oblivion gets our vote as the best game released this year, but it sure requires a hefty PC. The Core 2 Duo is some 25% faster than the FX62 and 60% faster than the Netburst Pentium EE. Ouch!
Summary
AMD has held the crown in gaming performance ever since its Athlon 64 debuted. Core 2 Duo has finally snatched that lead back, and with some venom. Although an SLI or Crossfire setup will be required to see the sort of differences in our review, the CPU still has a major part to play in your enjoyment of modern PC games.
