Background: When it comes to 3D video performance, neither me or my
cousin know how powerful (or not) our systems are.  We'd like to start
playing either Railroad Tycoon II or Warcraft 3 online, but need to
generally get a numerical (non-subjective) idea how well those (and
other) games will run BEFORE we plunk down the coinage.


Question: What free (or really cheap) software can give us some 3d
performance benchmarks so that we 1) can compare our two systems and
2) have an idea of playability BEFORE we purchase game titles.

Hello,

Here is the best link for what you seek:

http://www.madonion.com/

Download 3Dmark2001 and you will be given what is considered an
industry standard for your current system.

I sure wish google would let me be a paid advisor, this is my second
freebie in two days...

Best regards,

Steve

Excellent.  Thanks for the quick response.

I've put in a good word for you.