DirectX 8 versus DirectX 9 graphics

[kiddunc]

Before I plunge into buying a new video card, is there a difference in the quality of the graphics between a DirectX 8 card and a DirectX 9 card for BattleFront?

 

Currently running a Radeon 9000 Pro All in Wonder...thinking about 9600 XT or 9600 All in Wonder

 

I know the newer cards will help frame rates(its pretty playable now as it is...just interested in the eye candy)

 

Thanks

[Alegis]

I think a radeon 9800 pro is already using the maximum of battlefront. Graphics aren't that high and fps is capped in MP to 20.

[kiddunc]

Thanks but how about quality...for example in Half Life 2, there are different techniques used to draw the objects (bump-mapping, etc) depending on the type of card...is the quality that much better with a DX 9 card?

[kiddunc]

Upgraded to a BBA 9600 XT AIW and boy everything looks awesome now

 

Running 1280x1024 with 2x AA(anything more and its unplayable)

 

The coolest part(s) are

 

1. Water reflections look so real - its almost breathtaking

 

2. Shadows

 

3. Better lighting effects(such as laser blasts and the rays from the sun beaming down)