ATi on the Revolution graphics chip
In the midst of this year's Consumer Electronics Show, the guys over at Revolution Report managed to corner ATi's Public Relations Manager and fired off a few questions regarding one of the major unknowns in the Revolution--the graphics. Not an awful lot is revealed in the interview, but it is made clear that the graphics solution (codenamed Hollywood) will not be based off any existing PC technology.
"It is designed the same as the Flipper was -- from the ground up for a specific console. Totally different sort of architecture from what you might find on the PC."
The interview also reflects Nintendo's current stance regarding how well the Revolution compares to the polygonal power of the Xbox 360 and the PS3...which is to say, a non-stance. ATi reiterates that the graphics capabilities are not a specific highlight and only serve the purpose of cementing the console's ability to be a fantastic provider of original games. The Hollywood chip most likely won't be in the same league as the one found in the Xbox 360 (both are designed by ATi), but it would be a mistake to assume that Revolution games will be completely ignoring visuals in favor of gameplay.
On a seperate note, isn't the choice of Hollywood as the name of the Revolution's graphics chip interesting? The real Hollywood is known for its constant flow of sequels, remakes, tired content and general lack of originality. "Yup. Irony can be pretty ironic sometimes."
