Even though I have a really good computer and graphics card after about 2 minutes of play the game locks up. About a minute after that it unlocks, but the graphics is appualing, with large areas missing, and pixelated or in the wrong place, so much so the game is not in a very playable state. I have tried setting the graphics settings low, which is vile to play... but still get the same problem.. does anyone have any ideas?

Thanks in advance.
Matt.

Post your dxdiag

http://forums.rct3x.net/showthread.php?tid=1680

matt_j I would usually associate artifacts like that with overheating, usually if the graphics card's memory or core is speeded up some what (Overclocking, not that I am saying yours is, cards at stock speeds can overheat too in closed spaces). The fact that you was also able to catch a screenshot further adds more weight to it, as overheated cards will not cause the operating system to freeze with it.

If you have SLI or Crossfire, check that thew 2 cards are not squeezed right next to each other so they almost touch. Also look to see if the fan's on the cards themselve's are working, as well as your PC's rear exhaust fan. Failure of either of these will not show up in windows, and will cause a huge build up of heat.

Also look at the airflow round the case in general, one card or 2, make sure that nothing can touch them or obstruct the airflow from the front of your PC to the rear. Another tip is to also run your PC with the side pannel off, and see if the same problem happens. If not, it's definalty overheating, and you should fix it promptly as it can damage parts.

Would be interesting to see your system spec to be sure, as it could easily be something else. Does it happen in any other games for example? And is there a specific time delay after you start playing gams before it does it?

Mine used to do that.

Thanks for that, the thought did cross my mind, I never had problems before, so will er, have a go at clearing out the computer physically.... Will post if it has any effect.

Edit:

Got a new graphics card, with better cooling, and it worked! Thanks.