Players have great expectations concerning 64-bit games. Following the release of the 64-bit version of Windows XP, some 64-bit games were produced. Since then, however, there is silence. Or is there?
64-bit information technology has a promising future on the game market, too. It seems quite probable that the release of Vista will result in an increased tempo in this field, too, as the 64-bit version will appear simultaneously with the 32-bit one.
The computer game market is an important field, in itself as well as in its effects. At present, and probably for one or two years to come, it is difficult to convince a company manager to replace the existing information technologies with a 64-bit system. On the other hand, his son will probably succeed much more easily in replacing his home computer. All that is needed for this is that software producers make improvements in this field as well. At first sight, this does not seem to be a difficult task: the 64-bit source code must be run on the 64-bit software development kit, and the 64-bit game is available right away, provided that the given development kit has a 64-bit version, too. Needless to say, this is not at all that easy. Even if all requirements are met and the “development” of 64-bit games can indeed be achieved in this way, it is still not certain that it will be done. Consider the fact that the 64-bit game is in this case a new, different software which lives an independent life once released, it needs independent product support. According to the rationalistic approach, therefore, this solution may not pay off, given the present position of 64-bit systems. Business interest is above the several other considerations, and at present it may be worth exploiting the 32-bit market as fully as possible. Another important factor to consider is the position of 64-bit driver programs and other accessory software. From a certain perspective, the situation is very favourable in this field; from a slightly different perspective, however, it is just the opposite.
Following this brief introduction, please see the current list of genuine (native) 64-bit games running under 64-bit Windows XP:
64-bit game programs on the site of AMD64, comparison with the 32-bit versions, demos and screen videos, and system requirements:
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