Yer the 9900 GTX is due, new ATI 4*** cards before then tho. As for the 9600 GT, its about the same price as a 8800 GT and in most cases performs about the same. But I think it has cut down steam processors which lets the 8800 GT push ahead in a few games. If its cheaper then go for it, but at the same price the 8800 GT is slightly better.