harmattan

Poll should be updated to P370EM vs. m18x R2. I've played with and owned both and still think the P370EM wins by a smidge. Build quality and design is still better on the m18x, but the better screen options (I'm starting to hate the mirror that is the screen on my m18x), better GTX 680m sku, and lower price win on the P370EM.

Bottom line, it's addictiv and if you liked the first, you'll like the second. Been playing it for a couple days and, when I'm not, I can't wait to get back to level up just once more or get that next gun. It's basically the same thing as the first game with new (although very similar) environments and a wider range of guns and mods. I'm playing as a commando. My only complaint is I tend to not make use of my turret enough and just pick badies off from a distance, but that's my fault. I was able to buy a code from GMG for $25. I probably wouldn't have spent $60 for this, just not worth it, especially knowing there will be a massive mark down most places in a couple months. Also, the other annoyance in the game is you get the distinct feeling in some spots the devs have primed the game to nickel and dime you with as many mods and dlcs as possible.

Played AoC on and off from release day to a couple months ago (prior to them going free). IMO, it was/is the best alternative to WOW (I don't really consider GW2 an MMO, at least not of the same type as AoC). The graphics still hold up very well, the classes are balanced (although there's been some trouble in the past here) and the theme and atmosphere are miles away than the panty-waisted manga-fied cheese-fest in most other MMOs. I'd say, yes, definitely give it a go. Moreover, report back on your experiece as I'm interested in hearing how the enviro is now that it's a free model.

I'd do it. I've owned several m17x r2s and several x7200s. For your needs, and particularly since you don't move the laptop, the x7200 with SLI'ed 485ms is going to give you around 75% more GPU power than dual 5870s. I'm actually really surprised the guy is willing to do a 1:1 trade for your m17. The drawback is obviously the loss of the RGB screen, but the x7200 screen is not that bad.

I assume the 680m can also support at least three monitors....? My ideal set up would be to have my laptop screen as primary and then dual 18.4" screens on the side, ideally with the same panel as the m18x. I don't think 18.4" screens are available, however...