ok first off, 8x isnt gonna make much difference b/t 4x-standard on oldy mobo's, -so thats not causing it. This is obviously user error thats causing horrible framerates- i had a 1.4ghz athlon w/ a 9700 non pro, with a sucky ass mobo, and it played all the games you mentioned, even HALO nicely. Apparently, your either due for a cleaning, try defragging, if that doesnt work then swipe it clean(format your drive), reinstall the latest of everything. you might need a soundcard too if you dont have one(no soudn card reduces framerates), ALSO, is your processor really a 2.1ghz, or a 2100+ althon xp, BIG difference!