iZ3D shows-off 3D LCD lineup, gives ATI gamers a deal

iz3D, makers of 3D-capable LCDs, is showing off a few prototypes of its technology on the CES show floor. This news is actually from the end of December, so we're playing a bit of catch-up, but as you'll find out throughout the show, stereoscopic PC gaming may finally gain some traction this year.

Specifically to iZ3D, according to a news release, it will have three prototypes on display. From the release (PDF):

"New iZ3D Immersion Series that gives users an incredible total 3D effect. It is a Triple iZ3D monitor setup with a flight or racing game simulator that really puts players in the experience!

26" iZ3D Prototype - Thought the 22-inch widescreen was awesome? Wait until you see the 26-inch version!

22" Widescreen Console Game Compatible Prototype - Now play many popular Xbox or PS3 games in 3D on the new iZ3D 22-inch game compatible monitor.

iZ3D's special 3D LCD's don't appear that different from normal PC displays.

(Credit: iZ3D)

Prior to this news, iZ3D also cast its lot with AMD, by way of a free $50 credit for a stereoscopic driver designed to pair ATI Radeon 3D cards and iZ3D's specially designed LCD's. To get the 3D effect, you need to purchase one of iZ3D's LCDs ($399 for the standard 22-inch model), which also includes three pairs of special polarized glasses. The glasses look relatively nondorky (you can see for yourself here), and by wearing them while playing a game or watching a 3D-enabled movie, you get the full 3D, pop-out-of-your-screen effect.

AMD and iZ3D may not be the only vendors with a new 3D PC solution in mind, and having seen the affect in action, at least briefly, we can report that it is indeed impressive, and better than the either the old red-and-blue lens-style 3D, or other, more recent efforts. Aside from the required purchase of a new, specialized LCD (that still works fine with standard 2D images), the major obstacle is whether gamers will be willing to don a pair of special glasses to play a game. But if you'll wear a clunky headset, are special glasses that much of a leap?