2D Isometric Graphics vs 3D Graphics

You've made up your mind haven't you. 3D is clearly better than 2D, right?.
Nah. I don't think so.

Although 3D graphics, especially in the age where the likes of the Xbox 360 and the fabled PS3 is out, would be the immediate preference for the overwhelming majority of people. I, however, still believe that to a certain extent, 2D isometric graphics, when used correctly and mastered to perfection, actually looks better than some 3D graphic titles. Even the ones with the latest graphical effects and technology.

Its all in the detail.

I'm going to use two games, Final Fantasy IX and Planescape: Torment. Both use 2D isometric graphics. If you've played both or one of these games, remember how they've looked. If you have no idea how they look like because you have no idea what i'm on about or you've never played either of the two games, then click here and here. In these two games, notice the level of detail that the isometric 2d backgrounds consist of. Notice the lighting in some areas of FFIX. The Lighting used, the little touches on each background on each city to each marsh. You've probably never noticed it, and until a certain point neither did i until quite recently. Its the artwork of the graphics, and the fact that the graphic designers who work at game companies know how to use the medium for their game. A 3d game, with poorly designed artwork, is no comparison to a 2d game with carefully, and gorgeously mastered backdrops and backgrounds, with the little touches placed here and there. Likewise, a 3d game with brilliant artwork, is also more effective than a 3d game that uses the latest pixel shader effects and yet has not used those features to their full potential. WoW is a good example of how the best looking game isn't always the one with the best effects.

Perhaps i'm simply an admirer of skill and talent, but thats something i'm sure that you guys here wouldn't have thought about.

Till Later,
Fury52.