- last post: 01.01.0001 12:00 AM PDT
You'll need a new graphics card at the least. Graphics shouldn't affect lag so much, but remember, this isn't Halo 2 that we're talking about here. There will be the traditional lag associated with this game. Bungie had yet to implement the snazzy code on PC Halo that makes it 'look' like you don't have lag problems, this didn't come out until Halo 2 (it's a long explanation, don't go there).
You may just need an upgrade of your nic card. Or, if you are having problems with other online games but you have a cable or DSL connection, contact your provider. Don't tell them you're having problems playing online games. Don't have your XBOX connected when they come to inspect. Just tell them, "My downloads and uploads seem to be running a little slow, sometimes it works great but sometimes my connection really seems to go slow. I pay for HIGH SPEED internet." If they have a speed test website (like toast.com), try it and see how you do.
I believe that the computer will automatically detect what the graphics settings need to be to give you the best performance on your computer. These settings are something that you can change. I suggest that if you do play mulit-player, turn off some of the bells and whistles to get a more enjoyable game.
You also state that the game appears really dark. This problem can usually be traced to the monitor. Your monitor is probably an older CRT and is beyond it's half-life (the point at which a monitor is half as bright as it was new). You may be able to turn up the "gamma" setting on the monitor itself, or if your graphics card has the ability, turn it up that way. Remember however that cranking up the gamma is probably going to hasten the failure of the monitor. Start saving for an LCD, you'll love it.
[Edited on 2/28/2006]