DRV Hell?
Admit it, CPU and memory intensive application is very 2000-ish. We're at the edge of GPU revolution. GPU performance (and price) increased steadily. 3D is not just for gaming anymore. Microsoft emphasizes these qualities into Windows Vista and Windows Presentation Foundation.
Unfortunately, the key performance indicator for these qualities have not yet met. Drivers for nVIDIA and ATi GPUs for Windows Vista lacks stability. nVIDIA latest driver release for Windows Vista RTM is useless(http://forums.nvidia.com/index.php?showtopic=24461), even basic multimedia (like audio) is problematic. In my case, audio keeps hanging from time to time, requiring manual reset of the driver.
Ironically, almost all of these problematic drivers are WHQL-certified. Sigh.
Bottom line, Microsoft and partners have until the end of month to resolve these driver problems, or they'll face a harder competition from other OSes (including Windows XP). Windows is well-known for broad driver compatibility, and it should stay like that.
Imagine those Apple dudes who needs to do a compatibility check for mouse they're going to buy? While on Windows, it's all plug-and-play, baby! Which option do you prefer?