‘We probably sold millions of boards because of that game, and it was magnificent’: 3dfx cofounder gives Quake a ‘great deal of credit for our overall success’

The Legacy of 3dfx and the Voodoo Graphics Card

For enthusiasts of retro PC gaming hardware, the name 3dfx resonates with nostalgia and innovation. At the heart of its legacy lies the iconic 3dfx Voodoo graphics card, a product that not only transformed the gaming landscape but also played a pivotal role in the evolution of graphics technology. Recently, Ross Smith, one of the founders of 3dfx, shared insights during a conversation with Club386, marking the 30th anniversary of the original Voodoo card. He attributed much of its success to what he termed the ‘Quake effect.’

The relationship between 3dfx and the groundbreaking first-person shooter, Quake, was significant. As the game gained popularity, it showcased the capabilities of the Voodoo card, which was designed specifically for 3D acceleration. This unique approach allowed the Voodoo to function as a co-processor alongside a 2D card, freeing up the CPU to manage other tasks simultaneously. Smith reflected on this innovation, stating, “We did something revolutionary there.”

However, the journey of 3dfx was not without its challenges. The company famously found itself embroiled in legal disputes with Nvidia over patent infringements during the late ’90s and early 2000s. Following its bankruptcy in the early 2000s, Nvidia acquired many of 3dfx’s assets, which inadvertently laid the groundwork for Nvidia’s subsequent successes in the graphics market.

3dfx’s approach to design was distinctive. Unlike many of its contemporaries, the Voodoo cards did not include a VGA output. Smith explained that this decision stemmed from a combination of limited design experience and a strategic focus on profitability and compatibility. “Being compatible with a million apps is really hard—being compatible with 200 games is much easier,” he noted, highlighting the company’s targeted strategy in a rapidly evolving industry.

The legacy of 3dfx and its Voodoo graphics card continues to influence modern gaming hardware, reminding us of the innovative spirit that drives the tech industry forward.