Are you ready for the next generation of gaming PCs? AMD unveiled on Monday a new program designed to enhance the high-definition gaming experience by combining the most suitable multi-core processors, exceptional HD digital media, and next-generation graphics processing power to create optimal gaming systems and “out of the box” entertainment experiences for consumers.

In other words, AMD wants to help consumers identify the PCs capable of delivering the high-definition gaming experience they need. According to a study by Jon Peddie Research, two thirds of the desktops and notebook PCs sold last year were unable to offer a great gaming experience. AMD wants to change that with the new AMD GAME! experience, which is meant to ensure that the computer system has been optimized for the gaming experience with the right graphics and processor components.

The initiative doesn’t aim of course at game enthusiasts, who know exactly what they want on their computer to turn the gaming experience into a pleasant one, or at casual gamers, which can stick to their Solitaire on almost any computer, but at the average gamers, who account for about 20 percent of the market and play games occasionally (that, of course, if they chose the right computer).

Big industry names such as Acer, Alienware, Logitech and Microsoft already swore their allegiance to the project. AMD promised to work with them in order to deliver personal computer configurations for all types of users.

AMD’s ultimate plan is to deliver a “console-like simplicity” for mainstream PCs, making it easier for consumers to identify the computers that respond to their needs. What this means is computers will have AMD GAME! and AMD GAME! Ultra stickers on them, indicating the minimum performance capabilities.

The two levels of specifications will be as follows: minimum specifications for AMD GAME! – AMD Athlon X2 5600+ processor, ATI Radeon HD 3650 graphics card, AMD 770 or NVIDIA nForce 500 chipset; minimum specifications for AMD GAME! Ultra – AMD Phenom X4 9650 processor, ATI Radeon HD 3870 graphics card, AMD 770 chipset.

 Retail availability is expected in the second half of 2008.