ZE+warterfall=fail

[thecat]

So I was playing a map called ze prototype and ran into this giant lag spike when I saw this waterfall, the spike was so bad that I had to look down to even move at a resealable speed, after the waterfall was gone the lag spike disappeared.
My computer meets the optimal requirements for the game but this still happens every time I see a fucking waterfall.
My internet connection is just fine and also meets the requirements for the game.
This same thing happens on other maps, like ze ice cap.
I would like to know why this happens and if anyone else is having the problem, or if it is because I have a 4 year old computer.
I would also like to know how to fix it.

[Carmichal]

this might be server lag if there were a lot of people on. Also post your pc specs. CPU, GPU, RAM also how much do you get up and down with you isp.

[thecat]

Processor: AMD Athlon(tm) X2 Dual-Core QL-65 2.10
RAM: 3.00 GB(2.75 GB usable)
32 bit Operating System
Old but works great for CC:S.

[Carmichal]

gpu? or integrated?

[thecat]

It's an ATI Radeon 3100 Graphics.

[phil.™]

Your graphics card/computer can't handle waterfalls, or any other fast moving objects without having horrible FPS. My work computer is same, so I always look down when going through a waterfall.

[thecat]

Thanks, what does not make any sense is that I meet the requirements for the game but I still get lag spikes from stuff in the source engine.

[acolyte_to_jippity]

Thanks, what does not make any sense is that I meet the requirements for the game but I still get lag spikes from stuff in the source engine.

css has come a long way since when those specs were first written up. people have been able to do some pretty impressive things with the engine, that are far more demanding than just the vanillia shit.

[Nemesis]

Your choices are to either stop being poor or stop bitching about it. I suggest you choose the always present option and kill yourself.

[StarsMine]

Yea its the GPU.
You can get a 7670 or something for not to much (though a bit much for 13 years old) and should help alot.