Competitive action in the discrete graphics card sector is on the rise, and with its Arc GPU lineup, Intel is making bold strides. Following a successful launch of the Alchemist series, Intel is advancing towards its next generation, nicknamed “Battlemage,” and it’s exciting. So, if you’re thinking about an upgrade or are interested in the new developments in the GPU world, let’s review what’s known Intel’s upcoming graphics cards.
Battlemage: The Next Chapter
Intel has been consistently releasing its Arc B-Series graphics cards, particularly the Intel Arc B580 and B570, which officially became available in December 2024. These GPUs are constructed on Intel’s newest Xe2 architecture, aimed at providing enhanced efficiency and superior performance.
Key Features and What They Mean for You:
XeSS 2 (Xe Super Sampling) is Intel’s answer to NVIDIA’s DLSS and AMD’s FSR. This latest version brings together three impressive technologies
XeSS Super Resolution: The original AI-driven upscaling tech that boosts performance in over 150 games.
XeSS Frame Generation: A cutting-edge AI feature that generates frames using optical flow and motion vector reprojection, leading to much smoother gameplay. It can reportedly ramp up FPS by as much as 3.9 times in demanding AAA titles.
Xe Low Latency: This feature collaborates with the game engine to ensure quicker responses to your inputs, which is essential for competitive gaming.
Second-Generation Ray Tracing Engines: Get ready for more lifelike lighting, shadows, and reflections, adding a whole new level of immersion to supported games.
XMX AI Engines: These specialized AI engines accelerate various tasks, including the XeSS technologies, and are crafted to enhance performance in AI-focused applications.
Modern Gaming Features: The B-series cards are fully equipped to support DirectX 12 Ultimate, featuring variable rate shading and mesh shading, ensuring compatibility with the latest gaming advancements.
Focus on Value: Intel’s approach with the B-series seems to prioritize performance per dollar. They aim to provide an attractive option for gamers seeking a fantastic 1440p experience without breaking the bank. For instance, the Intel Arc B580 Limited Edition launched at a starting price of around $249.
Beyond the B-Series: What Else is Brewing?
While the B580 and B570 are currently the main focus, Intel has hinted at more powerful Battlemage options. Recent reports from Computex 2025 suggest Intel is getting ready to unveil a stronger Battlemage GPU, possibly a “B770” or a 24GB version of the B580. This shows Intel’s aim to grow its presence in various performance segments.
Intel is also promoting its Arc Pro series for workstations and AI tasks. This reflects a wider approach for its GPU technology beyond just gaming.
Performance Outlook
Early benchmarks for the Arc B580 and B570 suggest they are competitive, particularly in the mid-range segment, aiming to rival cards like NVIDIA’s RTX 4060 Ti. While specific performance figures will vary by game and system configuration, the advancements in Xe2 architecture and XeSS 2 are promising for delivering a smoother and more visually enhanced gaming experience.
The Road Ahead
Intel’s journey in the discrete GPU market is exciting. With the release of the B-series and hints of even more powerful Battlemage GPUs on the way, Intel is showing a strong commitment to being a serious player. As drivers improve and more people adopt XeSS, Intel’s Arc GPUs could become a more appealing choice for gamers and creators.
