Windows XP vs Windows 7

[Hallow'sEve]

Okay, so I have a Macbook Pro, and I've decided to install a windows os. Mainly because I want more variety of the programs I can run on my laptop. However, I don't want to, nor know, if Windows 7 is worth the $100+ dollars on the box. However, XP is still low (about the price of a video game, give or take).
But then, being the paranoid person I am, think that there are computer games, programs, etc that won't run on XP, only 7. I know this is true, but is it something I should be concerned about? Will I be unable to play games like Dragon Age, or program applications on XP?

I'm not very good with all the OS business, or computers in general. Someone please help.

 

[JeanLuc761]

So far as I know, Halo 2 is the only game to be released that isn't compatible with Windows XP. That said, I'm a massive fan of Windows 7 and as far as I'm concerned it's the XP-killer. I haven't had a single problem with stability, viruses or processing performance. If you can afford it, I vote you get 7

 

[chantzzzzz]

I would very much recommend Windows 7. Get Professional, if possible, since if you're really concerned about it, you can run a virtual XP machine inside of 7. It's a bit laggy but it's functional. Windows 7 is just a really polished OS that shows that Microsoft is at least (a bit) sorry and wants to make up for Vista I have actually had more success running older games under 7 than under XP, for some strange reason. Plus, while it won't happen right away, widespread support for XP will eventually diminish, so it's a good idea to stay on top of the technology curve

 

[Dys]

So far as I know, Halo 2 is the only game to be released that isn't compatible with Windows XP. That said, I'm a massive fan of Windows 7 and as far as I'm concerned it's the XP-killer. I haven't had a single problem with stability, viruses or processing performance. If you can afford it, I vote you get 7

Shattered horizon also springs to mind.

Get 7, windows XP is shit and not worth at all buying (and never was). If you can't afford 7, get windows 2000, it's a cheaper, faster and more stable version of XP.