AMD ofc they have some good platforms right now, i have made for my client hd media center capable computer for 198USD (582,83PLN) + 259USD (789PLN) for FULL HD Sharp 42' refurbished TV, intel dont have something like this :-(
spec:
Athelon II x2 240
Asrock A790GMH (onebord radeon 4200HD, 6.1 sound,hdmi,e-sata ,gigabyte ethernet)
2GB ddr2 667mhz oem
160GB hdd samsung sata 1.0
MniATX case 300W
Remote control/touch pad (like in laptops)
wirless keyboard
its good configuration for that money
tested games(720p):
quake 1-3 ok
hitman blood money playable up to 1200x800!!!
quake 4 (1024)
half life 1 ok
half life 2 (1024)
age of empires 3 (1200x800)
civilization 4 ok
sims 2 (1024?)
sims 3 not playable?
pure (1024)
pain killer ok
spore ok
prototype (hack 800z600, ugly)
WOW ok
NFS carbon/most wanted ok
Turok 3 ok
fallout 3 (1200x800 low/medium)
...