*comment to make myself feel better, even though I have no idea what Bethesda's configuration management and development processes are.*
Seriously, I can't believe the audacity of half these comments. Seems like the higher a site is ranked on google, the more Apes you get online jamming their premature thoughts into any text field with a submit button.
Nobody cares what you think the specs are on a video card. The manufacturers have this information on their site.
If Bethesda recommends purchasing a GTX 260 (or higher) before loading up the game, its a fair bet that someone who has spent more time in calculus class than you have trolling the internet, worked a decent ammount of hours testing refresh rates, polygon counts, draw distances, fps, culling and got knows what else. Additionally they are not releasing the recommended specs for "Ultra"... This means if your more into building a PC and posting your FPS count, you can probably go with SLI and tweak the texture settings and lighting effects to create a more realistic effect.
This also means if you actually like playing video games more than re-installing, you can also play with an XBox, PS3 or earlier PC that isnt quite up to snuff.
I am thrilled about this game, and after reading multiple beta reviews, interviews and watching videos about the development process... i am more excited then ever...as Elder Scrolls is my favorite series.
Bottom line,
The specs are listed above. Build a ballin' PC so you can run @ Ultra High resolution and be awed at the terrain... or pickup a used xbox for $150 bucks and enjoy the game for its playability instead of gorgeousness... either way you will win.