Well first of all 3DFX use SS method so for old games like HL and what not that make use of Alpha textures then the 3DFX method was "better". However that was a long time ago, isnt like 3 years in Graphic Card time aceint history
yes this is True. 3dfx used RGSS and ATi uses RGMS.
You do have a very good point about alpha textures. However the edge AA on the 9700 is a lot better due to its Gamma Correction, and 6x sample pattern. Also, using 16xAF really minimizes the blurring affect that MSAA has. Although it does not entirely eradicate it.