If the previous versions of OpenGL were about using a "fixed-function" menu of options, OpenGL 2.0 was about giving programmers the kitchen and letting them write their own recipes. The Programmable Pipeline: GLSL Takes Center Stage
Shaders allowed real-time fluid simulation, fractal rendering, and post-process effects (bloom, depth of field) previously limited to pre-rendered CG. opengl 20
The ARB convened at the Siggraph conference in San Antonio. The air in the cramped hotel conference room smelled of stale coffee and desperation. The debate raged for two days. If the previous versions of OpenGL were about