What is your price range, power supply, and motherboard?  FarCry2 requirements.

3DMark Vantage and Expreview say, that the 8800gt out performs a 9600gt by about 13%.  While the 8800gt costs about 20% more ($180 vs $150) then a 9600gt.  At about $160 is the Radeon HD 3870 which depending on the game will either beat or lose to a 9600gt.  Also note that the 9600gt SLI out performs a more expensive HD3870X2.  I have seen the Palit 9600gt as low at $112 after rebate on newegg.

Best Gaming Graphics Cards for the Money: April 08
Best cards for the money May 08 has yet to be published but look for it here