I'm having this problem, too. (I also have an ATI graphics card.)

I would really appreciate an update on this issue because I am basically stuck in Hydlaa and can't really progress in the game. I can't visit the Magic Shop or Ojaveda because the game will crash when loading the appropriate map. The only place I can visit right now is the Arena.

Is there a patch in the making? Is there a work-around? How do other posters that have the same problem progress in the game?

Please Help!