I would hate to put a 290 in a shuttle/HTPC. I can see that getting hot in there very quick. The 970 is a very cool card and the reference blower is great for exhausting heat out the back and I don't even think the ref 290/X does that properly and still exhausts heat into the case.
Ohhh and above all else, you mention he is like me and a huge fan of Batman, so don't make him miss out on effects, go nVidia
Batman Arkham Knight isn't that far away now either
Ohhh and above all else, you mention he is like me and a huge fan of Batman, so don't make him miss out on effects, go nVidia

Batman Arkham Knight isn't that far away now either
