Yeah, I've got an Alienware M11x R2 (mobile i7, 1.8-2.2 GHz on turbo boost), and it sputters quite a bit on Wind Waker. I've not actually tried any other games, yet, and I've also not overclocked, which would help. But yeah, you want some good specs.
I should dig through my collection in retrospect, and try out another game to see if it works. Or... anyone know how well (or if) Xenoblade works? I'd actually like to give it a shot before I burn the money to import it. After all, I might not like it. As has been the case with other RPGs that come highly recommended, although I must admit this one looks great.
EDIT: Well, screw that. I just gave in and ordered the game. It's actually relatively cheap on thehut.com (or zavvi.com), exchange rate comes out to just under $50. Not bad at all, provided they don't mess up the order or my credit card. I intentionally used my low-limit card in case something goes terribly awry.