Playground version: pcsx2 svn 679
Cpu options: EERec, VU recompilers, MTGS on
GFX: GSdx 0.1.14 SSEE3 or ZeroGS 97.1
Sound: Spu2ghz playground 1.9.0
CDVD: Gigahertz 0.7.0
Now most of the SPS is gone just some random flashing geometry and missing pieces. IE center of the sword in opening. Other then that just a bunch of graphics plugin bugs.
Hmmm is svn 679 newer than 0.9.6?
Because in 0.9.6 I still get the issue you originally reported, where it looks like the screenshot right after doing "new game".