about 3d and transparent desktop?

[loody]

Dear all:
I use gnome as my windows manager.
But almost 2 years ago, I saw my friend show me some magic 3d and
transparent desktop on linux system.
We can switch desktop like a cubic and it is more fascinated than visa.

I have no idea whether the window manager is kde or gnome.
If I want to have the same thing happen on my ubuntu, what package I
should apt-get?
Does my HWs need to upgrate?
appreciate your help,
miloody