A vertex cache within a graphics processor is configured to operate as a conventional round-robin streaming cache when per-vertex state changes are not used and is configured to operate as a random access storage buffer when per-vertex state changes are used. Batches of vertices that define primitives and state changes are output to parallel processing units for processing according to vertex shader program. In addition to allowing per-vertex state changes, the vertex cache is configured to store vertices for primitive topologies that use anchor points, such as triangle strips, line loops, and polygons.