NVIDIA's disliked new game graphics tool is coming to older games

NVIDIA is adding DLSS 5, a graphics tool many gamers dislike, to RTX Remix, its free platform for modding older PC games. If you own an NVIDIA graphics card, you can try it on classic titles. Expect slower play, and some games may refuse to launch.

What changed

RTX Remix has been free since early 2024. It lets people add ray tracing (more realistic light) and AI-upscaled textures (sharper surfaces) to older games. DLSS 5 is being added to it on October 23. Hogwarts Legacy gets official DLSS 5 support on November 5.

Why people are upset

DLSS 5 uses AI to change how light falls on characters. Critics say it alters what the game's artists intended and works like an AI beauty filter. NVIDIA's early reveal footage drew mockery for overly polished faces. Recent screens suggest the look has been toned down a little.

There is a second problem. Earlier versions of DLSS raised frame rates, which means smoother motion. DLSS 5 lowers them, by 50 percent or more in some games.

How people are using it now

Modders got access after an early build of NBA 2K27 leaked. Community apps such as DLSS 5 Manager and DLSS 5 Swapper now add DLSS 5 to almost any PC game, as long as you have an NVIDIA RTX card. The Engadget writer says Swapper scans your games, installs with one click and removes the changes with a "Restore originals" button.

• Early versions of these apps cut frame rates by 30 to 60 percent.
• A recent update improved speed in NBA 2K27, PC Gamer reported.
• Games with anti-cheat software may not start. GTA V: Enhanced Edition would not launch.

Is it worth trying

The writer tested Cyberpunk 2077, Control and the Resident Evil 2 and 3 remakes, and preferred the look with DLSS 5 on. The biggest change was to character faces. Environments changed only slightly. The advice is to use it only in games where you often see your character's face, given the speed cost.