Nvidia recently introduced the DLSS 4 transformer model, a game-changing technology for all current RTX GPU owners. This upgrade enhances graphics by improving resolution and image quality significantly. While reviews from outlets like Hardware Unboxed have praised the new features, we wanted to dive deeper into how this technology overcomes some past issues.
One of the exciting aspects of DLSS 4 is its ability to enhance older games. Depending on the game, users can switch between the traditional convolutional neural network (CNN) model and the new transformer model right in the game settings. Nvidia also has an application that can assist with this, but there are still some hiccups. For instance, it sometimes fails to implement the changes effectively, as seen in titles like Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
For those looking to use DLSS in older games, third-party solutions like DLSS Tweaker can help. You just need to download the latest DLSS super res DLL file, place it in your game folder, and tweak the settings. Even if the process is a bit complicated, the results can be worth it.
When we tested various games, the visual improvements with the transformer model were apparent. For example, in Death Stranding: Director’s Cut, we noticed that objects were sharper and crisper. However, the new system struggled with rain effects around the character, making raindrops less visible, which highlights that there’s still work to be done.
In God of War Ragnarok, the transformer model reduced some visual artifacts but didn’t completely eliminate them. Similarly, in Forza Horizon 5, while the transformer model improved motion clarity, it still had issues with certain elements like telegraph wires. This shows that while the transformer model excels in many areas, it isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution.
Testing Ratchet and Clank, we found that ray tracing reflections still displayed gritty pixels. This seems more specific to the game rather than a fault of DLSS itself. In Dragon’s Dogma 2, we saw notable improvements in how grass moved during windy conditions, although it did reveal some aliasing issues that the blur of ghosting previously masked.
Despite these advancements, not all outcomes were perfect. In Control, the new model introduced noise to Jesse’s character’s hair, and in some games, such as Assassin’s Creed Shadows, it had trouble rendering volumetric fog properly, leading to ghosting effects.
It’s important to remember that this is just the first version of the transformer model. Nvidia is constantly looking to improve the technology. As the company phases out the older CNN system, users can expect more refinements and updates that could address existing flaws.
In conclusion, while the DLSS 4 transformer model offers exciting new possibilities and significant improvements in many areas, it’s clear that it still has room to grow. The future of gaming graphics looks promising, and as more updates roll out, gamers will benefit from even richer visuals.