Technology
Nvidia to launch controversial DLSS 5 technology on September 3
The new AI rendering tool requires RTX 50-series GPUs and will debut with NBA 2K27 amid lingering concerns over artistic integrity.
The short version
- Nvidia is launching DLSS 5, a new AI upscaling and "neural rendering" technology, alongside the release of NBA 2K27 on September 3.
- The technology will be restricted to Nvidia's RTX 50-series desktop and laptop GPUs, as well as its GeForce Now cloud gaming service.
- Early demonstrations of DLSS 5 faced strong backlash from critics and gamers who argued its AI-modified character models resembled "slop" and distorted artistic intent.
Key facts
- Nvidia is officially launching its DLSS 5 AI upscaling technology on September 3 alongside the PC release of NBA 2K27, which is the only game supporting the tech at launch.[Engadget · The Verge]
- The feature requires Nvidia's RTX 50-series desktop or laptop GPUs, though it will also be accessible via GeForce Now cloud gaming.[Engadget · The Verge]
- Nvidia has updated its messaging to emphasize that DLSS 5 preserves artistic intent, respects the rendered frame, and provides game developers with full control.[The Verge]
- Edward Liu, Nvidia's Director of Applied Deep Learning Research, stated that DLSS 5 uses a game's render frame to produce deterministic outputs, meaning characters and objects will remain consistent.[Engadget]
What remains uncertain
- It remains to be seen whether game developers will adopt a subtle approach to the technology or if the gaming community will broadly reject it due to concerns over altered aesthetics.[Engadget]