Nvidia's DLSS 5 Launches with Neural Rendering, Debuts in NBA 2K7
Nvidia's highly anticipated DLSS 5 technology is set to roll out this week, introducing generative AI for graphical filters. The initial release is exclusive to NBA 2K7with GeForce drivers available Thursday night in the US and early Friday morning in the UK. This new DLSS iteration is compatible with GeForce 50-series graphics cards, laptops, and GeForce Now.
The core of DLSS 5, "neural rendering," goes beyond previous DLSS functions focused on performance. Nvidia explains it aims "to transform visual fidelity as well," using AI to generate rich lighting and material details previously omitted due to real-time performance limitations. Nvidia states this allows developers to "realise their original artistic vision," clarifying that 3D-Guided Neural Rendering uses the game engine's rendered frame as a foundation. DLSS 5 then enhances scenes with lifelike lighting and materials while ensuring the artist guides what can be altered.
However, earlier examples of DLSS 5's impact on character appearances drew significant criticism. Images shared by Nvidia, showing Resident Evil Requiem's Grace Ashcroft with facial alterations, were widely perceived as changing her appearance undesirably, leading to accusations of "yassifying." Further examples emerged from leaks, with modders experimenting in titles like Remedy's ControlGTA 5Cyberpunk 2077and The Witcher 3where Geralt reportedly appeared older. Nvidia's recent blog post emphasized developer and player control, including the option to simply disable the feature.
Beyond ethical considerations, reported performance implications exist. Despite DLSS historically enhancing performance, DLSS 5 appears to significantly affect frame rates. While Nvidia's blog showcases high frame rates, ed these figures are based on 6x multi-frame generation numbers. A GeForce RTX 5060 card reportedly achieves only 43 FPS in NBA 2K7 at 1080p Ultra with DLSS 5, and a GeForce RTX 5090 barely surpasses 60 FPS in 4K Ultra.
Nvidia acknowledges substantial progress since DLSS 5's March announcement, noting a 5X performance gain that reduced the requirement from dual GeForce RTX 5090s to a single card. The company anticipates further performance boosts from upcoming model updates scheduled for the autumn. For players, this means a powerful new visual enhancement technology promising more realistic lighting and materials, but with potential changes to character appearances and a notable impact on frame rates. The ability to toggle DLSS 5 provides users with control over their visual experience and performance trade-offs.