Is Witcher 3 Next Gen DX12? A Deep Dive into Performance, Problems, and Patches

Yes, the Next-Gen update for The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt introduced DirectX 12 (DX12) as a new API option, upgrading from the original game’s DX11. However, the implementation has been a somewhat rocky road, riddled with performance concerns and ultimately sparking a debate about whether DX12 is actually the superior choice for this particular title. Let’s delve into the intricacies of this update, exploring its performance implications, the fixes that have been deployed, and how to make the best decision for your own gaming setup.

The Promise of DX12 and the Reality of Witcher 3’s Implementation

DirectX 12, in theory, offers substantial performance advantages over its predecessor. Microsoft claims it can reduce CPU overhead by up to 50% and improve GPU performance by as much as 20%. This potential stems from its lower-level API, allowing developers more direct control over hardware resources. This direct control can enable better CPU core utilization and more efficient rendering pipelines.

However, the “Witcher 3 Next-Gen” update’s DX12 implementation initially fell short of these promises. Many players experienced performance degradation compared to DX11, including stuttering, FPS drops, and generally unstable frame rates. The primary culprit seemed to be the game’s inability to properly utilize multiple CPU threads in the DX12 version, leading to bottlenecks and high CPU usage on a few key threads. This CPU limitation negated the potential GPU performance gains and resulted in a less-than-ideal experience for many.

Understanding the Patches and Fixes

CD Projekt Red (CDPR) has been actively working to address these issues since the release of the Next-Gen update. Patch 4.0, the initial Next-Gen update, brought the DX12 API, but subsequent patches, including 4.01 and 4.02, focused on bug fixes and performance improvements. These patches targeted better CPU core utilization, restored horizon-based ambient occlusion, and fixed a plethora of other technical problems.

While these updates have undeniably improved the overall stability and performance of the game, the DX12 version still doesn’t consistently outperform DX11 for all users. The ideal choice ultimately depends on your hardware configuration and personal preferences.

DX11 vs. DX12: Which Should You Choose?

The question of whether to use DX11 or DX12 in “The Witcher 3 Next-Gen” is not straightforward. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

• High-End Systems: If you possess a top-tier system, particularly one with a powerful GPU like an RTX 4090, and you want to utilize ray tracing features, DX12 is likely the only option. Ray tracing is only available in the DX12 version of the game. However, be prepared to potentially sacrifice some performance even with high-end hardware.
• Mid-Range Systems: For systems in the mid-range, the choice is less clear. Many users report better performance with DX11, even after the patches. Experimenting with both APIs and monitoring your frame rates and CPU/GPU utilization is recommended.
• Lower-End Systems: On lower-end systems, DX11 is generally the safer bet. The CPU overhead of DX12 can be especially detrimental on less powerful processors, leading to significant performance issues.

Keep in mind: The performance landscape can also change depending on driver updates for your graphics card. Keep your drivers up-to-date to ensure you have the latest optimizations.

How to Switch Between DX11 and DX12

Fortunately, switching between DX11 and DX12 is a relatively simple process:

1. Navigate to your “Witcher 3” game folder.
2. Open the file named “launcher-configuration.json”.
3. Locate the line that reads: "fallback": "DirectX 12".
4. Change "DirectX 12" to "DirectX 11" to force the game to use DX11.
5. Save the file.

This will instruct the game to use the DX11 API upon launch. Reversing the change will switch it back to DX12.

Beyond DirectX: Other Performance Considerations

While the DX11 vs. DX12 debate is central to the “Witcher 3 Next-Gen” performance discussion, other factors also play a significant role:

• Graphics Settings: Adjusting your graphics settings can have a dramatic impact on performance. Lowering settings like shadow quality, foliage visibility range, and the number of NPCs can significantly improve frame rates.
• Ray Tracing: Enabling ray tracing is extremely demanding. Even on high-end systems, it can lead to a substantial performance hit. If you’re struggling to achieve acceptable frame rates, consider disabling ray tracing entirely.
• Hardware Limitations: Ultimately, your hardware will dictate the performance you can achieve. An older CPU or GPU may simply not be capable of running the game at higher settings or resolutions, regardless of the API used.
• Driver Updates: As mentioned before, keep your graphics drivers updated. NVIDIA and AMD frequently release new drivers that include performance optimizations for specific games.

The Enduring Appeal of The Witcher 3

Despite the performance issues that have plagued the Next-Gen update, “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt” remains a masterpiece. Its compelling story, rich world, and engaging gameplay continue to captivate players years after its initial release. With continued support and optimization from CDPR, and the knowledge to fine-tune settings, players can still enjoy this incredible game. To further your understanding of game development and the impact of games on society, consider exploring resources like the Games Learning Society. Learn more at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is The Witcher 3 Next-Gen fixed now?

CD Projekt RED has released several patches addressing the initial problems. While improvements have been made, some users still experience performance issues, particularly with DX12. Whether it’s “fixed” depends on your hardware and expectations.

2. Does DX12 reduce performance in The Witcher 3?

Potentially, yes. Initially, many users reported lower performance with DX12 compared to DX11. While patches have improved the situation, DX12 performance can still be inconsistent.

3. What version is Witcher 3 Next-Gen?

The Next-Gen update to The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is labeled as Patch 4.0, with subsequent patches like 4.01 and 4.02 addressing bug fixes and performance improvements.

4. Should I play Witcher 3 DirectX 12?

It depends on your hardware. If you have a high-end system and want to use ray tracing, DX12 is necessary. Otherwise, DX11 may offer better performance for many users. Experiment to see what works best for you.

5. Does Witcher 3 run better on DX11 or DX12?

This varies. While DX12 has the potential for better performance, the implementation in “The Witcher 3 Next-Gen” is not optimized for all systems. DX11 often provides more stable frame rates, especially on mid-range or lower-end PCs.

6. How much FPS is The Witcher 3 next generation update?

FPS varies greatly depending on your hardware, resolution, and graphics settings. Without ray tracing, achieving a stable 60 FPS is possible on many systems. Ray tracing significantly reduces FPS, even on high-end hardware.

7. Is The Witcher 3 CPU or GPU heavy?

“The Witcher 3” is both CPU and GPU intensive. While a powerful GPU is crucial for running the game at high settings, a capable CPU is also necessary to avoid bottlenecks, especially in the DX12 version.

8. What is the DX12 update for Witcher 3?

The DX12 update introduces DirectX 12 as a new API option, aiming to improve CPU core utilization and overall performance. It also enables ray tracing features.

9. Did the switch version of Witcher 3 get the next gen update?

Yes, the Nintendo Switch version has received an update that includes the best features from version 4.0, often referred to as the Next-Gen update.

10. Is Witcher 3 Next Gen broken?

The initial release of the Next-Gen update was plagued with issues, but subsequent patches have addressed many of them. While the game is not entirely “broken,” some performance problems may still persist.

11. Is it better to play on DirectX 11 or 12 generally?

Generally, DirectX 12 should offer better performance if properly implemented. However, in some cases, like “The Witcher 3 Next-Gen,” the implementation may not be optimized, leading to better performance on DirectX 11 for certain systems.

12. What is the controversy with Witcher 3 next gen?

One controversy involved the addition of ultra-realistic genitalia to certain character models in the Next-Gen update, which some considered unnecessary and inappropriate. There was also the controversy with the Next Gen update slow performance.

13. Does Witcher 3 Next Gen upgrade quality-of-life?

Yes, the Next-Gen update includes various quality-of-life improvements, such as new map filters, selectable walking modes on consoles, and haptic feedback support on consoles.

14. What is the difference between Witcher 3 and next gen?

The Next-Gen update features overhauled graphics, including improved grass and foliage, enhanced textures, updated character and enemy models, a new questline, and various gameplay enhancements.

15. Will Witcher 3 next gen have better graphics?

Yes, the Next-Gen update significantly improves the game’s graphics, featuring enhanced textures, updated models, and improved environmental detail.