Modders are experimenting with an early version of Nvidia’s DLSS 5, applying its AI effects to games like Control, Skyrim, and GTA V. The results, while visually interesting, come at the cost of performance, with some mods halving frame rates.

The “Neural Uplift” setting in these experiments has caused facial textures to shift, with smoother appearances turning paler and more detailed. In GTA: San Andreas, the mod adds a filter effect to CJ’s face, enhancing textures and making shadows more pronounced.

Nvidia first announced DLSS 5 in March, aiming to bring photorealistic lighting and materials to games. However, early reactions have been mixed, with some players finding the effects too artificial or generic. CEO Jensen Huang has defended the tool, saying it won’t alter a game’s artistic vision.

With DLSS 5 set to be officially launched this fall, the tech raises questions about the balance between visual fidelity and performance in gaming.