DLSS 3 mod for Starfield has a controversial DRM paywall
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September 6, 2023DLSS 3 mod for Starfield has a controversial DRM paywall
DLSS 3 mod for Starfield has a controversial DRM paywall
DLSS 3 mod for Starfield has a controversial DRM paywall
In the ever-evolving world of gaming, Starfield, though still in early access, has already ignited a firestorm of discussion within its modding community. The focal point of this fervor? A mod that introduces Nvidia’s DLSS 3 upscaling technology, a feature Bethesda chose not to include in favor of AMD’s FSR 2. However, what has truly set tongues wagging is modder PureDark’s decision to reserve DLSS 3’s advanced frame-generation capabilities exclusively for Patreon subscribers, while offering a free version limited to DLSS 2, which provides upscaling but not frame generation.
The Controversy Surrounding Paid Mods
Charging users for mods remains a contentious issue, as demonstrated by Bethesda and Valve’s ill-fated collaboration in 2015, which allowed modders to monetize their Skyrim mods on Steam. The backlash was swift and severe, prompting Valve to backtrack within days. Alden Kroll of Valve acknowledged that they had “missed the mark pretty badly” with this initiative.
DLSS 3 Mod: Adding Fuel to the Fire
PureDark’s decision to implement DRM (Digital Rights Management) in the DLSS 3 Starfield mod to restrict access to Patreon supporters has further stoked the controversy. Notably, reports from RockPaperShotgun suggest that attempts to thwart non-Patreon subscribers through copy protection have already been overcome. DLSS 3 stands out for its ability to generate additional frames on newer Nvidia GPUs in the 40-series, complementing the upscaling to higher resolutions.
Performance and Popularity of DLSS Mods
For those unwilling to pay, the DLSS 2 mod offers commendable performance. Benchmarks by RockPaperShotgun indicate that it matches or even surpasses the official AMD FSR 2 support, with slightly improved image quality. As of now, PureDark’s “Starfield Upscaler” DLSS mod ranks as the most popular release on NexusMods for Starfield.
A Track Record of Modding Innovation
PureDark has a track record of pioneering DLSS support in games that don’t officially embrace Nvidia’s upscaling technology. Their NexusMods profile showcases previous mods for Bethesda titles like Fallout 4 and Skyrim. Notably, PureDark had previously introduced DRM to their DLSS 3 mod for Red Dead Redemption 2.
AMD’s Stance and Potential for DLSS in Starfield
Despite AMD’s status as Starfield’s “exclusive PC partner,” the gaming chief, Frank Azor, has suggested that there’s no impediment to the game supporting Nvidia’s DLSS. AMD, in a surprising move, has expressed full support for such an integration if Bethesda chooses to pursue it.
As the Starfield modding community grapples with these divisive developments, the future remains uncertain. The clash between innovation, exclusivity, and DRM continues to challenge the gaming landscape, leaving gamers and modders with much to ponder.
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