DLSS 5 in Hogwarts Legacy criticized for barely noticeable graphics improvements
After complaints about changes to character appearances, NVIDIA introduced a more restrained image processing approach, but players remained dissatisfied.
The Hogwarts Legacy update with DLSS 5 support was released on November 5, 2026, and sparked a new wave of debate. While users previously criticized the technology for excessively altering character faces, some now consider the visual improvements practically imperceptible.
In a demonstration video, NVIDIA showcased the 3D-Guided Neural Rendering technology, which is intended to enhance lighting, shadows, materials, and environmental details while preserving the game's original style. However, viewers noted that the difference between the image with DLSS 5 and without it was too minimal.
Earlier, the technology had drawn criticism after the demonstration of Resident Evil Requiem, where Grace Ashcroft's appearance was noticeably altered. In the case of Hogwarts Legacy, Avalanche Software developers included intensity settings for processing to maintain the characters' appearances.
DLSS 5 support is available on GeForce RTX 50 graphics cards and in GeForce NOW Ultimate. Meanwhile, NVIDIA has not claimed that the changes were a response to previous criticism.
