How to Enable AMD FSR or NVIDIA DLSS in Linux Games (2025 Guide)

Unlock smoother, more visually stunning gameplay on your Linux system with AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) and NVIDIA Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS). These powerful upscaling technologies significantly boost frame rates without sacrificing visual fidelity, making demanding games playable even on less powerful hardware. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough for enabling both AMD FSR and NVIDIA DLSS on your Linux games, covering various methods and troubleshooting tips.

Enabling NVIDIA DLSS and Frame Generation on Linux

DLSS, and its cutting-edge Frame Generation feature, deliver unparalleled performance improvements. However, compatibility requires the right setup:

Step 1: Update Your Drivers and Proton

Ensure you have the latest NVIDIA drivers (version 545 or later recommended) installed. Use your distribution’s package manager or the official NVIDIA installer. Next, switch to Proton Experimental or a custom build like Proton-GE within Steam’s game compatibility settings.

Step 2: Verify Hardware Compatibility

DLSS upscaling works with NVIDIA RTX cards (20-series and later). Crucially, DLSS 3 Frame Generation is only available on RTX 40-series GPUs. Attempting to use Frame Generation on incompatible hardware will result in a disabled option.

Step 3: Activate DLSS in-Game

Launch your game through Steam using your updated Proton version. Locate the graphics settings and select DLSS as your upscaling method. Frame Generation, if available, will usually be a separate toggle. Note that some games may require additional configuration steps.

Step 4: Fine-tune with Environment Variables (Advanced)

Some games, like Portal RTX or No Man’s Sky, might require hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling. If your Frame Generation option is greyed out, add this launch option in Steam:

WINE_DISABLE_HARDWARE_SCHEDULING=0 %command%

Caution: Hardware scheduling can sometimes cause instability. If you encounter crashes, revert this change and check Proton’s issue tracker for solutions.

Step 5: Optimize Performance and Visuals

DLSS generally offers superior image quality to FSR. However, results can vary. If you notice issues like input lag, stuttering, or artifacts, adjust the DLSS quality preset or disable Frame Generation. Remember, performance may differ from a Windows setup.

Enabling AMD FSR System-Wide on Linux via Proton

AMD FSR offers a broader compatibility, thanks to community-driven solutions:

Step 1: Install Proton-GE (or a similar build)

Download Proton-GE (Glorious Eggroll) or another compatible Proton build from GitHub and add it to your Steam compatibility tools. Proton-GE includes a powerful fullscreen upscaler that applies FSR to virtually any game running through Proton.

Step 2: Set FSR Environment Variables

Add this launch option in Steam to activate FSR:

WINE_FULLSCREEN_FSR=1 %command%

For finer control, specify the quality mode:

• WINE_FULLSCREEN_FSR_MODE=ultra (best quality)
• WINE_FULLSCREEN_FSR_MODE=quality
• WINE_FULLSCREEN_FSR_MODE=balanced
• WINE_FULLSCREEN_FSR_MODE=performance (highest FPS)

You can also set a custom resolution:

WINE_FULLSCREEN_FSR_CUSTOM_MODE=2560x1080 (example)

Step 3: Reduce In-Game Resolution

Lower your in-game resolution (e.g., 720p on a 1080p display). FSR will upscale the lower resolution output. Lower base resolutions offer larger performance gains but may sacrifice some image clarity.

Step 4: Verify and Adjust

Test for improvements. If the UI appears blurry, increase the in-game resolution or choose a higher FSR quality mode. Remember, this system-wide approach upscales everything, potentially affecting UI sharpness.

Step 5: Troubleshoot Compatibility Issues

Ensure you aren’t using Wine desktop mode, and check your GPU compatibility (most modern GPUs are supported). Update Proton-GE and review Proton logs for error messages.

Using FSR 2.1 in DLSS-Enabled Games (Advanced Technique)

For games supporting only DLSS, a DLL replacement can enable FSR 2.1. This method is less reliable:

Step 1: Obtain a DLSS-to-FSR Wrapper

Download a reputable DLSS-to-FSR wrapper (like “DLSS2FSR”) from a trusted source.

Step 2: Replace the DLL

Back up the original nvngx_dlss.dll file in your game’s directory and replace it with the wrapper DLL. Some games may need additional configuration.

Step 3: Launch and Select DLSS

The wrapper will redirect DLSS calls to use FSR 2.1. Results are game-dependent and might require further tweaking. This method is less stable and only suitable for experienced users.

Conclusion

AMD FSR and NVIDIA DLSS offer substantial performance gains on Linux gaming. By following these steps and utilizing the advanced techniques when necessary, you can significantly enhance your gaming experience, maximizing frame rates and visual quality. Remember that experimentation and troubleshooting may be required to achieve optimal results in each individual game.