Digital Foundry appears to be facing internal disagreement over NVIDIA’s newly introduced DLSS 5, as criticism surrounding the technology continues to build across the community and parts of the development scene.
The outlet recently published a video covering DLSS 5, showcasing its AI-driven lighting and rendering improvements. The video has since received a largely negative response from viewers, with criticism aimed at the visual results and overall presentation. The reaction has extended beyond the audience, with indications that not all members of Digital Foundry share the same perspective on the technology.
Alex Battaglia addressed the situation in a ResetEra post, responding to criticism of the coverage. He stated, “Do not know what to say at the moment other than ‘there is a diversity of opinions’.” He also noted that colleague John Linneman had already shared his own thoughts publicly, adding, “John spoke for himself on social media – I will probably do it in a video Form?” Battaglia further revealed that he had recorded an initial reaction to DLSS 5 upon first seeing it, saying, “I posted earlier in the thread that I actually recorded a personal reaction Video to DLSS5 at Like 4.30 PM DE time – First time seeing it I think before the Public did. I think it reflects my opinion well that I have iterated many times on DF Direct or on social media.”
John Linneman also weighed in on social media, offering a more critical take on certain aspects of the technology. He wrote, “It’s new DLSS and DLSS is awesome. Of course they would take that. Looking at it, I think there’s cool potential there for environmental lighting but the character stuff is horrendous and should have been left out.” His earlier remarks were later walked back, though the initial criticism added to the perception of mixed views within the team.
The discussion comes amid wider concerns about DLSS 5 and its potential impact on artistic direction in games. Bethesda Game Studios previously responded to the situation following the same Digital Foundry coverage, stating, “Appreciate your excitement and analysis of the new DLSS 5 lighting here. This is a very early look, and our art teams will be further adjusting the lighting and final effect to look the way we think works best for each game.” The studio emphasized that “This will all be under our artists’ control, and totally optional for players.”
NVIDIA has also defended the technology, maintaining that developers retain control over its implementation. The company stated, “Important to note with this technology advance – game developers have full, detailed artistic control over DLSS 5’s effects to ensure they maintain their game’s unique aesthetic.” It further clarified the underlying approach, adding, “It’s not a filter – DLSS 5 inputs the game’s color and motion vectors for each frame into the model, anchoring the output in the source 3D content.”
