Nvidia DLSS 5: Gamers Criticize AI Upscaling & Visuals

Bethesda Softworks has pledged to adjust the implementation of Nvidia’s newly released DLSS 5 technology in its space exploration role-playing game, Starfield, following a wave of criticism regarding the visual quality of character faces. The commitment came after players and industry observers noted a perceived “uncanny” and artificial appearance to characters rendered with the upscaling technology.

The controversy surrounding DLSS 5 – Nvidia’s latest iteration of Deep Learning Super Sampling – centers on its use of artificial intelligence to enhance image resolution. While intended to improve performance and visual fidelity, the technology has drawn scrutiny for its impact on facial details, with some describing the results as resembling “AI slop” or “Snapchat filters.” A 12-minute tech demo of Starfield utilizing DLSS 5 highlighted these concerns, prompting a swift response from Bethesda.

“Following the initial reactions to the Starfield DLSS 5 demo, we want to assure players that our art teams are actively working to further refine the lighting and final effect,” Bethesda stated, according to reporting by IGN. The company indicated that it intends to maintain artistic control over the game’s visuals, despite the technology’s potential to introduce AI-driven alterations.

The backlash against DLSS 5 isn’t limited to Starfield. Concerns were also raised regarding the technology’s application in the upcoming game, Crimson Desert, as discussed on the GamerGuild Podcast on March 22, 2026. The podcast also noted the release of Starfield on the PlayStation 5, a development that occurred after a period of exclusivity on Xbox, and PC.

Nvidia’s unveiling of DLSS 5, led by CEO Jensen Huang, has sparked a broader debate within the gaming community about the role of AI in game development and art design. Some fear that the technology could override the creative vision of artists, leading to homogenized and less distinctive visual styles. The GamerGuild Podcast discussed DLSS 5 at length on March 23, 2026, acknowledging the transformative potential of the technology while also expressing reservations about its aesthetic impact.

Bethesda’s announcement of a second major expansion for Starfield, revealed alongside the DLSS 5 controversy, suggests the company remains committed to supporting the game and addressing player feedback. However, the future of DLSS 5 integration in Starfield, and the extent to which Bethesda will be able to mitigate the concerns raised by players, remains to be seen.