Nvidia Discontinues 32-Bit PhysX Support
In a significant move, Nvidia has officially ended support for 32-bit implementations of PhysX in its new RTX 50 series graphics cards. This transition comes as part of the company’s decision to phase out support for 32-bit CUDA applications across its latest architecture.
This change implies that gamers playing older titles, such as Batman: Arkham City, Mirror’s Edge, and Mafia II, might experience diminished graphical effects concerning particle and clothing physics. While the immediate workaround is to disable PhysX when launching these games, the overall experience may be impacted.
As reported on the Nvidia forums, one user found that their RTX 5090 attempted to run PhysX via their CPU instead of the GPU, leading to lower performance during gameplay.
In a response, Nvidia acknowledged this situation, stating, “This is expected behavior as 32-bit CUDA applications are deprecated on GeForce RTX 50 series GPUs.” This move does not make the affected titles unplayable but does restrict some graphical elements, rendering them “a bit more static.”
A comprehensive list of impacted games has been shared on platforms such as ResetEra, signaling that many popular titles rely on this support for optimal performance.
While Nvidia’s latest GPUs push forward with advanced technology, the discontinuation of support for older applications highlights significant changes in the gaming landscape. Players are encouraged to seek alternatives, like using a secondary PhysX card or looking for community-driven solutions.
Conclusion
As Nvidia phases out support for 32-bit applications, it’s crucial for gamers to adapt to these changes. As always, community solutions may emerge as a way to revive the experiences enjoyed in the past.
