how to run dark and darker dx11

Daniel Parker

3 min read

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11-01-2025

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Dark and Darker, the highly anticipated dungeon-crawling PvPvE game, has captivated players with its challenging gameplay and immersive atmosphere. However, some players have encountered difficulties running the game smoothly. One common solution is switching to DirectX 11. This guide will walk you through how to run Dark and Darker using DX11 and optimize your settings for the best possible experience.

Understanding DirectX Versions: DX11 vs. DX12

DirectX (DX) is an API (Application Programming Interface) that allows games to interact with your computer's graphics hardware. DX12 is the newer version, offering potential performance advantages but also requiring more powerful hardware and potentially causing compatibility issues. DX11 is a more mature and widely compatible version. Switching to DX11 can resolve performance problems for some players.

How to Force DX11 in Dark and Darker

Unfortunately, there isn't a built-in option within Dark and Darker's settings to directly select DX11. The solution requires modifying a game file. Proceed with caution, as incorrect file edits can cause problems. Always back up your game files before making any changes.

Steps to Force DX11:

1. Locate the Game's Executable: Find the Dark and Darker game installation directory. The location will vary depending on your operating system and where you installed the game. It's often found in your Steam library under "Steamapps/common/DarkandDarker".

2. Find the "DarkAndDarker.exe" file. This is the main game executable.

3. Create a Shortcut: Right-click the DarkAndDarker.exe file and select "Create shortcut."

4. Modify the Shortcut Properties: Right-click the shortcut and select "Properties."

5. Add the DX11 Command: In the "Target" field, add -dx11 at the end of the existing text. There should be a space before -dx11. It will look something like this (the path will be different for you): "C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\DarkandDarker\DarkAndDarker.exe" -dx11

6. Save Changes: Click "Apply" and then "OK."

7. Launch the Game: Run Dark and Darker using the newly created shortcut.

Optimizing Your Dark and Darker Settings for DX11

Even with DX11, you'll want to optimize your in-game settings to get the best performance. Experiment with these settings:

• Resolution: Lowering your resolution (e.g., from 1080p to 720p) can significantly improve FPS.
• Graphics Quality: Reduce settings like shadows, anti-aliasing, and texture quality to lower the graphical load. Start by turning down the less visually impactful settings first.
• VSync: Disable VSync if you experience screen tearing. It can reduce frame rate.
• Field of View (FOV): Adjust your FOV to your preference. A lower FOV can slightly improve performance.
• Post-processing Effects: These often have a large performance impact. Try turning them down or off entirely.

Troubleshooting

If you still experience performance issues after switching to DX11 and optimizing your settings:

• Update your graphics drivers: Ensure you have the latest drivers for your graphics card.
• Check your system requirements: Make sure your computer meets the minimum requirements for Dark and Darker.
• Close background applications: Close any unnecessary programs running in the background.
• Consider upgrading your hardware: If your computer is significantly below the minimum requirements, upgrading your CPU, GPU, or RAM might be necessary.

Conclusion

Switching to DX11 can be a beneficial step in improving your Dark and Darker experience, especially if you're struggling with performance on DX12. Remember to back up your files and follow the steps carefully. By combining DX11 with optimized in-game settings, you'll be well on your way to enjoying smoother, more consistent gameplay in the dangerous world of Dark and Darker. Remember to always check the official Dark and Darker forums or support channels for the latest information and troubleshooting tips.