PhysX is an Nvidia-based API that allows the modeling of realistic object dynamics in 3D environments in a standard, speedy manner. Why use a shop graphics card rather than a beefy CPU? In processing complex physical simulations, it turns out that the highly comparable structures used by GPUs are especially effective. Think of Batman’s hat, Geralt’s hair, or Assassin’s Black Flag musket flashes and smoke. Edge Mirror was one of the first PhysX textile physics showpiece games. The outcome is a brilliant next-generation experience, but PhysX has a few disadvantages.
While the API is open to all theoretically, only hardware from Nvidia can be customized with PhysX. For Nvidia, this is very meaningful, but it keeps the team green, so for AMD fans it’s worth remembering. In addition, no Nvidia card can do exactly that. You would need to cut a healthy check if you want to switch the settings all the way, like every other element of the graphic card. First-class seats (including bells and whistles, read: great performance) need 980-level hardware. Cool hair and slick threads are not inexpensive except in the virtual universe.
Furthermore, since PhysX is a different API, explicit support from software developers written into the code is required. Most programming teams don’t bother with this additional work because help is hit and missed. The best projects also depend on production support from Nvidia.
Also with existing support, a lack of optimization may cause significant FPS drops or inconsistent results. As a consequence, regardless of how long PhyX lasts, the library of games promoting PhysX weights about 40, shockingly little. While a few blockbusters in that modest number are deliberately chosen, it is just a drop in the Steam backlog for the most extreme gamers.
The above says, that the improvement that PhysX offers is drastic when used correctly. Smoke is richer, heavier, and bigger. Fabrics ripple in the breeze realistically, and glowing particles break out flames and arms. You will enjoy this visual upgrade without freeze frames or Photoshop review. Demos have an even clearer view of how universal support could have felt, with an advanced code that stretches the benefits of the API to the edge.
However, developer interests are more fitting in PhysX’s favour than existing, must-have features, since they are considered a convenient plus for Nvidia aficionados. If you are looking for an excuse to spend a few extra 100 bucks on a visual enhancement system or cutting-edge excitement, investing in a 144Hz IPS or good VR headset is best served.
Some Basic FAQs answered about Nvidia PhysX:
1) Does PhysX performance on a GPU slow down?
The physical functioning of the GPU is usually much smoother than that of the CPU’s mechanics, thereby improving overall game efficiency and frame rates much faster. The addition of physics will, however, also affect output in the same way as anti-aliasing effects. Gamers still allow AA modes, as AA improves the look of the game. Gamers can also allow physics on their GPUs as long as the frame rates continue to be playable. If AA is allowed, physics running on a GPU is normally much quicker when AA is enabled than physics running on a CPU.
2) Can I run NVIDIA PhysX on my motherboard GPU?
NVIDIA PhysX API uses GPUs in games and applications that support NVIDIA’s Physx, to handle physical environment measurements. Calculations for physics can be very complicated and so the device has to have a 256MB GPU, following the CUDA technology of NVIDIA, with 32 or higher centers. If you don’t meet these specifications for NVIDIA motherboard GPU or NVIDIA graphics card, you won’t be able to use a GPU to measure NVIDIA Physx.
3) What cards will NVIDIA PhysX accelerate?
The NVIDIA PhysX can be accelerated for all GeForce 8 and above graphics cards, with at least 256MB of local onboard graphics and at least 32 cores. If you are to use a dedicated Physx card for the supported NVIDIA graphics card, the system’s other graphics cards must use an NVIDIA GPU as well.
