Baldur’s Gate 3: Forcing DirectX 11 via Launch Options Config

The Larian Launcher acts as a gateway that allows you to choose between Vulkan and DX11, but this extra layer of software can sometimes cause memory leaks or prevent the game from utilizing your hardware’s full potential. For many NVIDIA users and those on older Windows versions, DirectX 11 provides a much smoother frame-time graph and better alt-tab stability. By bypassing the launcher and forcing DX11 via a direct config command, you can streamline the boot process and ensure the game uses the most stable rendering path for your specific hardware.

Hardware Compatibility & Expectations

• NVIDIA Users: Generally, DX11 is more stable and provides better performance on RTX 20 and 30-series cards.
• Older CPUs: DX11 often has lower CPU overhead in high-density areas like the Lower City of Baldur’s Gate.
• Steam Deck/Linux Users: Note that Vulkan is usually preferred for Linux, but DX11 can be forced if you experience graphical glitches under Proton.

Backup and Preparation

Since we are using Steam/GOG launch options, you don’t need to back up your save files, but it is recommended to ensure your drivers are up to date before switching APIs.

1. Close Baldur’s Gate 3 and the Larian Launcher.
2. Identify whether you are using the Steam or GOG Galaxy version.
3. Update your GPU drivers to the latest version (NVIDIA 537.13 or AMD 23.8.2 and above).

File Location & Launch Configuration

Instead of editing a .txt file, we apply this configuration directly to the game’s startup sequence.

For Steam Users:

1. Right-click Baldur’s Gate 3 in your Library.
2. Select Properties > General.
3. Locate the Launch Options text box at the bottom.

For GOG Users:

1. Select the game in GOG Galaxy.
2. Click the Settings icon (top right) > Manage installation > Configure.
3. Check the Custom executables / arguments box.

Best Config Commands

Paste the following command into the Launch Options box to bypass the launcher and force DirectX 11:

--dx11 --skip-launcher

Pro Tip: If you want to force the game to run as a high-priority process for better CPU performance, use:

--dx11 --skip-launcher -high

Key Parameters Explained

Parameter	Recommended	Impact
–dx11	Enabled	Forces the engine to initialize the DirectX 11 rendering pipeline.
–skip-launcher	Enabled	Bypasses the Larian Launcher, saving RAM and preventing launcher-related crashes.
-high	Optional	Sets the Windows process priority to “High” to reduce background stutter.
–vulkan	Disabled	Use this only if you want to switch back to the Vulkan API.

In-Game Settings vs. Config

To maintain the stability gained by forcing DX11, match these in-game settings:

• Model Quality: High (DX11 handles geometry well).
• Slow HDD Mode: Enabled (Only if you are not on an NVMe SSD).
• Instance Distance: Medium (Saves CPU cycles in the Act 3 city).
• NVIDIA DLSS / AMD FSR: Set to “Quality” to recover frames in GPU-bound areas.

Troubleshooting & Common Fixes

• Game Fails to Launch: Ensure you have the latest DirectX End-User Runtimes installed.
• Screen Flickering: This often happens in Borderless Windowed mode with DX11. Try switching to Exclusive Fullscreen in the Video menu.
• Steam Overlay Not Working: Bypassing the launcher sometimes disconnects the overlay. If this happens, remove --skip-launcher but keep --dx11.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion and Expected Results

Forcing DirectX 11 via launch options is the #1 recommended fix for technical stability in Baldur’s Gate 3. By bypassing the launcher, you reduce system overhead and ensure a more consistent frame-rate. Most players report a significant reduction in micro-stuttering and the total elimination of “Vulkan Instance” errors.