Devil May Cry 5: Editing dmc5config.ini for Ultrawide Support

While DMC5 is visually stunning, its engine hard-locks the UI and certain camera parameters to 16:9. Simply changing the resolution in the in-game menu often fails to remove the black bars. Editing the dmc5config.ini is the first step in unlocking the engine’s potential. Combined with the “REFramework” mod (highly recommended for Ultrawide users), these config tweaks ensure that the game renders every particle effect and demon across your entire screen without stretching.

Hardware Compatibility & Expectations

  • VRAM Overhead: Running at 3440x1440p (Ultrawide) requires roughly 30% more VRAM than standard 1080p. Ensure you have at least 6GB of VRAM for “High” textures.
  • Aspect Ratio: These tweaks work for 21:9, 32:9, and even triple-monitor setups.
  • Cutscene Note: Pre-rendered cutscenes will remain in 16:9, but all real-time gameplay and engine-driven cinematics will expand to fill your screen.

Backup and Preparation

Modifying the configuration file is safe, but the game may reset it if the “Steam Cloud” syncs an older version.

  1. Completely exit Devil May Cry 5.
  2. Navigate to the game’s installation folder (path below).
  3. Right-click dmc5config.ini, select Copy, and save a backup to your desktop.
  4. Open the original file with Notepad++.

File Location

The configuration file is located in the main Steam directory for the game: ...\SteamLibrary\steamapps\common\Devil May Cry 5\dmc5config.ini

Best Config Settings for Ultrawide

Search for the [Display] and [Graphics] sections. Update the resolution and aspect ratio parameters to match your specific monitor (Example below is for 3440x1440p):

[Display]
Resolution=3440x1440
FullScreenDisplayMode=1
WindowMode=ExclusiveFullScreen
RefreshRate=144.00Hz

[Graphics]
TargetPlatform=DirectX12
HDRMode=Off
Capability=DirectX12
SelectionPriority=Standard

Pro Tip: If the game continues to show black bars after editing, you must install REFramework (from GitHub/NexusMods). Once installed, press Insert in-game and check the “Ultrawide/Free Aspect Ratio” box to fix the FOV.

Key Parameters Explained

ParameterRecommended ValueImpact
Resolution[Your Native Res]Forces the engine to initialize at your specific Ultrawide pixel count.
WindowModeExclusiveFullScreenEssential for Ultrawide to bypass Windows Desktop Manager scaling issues.
TargetPlatformDirectX12Provides better frame-time consistency for the extra pixels rendered in Ultrawide.
RefreshRate[Your Monitor Max]Ensures the game logic doesn’t stutter on high-refresh Ultrawide panels.

In-Game Settings vs. Config

To maintain visual fidelity in Ultrawide, use these in-game Graphics settings:

  • Resolution Scale: Set to 100%. Lowering this in Ultrawide creates a very “fuzzy” image due to the stretched pixel density.
  • Variable Rate Shading (VRS): Set to OFF. In Ultrawide, the edges of the screen are more visible; VRS can cause noticeable pixelation in your peripheral vision.
  • Ambient Occlusion: Set to HDAO. This provides the best depth shadows for the expanded FOV without a massive performance hit.

Troubleshooting & Common Fixes

  • FOV is too “Zoomed In”: This is a common RE Engine issue in Ultrawide. You must use a tool like REFramework or a Hex Editor to change the fov value, as it is not present in the standard .ini.
  • Menu Flickering: If the menus flicker, set WindowMode=Borderless in the config. Some Ultrawide monitors handle Borderless better than Exclusive Fullscreen.
  • Settings Resetting: If the game reverts to 1920×1080, right-click dmc5config.ini, select Properties, and check Read-only.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Will I get banned for using Ultrawide mods/configs?

No. DMC5 is a single-player/co-op game. Capcom does not ban for visual or configuration modifications.

Does Ultrawide affect the “Style” ranking?

No. The game’s logic and combat remain identical. You simply gain a wider peripheral view, which can actually help in spotting off-screen enemies.

Why disable HDR in the config?

DMC5’s HDR implementation can be inconsistent on certain Ultrawide monitors. It is safer to calibrate your SDR brightness first to ensure colors aren’t “washed out” across the wider display.

Conclusion and Expected Results

By manually refining your dmc5config.ini, you are removing the limitations that keep Dante and Nero’s journey confined to a 16:9 box. You can expect a massive increase in immersion, better peripheral awareness during combat, and a flawless technical setup for your high-end display.

Leave a Comment