In short
A backup makes every OptiScaler test reversible: copy the files that may be replaced, note INI changes, and keep one known-good setup per game.
Steps
- List the files in the game executable folder before copying anything.
- Copy anything the install may replace or rename.
- Note custom INI values you already use.
- Test; restore from the backup if the game misbehaves.
Facts that do not change
Reference build is OptiScaler 0.9.4. Install is a ZIP next to the main game executable; the overlay opens with Insert. Avoid online or anti-cheat protected games, and test offline first.
Frequently asked questions
What is OptiScaler?
OptiScaler is a community tool that can intercept supported in-game upscaler calls and redirect them to another supported upscaling backend, with additional tuning options.
How does OptiScaler work in a game?
The game exposes an input upscaler, OptiScaler sits between the game and the selected output backend, and the chosen output handles the final upscaling path where compatibility allows.
Does OptiScaler support DirectX 11?
Yes, DirectX 11 is supported, although the available output methods and behavior can differ from DirectX 12.
Does OptiScaler support DirectX 12?
Yes. DirectX 12 has broad support and is also the API used by experimental OptiFG functionality.
Practical Checklist
- Keep original files backed up before changing the game folder.
- Test one setting or backend at a time.
- Avoid anti-cheat protected online sessions.
- Document the working configuration before updating.
Related Guides
Continue with the related guides in the sidebar for setup, compatibility, performance, or safety topics.
- OptiScaler how-to: install, overlay, FSR4 and fixes — Query-shaped how-tos: how to install, open the overlay, enable FSR4, fix a missing overlay and remove OptiScaler cleanly.
- OptiScaler FAQ: the official 20 questions, answered — Standalone URLs for the official site's 20 OptiScaler questions — APIs, overlay, FSR4, Linux, anti-cheat and the manager question.
- How to install OptiScaler — Extract the required files beside the main game executable and follow the setup method suitable for that game. Always back up replaced files first.
- How to open the OptiScaler overlay with Insert — Insert is commonly used to open the overlay. Some keyboard layouts may need an alternate combination depending on the game and configuration.
- How to fix the OptiScaler overlay not showing — Common causes include an incorrect install folder, the wrong proxy DLL, input-hook conflicts, overlays, or a game-specific compatibility issue.