Microsoft DirectStorage Explained: How It Improves Gaming

What is Microsoft DirectStorage? Does it Improve Gaming?

Slow loading times and sketchy graphics are never fun to deal with. These problems are even worse when playing open-world games like Elder Scrolls and Assassin's Creed or FPS games like VALORANT or Call of Duty. Luckily, there have been software improvements that can help out here, like Microsoft DirectStorage.

Microsoft’s DirectStorage was originally part of Xbox’s Velocity Architecture for the Series X, released in March 2022. But now, this tech is coming to Windows PCs and is even built into Windows 11 (supported on Windows 10, version 1909 and later).

Here’s everything you need to know about Microsoft DirectStorage for gaming, from what it is to why it could be a good idea for you to upgrade for the best gameplay.

What is Microsoft DirectStorage?

Microsoft DirectStorage is a relatively new development by the company that improves how game data is streamed from storage to graphics hardware. It allows developers to take full advantage of NVMe SSDs for faster loading times and more detailed graphics.

Traditionally, games load compressed data from storage into system RAM, where the CPU decompresses it before sending it to the GPU. Basically, it is a more complicated and slower process.

Microsoft DirectStorage lets games bypass some of that process by offloading decompression tasks to the GPU. In short, Microsoft DirectStorage is a better way to move and process data using today's storage hardware.

How Does Microsoft DirectStorage Work?

Microsoft DirectStorage works by optimizing how games access data stored on SSDs. It drastically reduces the time it takes to move assets like textures, models, and environments from storage to the GPU. Unlike older storage APIs, Microsoft DirectStorage batches thousands of requests simultaneously, significantly reducing overhead and improving performance.

It also shifts the decompression workload from the CPU to the GPU, which is much better suited for parallel processing. This shift allows for faster decompression of game assets, freeing up CPU resources for tasks like AI and physics. NVMe SSDs, especially those using PCIe Gen 3 or Gen 4, are ideal for Microsoft DirectStorage as they offer high bandwidth and support multiple queues for efficient data access.

The result is a faster, smoother gaming experience, particularly in open-world games that stream assets in real-time. Players benefit from reduced loading times and seamless transitions between in-game environments.

How Does Microsoft DirectStorage Improve Gaming Performance?

DirectStorage enhances gaming performance in many ways, such as:

• Faster Load Times: Microsoft DirectStorage allows games to pull data from NVMe SSDs more efficiently, drastically reducing the time spent loading screens.
• Seamless Asset Streaming: Games can stream textures and geometry in real-time as you explore the world, reducing pop-in and enabling more immense, detailed environments.
• Lower CPU Usage: By offloading decompression to the GPU, the CPU is freed up for other essential game tasks.
• What About FPS Gains? Microsoft DirectStorage doesn't directly increase your frame rate. It reduces CPU bottlenecks and improves streaming for a more stable and immersive experience.

For serious gamers looking to get the most from DirectStorage, a high-performance NVMe SSD can support modern gaming demands.

System Requirements for Microsoft DirectStorage

To benefit from DirectStorage when gaming, your system must meet a few specific requirements:

• NVMe SSD (PCIe Gen 3 or Gen 4 for best results)
• GPU with DirectX 12 support and Shader Model 6.0
• Windows 10, though Windows 11 has full feature support

While Microsoft DirectStorage can technically be supported on SATA SSDs and even HDDs, thanks to improvements in version 1.2, the most significant performance gains are reserved for systems with modern NVMe drives.

However, not all games utilize Microsoft DirectStorage to their full potential, even on supported hardware. So, you need to know not only what components and operating systems you need to run DirectStorage for gaming but also which games even support it.

Which Games Currently Supports Microsoft DirectStorage?

As of right now, here are some of the games that support Microsoft DirectStorage:

• Forspoken: Launched in January 2023, this was the first official game to support Microsoft DirectStorage. While its gameplay reception was mixed, many gamers were impressed with the lightning-fast load times of 1–2 seconds for many levels.
• Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart: Released July 2023, this title featured vibrant visuals and solid gameplay. Although it initially had performance issues related to Microsoft DirectStorage, continuous patches, and updates helped fix any problems.
• Forza Motorsport: This racing sim came out in October 2023 and was optimized for high-speed performance and quick transitions, making it a natural fit for Microsoft DirectStorage.
• Horizon Forbidden West: The PC release was in March 2024, and while it uses Microsoft DirectStorage, it reportedly relies on CPU decompression due to technical limitations.

Several other games, like New World, Synced, EA Sports FC 24, and Diablo IV, include Microsoft's software development kit (SDK). Having the toolkit means DirectStorage can be integrated into the games, but these games don’t fully support it right now.

It may seem weird that DirectStorage isn’t around more in the gaming world. The thing is, though, that DirectStorage has only been out since 2022 and is still a relatively new technology.

Despite being a relatively new technology, the future of Microsoft DirectStorage looks promising. As hardware and APIs continue to mature, many developers are expected to support Microsoft DirectStorage in upcoming AAA titles. This development means that the benefits of faster load times and smoother performance could become even more widespread in gaming.

Should You Upgrade to Microsoft DirectStorage?

If you're still gaming on an HDD or a SATA SSD, upgrading to a PCIe NVMe SSD, combined with Microsoft DirectStorage, is one of the best decisions you can make. You'll have significantly faster load times and smoother performance and be prepared for future games that adopt Microsoft DirectStorage.

However, due to limited game support, Microsoft DirectStorage alone may not justify an upgrade today. But, as more game developers adopt and use this software in their game design, you'll want to be ready. Investing in a quality NVMe SSD now can future-proof your rig for the next generation of gaming.

Due to limited game support, Microsoft DirectStorage alone may not justify an upgrade today. But, as more game developers adopt and use this software in their game design, you'll want to be ready. Investing in a quality NVMe SSD now can future-proof your rig for the next generation of gaming.

Tips on Upgrading to Microsoft DirectStorage

Microsoft DirectStorage represents a significant leap forward in how games load and process data. It unlocks the true potential of NVMe SSDs while reducing load times and allowing for more expansive and immersive game worlds.

Although only a few titles support Microsoft DirectStorage today, its long-term potential is massive. For gamers wanting to stay ahead of the curve, upgrading to an NVMe SSD and running Windows 11 puts you in a great position to benefit as more games adopt this technology.

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