As well as enjoying a good amount of prior success, Lossless Scaling attracted even more attention from PC gamers when it introduced a universal frame generation feature that worked across all types of GPUs.

THS, the developer behind Lossless Scaling has been steadily improving the software since release, and with beta version 3.1, added a feature that even Nvidia’s DLSS doesn’t have – Adaptive Frame Generation. This feature has now been added to the Stable Build.

How does adaptive frame generation work?

Usually, frame generation adds frames at a fixed multiplier, such as with Lossless Scaling's X3 and X4 modes or Nvidia’s DLSS 3 FG or 50 series-exclusive DLSS 4 Multi Frame Gen. Adaptive Frame Generation, however, can dynamically adjust the multipliers to maintain a set frame rate chosen by the user. This mode is said to work best on games with an uncapped framerate or those that don't match a standard screen refresh rate.

There are downsides, though. Adaptive Frame Generation puts a much heavier load on the graphics card. This could result in a decrease in image quality, particularly for older cards. Use of AFG results in a slight increase in latency.

YouTuber Jagadhie went into detail on the new AFG feature, including technical details on exactly how it works and its advantages and shortcomings. Though he is using the preview build, he praises the ease-of-use of the software and how valuable it is for games with no framerate cap, but they are honest about its limitations.

Lossless Scaling is unlikely to ever be a total replacement for something like Nvidia DLSS 4 or AMD FSR 4, as it is a project created by a single developer without the money and resources of a massive company. It also doesn’t operate at a game-specific level with tailor-fit support. However, Lossless Scaling is applicable across all types of graphics cards and PC games. Using this software, there is no need to buy a specific card or wait for a game to get DLSS or FSR support.

Players just need to decide where on the framerate versus image quality debate they stand. Based on users in the Lossless Scaling Discord server, there’s mixed reaction to its implementation so far, with one person saying they are “in love with LS adaptive frame generation” and another claiming it “feels weird” compared to the usual fixed settings.

About the Author

Rebecca Hills-Duty

Writing and journalism experience at VRFocus, UploadVR, The Escapist, HTC, PC Gamer, Tech Radar+ and Dexerto. Can sometimes be found playing with retro tech.