Zenless Zone Zero: V3.0 Graphics Upgrades Explained

Zenless Zone Zero: V3.0 Graphics Upgrades Explained

Discover how ZZZ’s V3.0 brings ray tracing, DLSS, FSR, and frame generation to PCs. Get hardware requirements and setup tips.

Hoyoverse is rolling out a substantial visual overhaul for Zenless Zone Zero with the Version 3.0 update, introducing features like ray tracing, super resolution, and frame generation to PC players. A follow-up Version 3.1 patch will extend support to select AMD graphics cards. For the latest coverage on New Eridu, check out the full Zenless Zone Zero news hub.

If you have been holding off on upgrading your graphics settings or wondering whether your current rig can handle the new eye candy, this guide breaks down exactly what is supported, how to enable each feature, and what hardware you need.

At a Glance

  • DX12 mode is now available for GPUs with NVIDIA RT Cores (20-series and newer) and AMD Radeon RX 7000/9000 series.
  • Ray tracing works in city and select combat scenes, requiring an NVIDIA 20-series or higher with at least 8 GB VRAM.
  • DLSS and FSR super resolution are supported on eligible NVIDIA and AMD cards respectively.
  • Frame generation includes DLSS Frame Gen, DLSS Multi-Frame Gen (50-series only), and FSR frame generation.
  • Shader compilation occurs on first DX12 launch; a repair tool is available if interrupted.

DX12 and Shader Compilation

The Version 3.0 update adds a dedicated DX12 toggle on the launcher. Players with supported GPUs can select it to launch the game in DX12 mode, which unlocks the advanced rendering features. If you encounter issues, you can switch back to the more compatible DX11 mode anytime.

When launching in DX12 for the first time, the game will automatically trigger shader compilation. This may cause brief stutters — that is normal and expected. If the process is cut off, use the Repair Tool on the launcher screen to restart compilation.

Ray Tracing Support

Ray tracing is available only on devices equipped with NVIDIA 20-series or higher GPUs that include RT Cores and have at least 8 GB of VRAM. The feature is currently limited to city scenes and select combat encounters; outside of those areas, the game reverts to the default global illumination.

Recommended hardware for ray tracing:

Resolution Minimum VRAM Recommended Ray Tracing Quality Super Resolution Quality
1080p 8 GB Medium Performance
1440p (2K) 12 GB Medium Balanced
2160p (4K) 16 GB High Balanced

To enable ray tracing, go to Options → Graphics → Advanced → Ray Tracing. Once enabled, the Global Illumination and Anti-Aliasing options become locked; adjust the overall quality via the Ray Tracing Level preset. Hoyoverse notes that more GPU models will receive ray tracing support in future updates.

Super Resolution and Frame Generation

Super resolution upscaling is supported by both NVIDIA and AMD cards. NVIDIA 20-series and newer GPUs can use DLSS or FSR3, while AMD Radeon RX 7000/9000 series cards support FSR4. Enable super resolution via Options → Display → Advanced → Super Resolution, choosing between DLSS and FSR. When active, the Anti-Aliasing and Rendering options will not be adjustable.

Frame generation comes in multiple flavors, depending on your GPU:

  • DLSS Frame Generation: NVIDIA 40-series and above
  • DLSS Multi-Frame Generation: NVIDIA 50-series (requires driver 595.97 or newer)
  • FSR3 Frame Generation: NVIDIA 20-series or higher (with RT Cores)
  • FSR4 Frame Generation: AMD Radeon RX 7000/9000 series (requires Windows 11)

Before enabling frame generation, go to Windows System → Display → Graphics → Hardware-Accelerated GPU Scheduling, turn it On, and restart your PC. Then in-game, navigate to Options → Graphics → Advanced → Frame Generation and select either DLSS or FSR mode. For the best experience, disable V-Sync and set the FPS cap to Unlimited or 60. If you notice stuttering, double-check that HAGS is enabled.

Driver Recommendations

To avoid visual glitches or poor performance, update your GPU drivers. For NVIDIA, use version 591.86 (released 2026-01-27) or newer; 50-series owners should install version 595.97 to enable Multi-Frame Generation. AMD users should update to version 26.6.1 (released 2026-06-02) or later. Drivers can be downloaded from the official NVIDIA and AMD driver portals.

Final Thoughts

Zenless Zone Zero's V3.0 update marks a significant leap in PC visual fidelity, bringing features that were previously the domain of triple-A shooters and open-world titles. Whether you are a performance seeker or a visuals enthusiast, the new options allow you to tailor the experience to your hardware. Keep an eye on official announcements for future GPU support additions.