PC Performance Guide: Shader Optimization & Best Settings for Marvel Rivals Season 3.5

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Fix stuttering, optimize shaders, and tweak GPU settings for a smoother competitive edge

If you’ve been grinding Marvel Rivals Season 3.5 only to be betrayed by sudden stutters or frame drops at the worst possible time—say, mid-ult—you’re not alone. The game’s visual flair and fast-paced combat can push even decent rigs to their limits, especially with shader compilation hitches and GPU load spikes.

The good news? Between official NetEase improvements and clever community fixes, we now have a solid playbook for smooth, consistent performance—whether you’re chasing ranked glory or just want a less rage-inducing frame rate.

Marvel Rivals Season 3.5 PC Performance Guide
1. Official Season 3.5 Improvements

Background Shader Preloading

The latest patch introduced background shader loading—shaders now compile behind the scenes rather than mid-match. This helps reduce the infamous “first fight lag,” but here’s the catch: if you rush into a match before the preload finishes, expect a hitch or two.

Tip: After launching the game, wait 30–60 seconds in the lobby before queueing to let preloading complete.

2. Experimental Switch Shader Compilation Mode

First tested earlier this year, this feature compiles shaders only during the first load, freeing up memory and avoiding constant stutter mid-game.

  • Pros: Big boost for mid-tier GPUs.

  • Cons: Slight hiccups early in a match.

  • Warning: Can conflict with AMD FSR3 on CPUs with ≤ 6 threads.

3. Community-Proven Fixes

Straight from Reddit threads and Steam Council discussions:

  • Clear GPU Shader Cache

    • Nvidia: %LocalAppData%\NVIDIA\DXCache

    • AMD: Clear via Radeon Software → Settings → Storage.
      (Source: Steam Thread)

  • Disable Control Flow Guard (CFG) for Marvel Rivals

    • Navigate to Windows Security > App & Browser Control > Exploit Protection Settings > Program Settings.

    • Add MarvelRivals.exe and disable CFG.
      (Source: Steam User Guide)

  • Rollback Nvidia Driver to 561.09

    • Some players report smoother frames compared to latest drivers.

4. GPU-Specific Settings

  • Windows High Performance GPU Mode:
    Settings → Display → Graphics → Marvel Rivals → Set to High Performance.

  • Disable Hardware-Accelerated GPU Scheduling:
    Windows Settings → System → Display → Graphics → Default Settings.

  • Cap FPS to 60 or your monitor’s refresh rate using Nvidia Control Panel or AMD Adrenalin.

5. Quick Optimization Table

FixEffectivenessNotes
Background shader preloadModerate — reduces stutterWait before queueing
Switch Shader ModeHigh — smooths matchesMay conflict with FSR3 on low cores
Clear Shader CacheHigh — fixes repeat hitchingDelete old cache files
Disable CFGHigh — major improvementAdjust via Windows exploit settings
Rollback Driver 561.09Moderate — helps some GPUsTest stability before sticking
Disable GPU SchedulingModerate — reduces dropsCan improve frame pacing
High Perf GPU ModeModerate — steadier FPSForces discrete GPU use

6. Community Voices

“Removing Control Flow Guard and the game runs perfectly. Should be pinned.” — Steam user Creus
“Deleting the shader cache manually made the game buttery smooth.” — Steam user Xfinity

7. Final Thoughts

Smooth gameplay isn’t just about visuals—it’s about performance giving you the split-second edge to win fights. Season 3.5’s official optimizations are a good start, but pairing them with community tweaks can transform Marvel Rivals from a stuttery mess to a silky arena brawler.

Your move: Try these fixes, share your PC specs and results in the comments, and help refine the ultimate performance guide for the community.  

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