How to make Stalker 2 load shader compilation faster

Shader compilation in Stalker 2, is a process that ensures smoother gameplay by pre-building shaders. This eliminates in-game stutters and hitching caused by real-time shader generation. On the first launch, the game performs a full shader compilation, which can take a lot of time, depending on the PC's specifications.

Players with high-end systems may get shorter wait times, while those meeting minimum requirements might have to sit for a while when the game loads shaders. Moreover, minor shader compilations may happen every time you launch the game if the shader cache size is insufficient or there are new updates to the game or GPU drivers.

If you are struggling with the long load shader compilation in Stalker 2 screens, then using the following methods you can shorten the wait times.

Disclaimer: These methods can reduce the load shader compilation wait times, but in some instances, they can also damage the game files, so use them cautiously.

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Make Stalker 2 load shader compilation faster using these methods

Methods to optimize the cache to make the load time shorter. (Image via GSC Game World)

To reduce shader compilation delays, ensure the game is installed on an SSD instead of an HDD, as SSDs drastically improve read and write speeds. Additionally, lowering in-game graphics settings, including disabling VSync, on the first launch can help free up GPU resources. Check that your PC meets the minimum or recommended system requirements for Stalker 2.

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Adjusting shader cache settings to improve load times

For Nvidia users

To optimize shader compilation, open the Nvidia Control Panel and go to Manage 3D Settings. Adjust the Shader Cache Size setting:

• Set it to Driver Default or increase it to 5GB, 10GB, or 100GB, depending on your storage capacity.
• For an unlimited shader cache, ensure that at least 2TB of free storage is available on your game installation drive.

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For AMD Users

AMD users should open AMD Software, navigate to the Gaming tab, and select Global Graphics. Make sure the Shader Cache setting is enabled and set to AMD Optimized for the best performance.

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How to turn off shader compilation on launch in Stalker 2

Turning off the shader compilation on startup (Image via GSC Game World)

If shader compilation occurs on every launch, you can disable it to speed up loading times. Press WIN + G to open the Run window, type AppData, and hit Enter. Navigate to Local > Stalker2 > Saved > Config. Inside this directory:

1) Steam Users should open the Windows folder, while Xbox Game Pass Users should open WinGDK.

2) Create a file named Engine.ini and paste the following lines:

• [SystemSettings]
• r.PSOWarmup.WarmupMaterials=0

3) Save and close the file.

This skips shader compilation at launch, allowing you to access the main menu faster. However, it is recommended that shader compilation be re-enabled after GPU driver or game updates by deleting these lines or setting r.MaterialWarmupMode back to 1.