JagsFPS has released a complete performance and latency optimization guide for Marvel Rivals season 3, showing players how to get the smoothest experience possible — whether you’re on a high-end rig chasing 400+ FPS or running the game on a low-spec system or Steam Deck.

Native vs config file optimization

The guide begins with a side-by-side look at 1440p low in-game settings versus a custom optimized config file:

  • Optimized config turns off global illumination probes, disables volumetric fog, and reduces distant LOD resolution for a big GPU performance boost.
  • Pairing this with DLSS Transformer Model in performance mode improves both FPS and image quality.
  • A “potato” config is also included for struggling PCs, trading visuals for maximum playability.

Jags warns that while the potato config looks dated, it’s the only way to make the game playable on very low-end hardware or portable systems.

Essential software

Jags recommends three tools:

  1. Nvidia App – Updates DLSS from 3.5 to DLSS 4 Transformer Model for sharper visuals and better performance.
  2. Custom config files – Available via his Google Drive for both optimized and potato modes.
  3. VibranceGUI – Adjusts digital vibrance on a per-game basis without the performance penalty of Nvidia Filters.

Windows tweaks

Before launching the game:

  • Enable Game Mode in Windows to prioritize the game process.
  • Add Marvel Rivals to Graphics settings and set it to High Performance on your dedicated GPU.
  • Enable Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling, Variable Refresh Rate, and Optimizations for Windowed Games for reduced input lag.

Nvidia control panel settings

Key settings include:

  • Low Latency Mode: On + Ultra (for games without Nvidia Reflex).
  • G-Sync + V-Sync: Enabled for tear-free gameplay with minimal latency.
  • Power Management Mode: Keep default globally; use Prefer Maximum Performance only per-game.
  • Shader Cache Size: Set to 10GB, 100GB, or unlimited depending on storage space.

Config file installation

  1. Open the Run dialog → type %localappdata%.
  2. Navigate to Marvel\Saved\Config\Windows.
  3. Replace the Scalability.ini with the chosen config (optimized or potato).

In-game settings

  • Display Mode: Borderless Windowed or Fullscreen (thanks to Windows optimizations).
  • Upscaling: DLSS Transformer Model on Performance.
  • Sharpening: 100.
  • Reflex Low Latency: On.
  • Frame Cap: Match your system’s average FPS from the built-in benchmark for the best CPU/GPU sync and lowest input lag.
  • VFX Details: Keep High if you want to see escape ability trails (Hela, Wanda).

Image quality comparison

In testing, DLSS 4 Transformer Model delivered:

  • Sharper edges and textures.
  • Reduced flickering and ghosting compared to Epic TSR, FSR, and XeSS.
  • The poorest quality came from TAAU, which Jags says to avoid entirely.

DLSS 4 installation

In the Nvidia App:

  1. Go to Settings → Games & Apps → View and Modify.
  2. Add your Marvel Rivals install folder.
  3. Select Marvel Rivals → Scroll to DLSS Override Model Presets.
  4. Set Super Resolution to Latest and apply.

VibranceGUI setup

  • Run VibranceGUI and set Auto Start + Affect Primary Monitor Only.
  • Add Marvel Rivals and set vibrance (Jags prefers +10% on OLED).
  • This adds saturation without affecting desktop apps or causing filter-related performance hits.

Final recommendations

From Jags’ tests:

  • Optimized config: Best balance between visuals and FPS — recommended for most players.
  • Potato config: For laptops, Steam Deck, or low-spec PCs struggling to maintain playable framerates.
  • Native low settings: Usable, but leaves performance gains untapped.

CPU-bound players won’t see massive improvements due to engine limitations, but GPU-bound players can see big gains.

You can watch the full tutorial and download the config files from JagsFPS’ video here.

Common questions

Q: Does DLSS 4 really make a difference over DLSS 3.5?
A: Yes — it improves sharpness, background detail, and motion clarity.

Q: Will the potato config hurt visibility?
A: It lowers visual fidelity, but keeps enemy silhouettes clear for competitive play.

Q: Is frame generation worth enabling?
A: Jags advises it only for single-player — keep it off for competitive multiplayer to avoid latency issues.

Q: What’s the easiest single tweak for most FPS gain?
A: Switching to the optimized config with DLSS 4 Transformer Model on performance mode.