Updated at: 09-06-2022 - By: Leo Hall

In this article, we’ll examine SLI and discuss which games benefit the most from Nvidia’s SLI engine.

The first step is to define SLI and assess its applicability in today’s gaming environment.

To get the most out of this technology, you’ll need to know which games will shine the most when it’s used in conjunction with your current setup.

Before we get started, let’s talk about the advantages of SLI.

Sections and Subsections Show

Why Is SLI Important?

An Nvidia-created graphics card scaling engine called SLI, or Scalable Link Interface, is known as SLI. Allows for the use of several GPUs on a single computer The rendering of real-time graphics is shared over numerous GPUs, resulting in a single output.

NVLink vs. SLI and Multiple GPUs - Is it worth it?

3dfx first created the technique in the late 1990s. This is because Nvidia purchased 3dfx and so took ownership of the technology. When Nvidia re-engineered SLI in 2004, it became what we see in most recent Nvidia graphics cards.

Up to four GPUs can be connected to SLI at once (2-Way SLI, 3-Way SLI, 4-Way SLI). Consumers, on the other hand, tend to limit their usage of the technology to no more than two devices at any given time.

With many GPUs working in parallel, each taking an equal portion of the burden, the aim is to boost the machine’s rendering capacity and hence improve the performance of games, especially in regards to FPS, shadows, lighting and texturing quality.

Multi-GPU SLI requires PCI-Express slots and the SLI Bridge connector to connect multiple units of the same GPU.

A “master” GPU receives all of the final renderings from each of the other GPUs and assembles them into a single output. The graphics driver distributes the workload and chooses which card has the highest priority for rendering.

There are two rendering phases in the SLI framework. Alternate Frame Rendering (AFR) and SLI Antialiasing (SLIAA) are two examples of this (SLI AA).

As much as feasible is rendered by the GPUs without any overlap in AFR, which aims to improve overall performance. Each GPU is given a set number of frames to work on, and they do it independently. For example, the first GPU handles frames 1-10, while the second GPU handles frames 11-20 and so on.

When it comes to antialiasing in SLI, it’s all about delivering the best possible visual experience possible, even if it means sacrificing some performance in the process.

Antialiasing tasks are distributed among the GPUs based on the similarity of the input frames. When it comes to sub-pixel sampling, the burden is split between the GPUs, but the combined output is a more appealing image because of how the points in the frame are spread out.

Is SLI Still Relevant?

To keep up with the ever-increasing demands of modern games, particularly AAA titles, SLI technology has advanced tremendously since 2004.

As far as Nvidia is concerned, SLI is still a big part of their product range, including the RTX series, which promises SLI transfer capacity that’s up to 50 times more than prior technologies thanks to the SLI NV-Link Bridge.

When it comes to video game creators, SLI’s relevance begins to wane. With the delivery of purpose-built patches from developers and precise driver adjustments from Nvidia, SLI compatibility for a game can be painstakingly implemented.

Until the previously mentioned patches and drivers are updated and a stable SLI profile is produced, a AAA title will often have poor SLI performance at launch. It’s at this stage that technology truly shines and significantly enhances gaming experiences.

Users of SLI initially endure some discomfort, but the long-term benefits far outweigh this initial discomfort. For games that are a year or two old and support SLI, the performance is better across the board (20%-40% range, generally), other than a few exceptions and variations in how much improvement the tech contributes.

As a proprietary technology, Nvidia sees SLI as a worthwhile investment for years to come, as more GPUs are sold, resulting in an increase in annual earnings.

As strong single GPUs like GTX and the RTX line have emerged, the necessity for multiple GPUs is becoming less and less obvious.

It’s becoming increasingly difficult for developers to devote resources to SLI compatibility when the vast majority of gamers either shift to or continue with a single-GPU configuration.

To enable SLI, a rendering engine must use complex rendering algorithms. Bugs and patches that affect the vast majority of gamers are often more important to a developer than optimizing SLI. As a result of these factors, the developers’ enthusiasm for SLI support has waned.

SLI is also the GPU technology of choice for enthusiasts who like to play around with their computers and experiment with new ideas. Nvidia’s and third-party developers’ SLI profiles work effectively in most situations. The in-game graphical parameters, on the other hand, are often tweaked before achieving the best performance.

When the Nvidia 900 series was hot in 2015-2016, SLI support was at its peak, according to some. SLI was a lot more accessible back then because of the relatively low cost of these GPUs.

As the GPU market enters a new phase, SLI might either fade into obscurity or continue to be a sought-after technology.

In other words, if you’re a fan of older games like World of Warcraft and can get your hands on two GTX 980 or GTX 970 graphics cards, SLI is a solid option for you.

Best Games That Support SLI

There are a wide variety of games that support SLI, and many of them perform exceptionally well. These games benefit greatly from SLI, particularly at higher resolutions, such as 4K.

Let’s take a look at some of the greatest SLI-optimized games out there today. As a result of the diminishing support for SLI, many of the games on this list aren’t what you’d consider “fresh” titles.

Modern blockbusters like Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 have dedicated profiles for SLI, yet the performance is still lacking. Compared to using a single card, gamers complain of stutters, frame loss, and an overall more jerky experience.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

The timeless action-adventure RPG epic from CD Projekt Red belongs among the distinguished alumni of the best games ever, and for good reason.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt - Official Gameplay (35 min) - YouTube

When it comes to Geralt’s harrowing quest to find his long-lost adoptive daughter, Ciri, in a vivid fantasy world filled with fantastical creatures and creatures of myth, only the story’s brilliance can match the emotional impact of the character’s journey.

The irreverent humor, colorful cast of characters, a slew of possible outcomes, and the game’s high level of combat all combine to create an engrossing and engaging experience.

Grand Theft Auto V

Grand Theft Auto V, Rockstar’s long-running gangster simulator franchise, took a new turn.

Los Santos and the surrounding area are rife with opportunities for illicit activity because of the game’s design.

Additionally, the game’s three-pronged hero gameplay is a unique addition, and it wonderfully complements the story’s depiction of the unraveling of three men as they strive for wealth and meaning in what is a notorious hotbed of fraudsters.

Far Cry 5

All of Far Cry 5 is about rescuing Montana from the clutches of a lunatic-led cult of doomsday prophets. Isn’t that great?

Factions, a colorful armory of weapons, and a large open environment make Far Cry 5 one of the greatest in the series.

The irreverence of one of Ubisoft’s most popular franchises can’t be matched by any other RPG or action-adventure. On top of all that, it’s a gorgeous game that’s ideal for SLI scaling.

PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds

When it comes to the battle royale genre, PUBG — or PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds, as it’s more often known — is the game that started it all off and has since taken gaming by storm.

It’s still the most realistic BR game, despite Fortnite’s dominance, and it’s one of Steam’s most popular downloads.

Dark Souls III

With a rising tide of undead creatures sweeping over a fantasy medieval world, Dark Souls III, the final chapter in a trilogy regarded for being among the most demanding gaming experiences, is an action RPG.

As you fight to save the world from the approaching abyss of darkness, you will die over and over again. Changing attack patterns help enemies stay on their toes and become more cunning and adaptable.

Iconic and unforgiving, Dark Souls III is a must-play for any gamer.

Fallout 4

Despite the focus on Bethesda’s first attempt at survival multiplayer with Fallout 76, Fallout 4 is still the most current entry in the Fallout series for the single-player experience.

In a world rife with nuclear-induced aberrations as horrific as the next, players can explore the rich lore that permeates the series at their own pace.

RPG features are back and better than ever in the franchise. With your purchase, you get a dog as an additional companion.

Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain

Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, the latest Kojima-made MGS game, is a fitting ode to Snake’s covert escapades over the past two decades.

Players in this game land in faraway Afghanistan and Angola, where they must defend themselves against a variety of colorful foes. This game takes place before many of the events in the preceding games.

Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain is a worthy recipient of the high accolades heaped on it by critics from all walks of life.

League of Legends

League of Legends, Dota 2’s jovial younger sibling, is a global sensation with over 60 million unique monthly players worldwide.

It’s impossible to argue with the ease with which League of Legends can be picked up and enjoyed by the world’s largest eSports scene.

League isn’t the most difficult MOBA out there, but the numbers don’t lie, and the game’s constant influx of new heroes keeps things interesting.

Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag

It’s safe to say that not everyone is a fan of the Assassin’s Creed series, especially when Ubisoft releases yearly editions with minimal innovation, save from Origins and Odyssey.

As a result, Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag stands out in a mediocre field. Black Flag’s naval combat and piracy are the highlights of the game.

As a result, games like Sea of Thieves and Skull & Bones have a lot in common with each other and follow a similar path.

World of Warcraft

This is the best MMORPG of all time. In a fantasy universe overflowing with Warcraft lore and depth, there is more content than you could ever hope for, including PvP, PvE, and a massive realm.

New Battle For Azeroth DLC brings new vitality to a game that still attracts thousands of players every day, despite the fact that it is showing its age.

While most modern graphics cards can run World of Warcraft without issue, SLI was a terrific opportunity to show off Blizzard’s most ambitious game to date.

Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege

One of the best first-person shooter games on the market, Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege is a multiplayer-only experience.

Rainbow Six Siege Standard Edition | Download and Buy Today - Epic Games Store

There are few eSports games that are as thrilling to watch as Dota 2. The realism is also worth mentioning: if you make a single mistake, you’ll be dead in a flash.

Diablo III

Isometric hack and slash RPG World of Warcraft has been updated in a way that pays tribute to the original two games launched around the turn of the century.

Co-op play is even better than single-player because to the improved graphics, iconic classes, and a landscape filled with colourful opponents that can be explored for hours at a time.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

No one needs to be introduced to Skyrim. In spite of all the criticism, no one can deny that Bethesda is capable of creating an outstanding open-world role-playing game.

Outriders (PlayStation 4)

Developed by Square Enix and People Can Fly, the game will be released on February 2nd, 2021. SLI is supported.

An original, dark sci-fi universe is the setting for this 1 to 3 person RPG shooting game, titled Outriders. Create your own outrider and set out on a perilous adventure across a dangerous planet in this riveting game.

In addition, the game’s storyline is filled with surprising turns and turns after turns. A series of shanty towns, mountains, and deserts await you on the way out of the beginning of your adventure.

Intense gunplay and powerful abilities make the game a joy to experience. As a result, you’ll be able to play for a long time.

Halo Infinite

Dec. 31, 2021; 343 Industries; First-person Shooter; SLI Supported Release Date

As you may know, Halo Infinite is set to be the most anticipated game of the year in 2021. It’s SLI-ready. 343 Industries developed this first-person shooting game.

Developed by Xbox Game Studios, it is expected to be released for both Windows and Xbox One.

The Halo Infinite is the sixth installment in the series, not the first. Master Chief’s journey continues in this installment.

In Halo infinite, Master Chief returns to face the greatest challenge yet and save humanity, according to the developers. Master Chief is given a more prominent role in this game than in the previous series.

Little Nightmares II

In February 2021, the game will be released by Tarsier Studios, a developer of puzzle-platformers and survival horror games. SLI will be supported.

Incredible, suspense-adventure and enjoyable, Little Nightmares 2 is a fantastic game. A new character, Mono, will be introduced alongside Six, the protagonist of the original Little Nightmares.

When a bizarre transmission from a signal tower throws the world into turmoil, a young kid named Mono is left all alone. Mono and Six are on a mission to uncover the mysteries of this strange tower in order to save their city.

However, with the numerous hazards and traps that lie ahead, this expedition may prove to be anything but straightforward. Simply said, this is an action-packed, suspenseful game that will keep you engrossed for hours on end.

Hitman 3

SLI Supported | Developer: IO interactive | Release Date: January 20th, 2021

In January 2021, a stealth game called Hitman 3 will be launched. The eighth game in the Hitman series will be released with this release. Third and last chapter of World Of Assassination Trilogy included.

As a bonus, it will work with previous SLI profiles, which is sure to excite a large number of players. Players assume the role of Agent 47 and traverse the world to carry out assassinations in this third-person shooter.

Six new destinations, including Dubai, Berlin, and Dartmoor, will be included in the game.

Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time Remake

Developed by Ubisoft, the action-adventure title will be released on March 18th, 2021.

Ubisoft developed an action-adventure game that players will like. The release date for this third-person game is March 18, 2021.

Prince of Persia is your character in the game. To add insult to injury, you must embark on a voyage that will save your kingdom and avert its destruction.

Your blade has the potential to halt, reverse, or speed up time, so you must learn how to control the sands of time. The visuals of the game have been given a dramatic upgrade. This game is compatible with SLI, unlike some of the upcoming newer titles.

Returnal

A third-person shooter with SLI support will be released on March 19, 2021, by Housemarque.

Returnal will certainly come to mind if you enjoy playing shooter games. Science fiction and psychological horror are two of the genres that this game falls under.

Remarkable visual effects follow the deteriorating environment in this film. In addition, the game’s aggressive action, fierce fighting, amazing sights, and stunning sound effects ensure that you will play it a lot more than you expect.

DEATH LOOP Standard Edition

Action-adventure developed by Arkane Studios with a release date of May 21st, 2021 with support for SLI graphics cards.

That being said, the Deathloop is an exhilarating shooter game that is sure to have your pulse racing. The player assumes the role of Colt, an assassin who wakes up on a beach on the island of Blackreef after being trapped in a time loop.

In order to commemorate their investments, the people of Blackreef decide to host a party, and it seems to last for ever.

The island is reset at the conclusion of the celebration. In a temporal loop, the celebration begins anew after that. Your character, Colt, will be able to retain the memories of the previous loop, unlike everyone else on the island. You have till midnight to complete eight tasks, otherwise the time clock resets and you begin the process over again.

Far Cry 6 Gold Steelbook Edition

Ubisoft Toronto’s first-person shooter will be released on December 31st, 2021.

In 2021, the Far Cry 6 video game will be released. Furthermore, it is a first-person shooter developed by Ubisoft. ” This is Far Cry’s sixth installment.

Far Cry 6 GOLD SteelBook Edition | JB Hi-Fi

Starting on the mythical island of Yar, the game takes place in the world of Yara. In this game, the tyrant Anton Castillo, also known as “El Presidente,” is in charge of this island.

To play the part of Dani Rojas, a guerilla leader fighting the dictator’s regime, you would assume his identity as a character in the game.

Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2

SLI-compatible action role-playing game scheduled for March 31st, 2021 release by Hardsuit Labs.

Choosing Vampire – The Masquerade: Bloodlines 2 if you enjoy immersing yourself in the game’s scenarios is a good choice. If you like to escape into a fantastical world, then this is the game for you.

You’ll never get bored thanks to the game’s gorgeous aesthetics and engaging characters.

First-person and third-person modes are available in this game. So, in 2021, keep an eye out for this one. Set to go live in 2021, it’s compatible with the SLI standard.

Dying Light 2

The game will be released on December 31, 2021, by Techland, a developer of action role-playing games.

Dying Light 2 immerses you in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies. If you’re a fan of the undead, you’ll enjoy this game.

Alden Caldwell, the game’s protagonist, has a wide range of abilities. Even more so, the game has numerous scenarios and allows players to undertake a wide range of actions, such as scaling ledges.

Techland was both the studio responsible for creating and releasing the game. In 2021, it will be available.

Riders Republic

Developed by Ubisoft and released on February 25th, 2021, the game is categorized as a sports game and is SLI-compatible.

There will be up to 50 players participating in The Riders Republic, making it one of the largest multi-player games ever.

This racing game is a little different from the rest because it allows you to personalize your character’s appearance. In 2021, you’ll be able to play a full-scale racing game.

Pre-ordering the game today will get you a Bunny Pack. Snowboard graphics and bunny clothes are just two of the many extras included in this bundle.

Destruction AllStars

This is a vehicular combat-themed video game that will be released on December 31st, 2021 by Lucid gaming.

This is a vehicle-based video game. It’s just a game about crashing automobiles together. Each of the 16 Allstar drivers has access to a different set of automobiles.

One of the stars, Hana, for example, drives a car that can halve the opponents’ health. So, your goal is to get through the chaos and emerge unhurt from the situation.

When your automobile breaks down, you’ll have to make your way about on foot, which is far more risky than if you were driving.

Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga Deluxe Edition

Developed by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and released on December 31st, 2021, the action-adventure title is SLI-compatible.

It’s one of the best action-adventure games coming out soon. Any episode of The Skywalker Saga can be used to begin this game.

Almost 500 characters are included in the game, which is enough to keep things interesting.

Mass Effect Legendary Edition

It will be released on December 31, 2021; the developer is Bioware; it is action-role playing; it is SLI compatible.

Legendary Edition is the first game of a series. It’s clear that Bioware’s devs are on the cusp of something enormous with this game.

The release date for this game is set for 2021, and it’s expected to be fantastic. The developer insists that this game is not intended to be a remake of the original.

Their goal is to improve the realism of the gaming experience. So that they can have a better experience.

Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege

Ubisoft is the studio behind this tactical shooter, which is due out on December 1st, 2020.

Developed by Ubisoft, this is a tactical shooter game that can be played online. In 2015, it was released for the first time. This game emphasizes devastation while also promoting teamwork amongst the players.

In various game scenarios, each participant assumes the position of either an attacker or a defender. You may play it online, but there are some offline assignments as well.

Atelier Ryza 2: Lost Legends & The Secret Fairy

The game will be available on January 26th, 2021, from Gust, in the RPG genre, and it is compatible with SLI.

This is the first time in the Atelier series that a character has played the role of a hero in two successive games, and Ryza is the protagonist in this one.

Ryza’s voyage to the Royal Capital is the main focus of this game. During her journey, she will visit a number of old ruins, searching for the truth and uncovering the mysteries of the long-forgotten legends.

PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch versions of the game will be released at the same time.

18. SCARLET NEXUS

Action RPG from Bandai Namco Studios due out on December 31st, 2021, with support for SLI graphics cards.

In the past, you may have played several war games. Suppose you were to play the part of a fictional figure in order to safeguard an entire future landscape?

You can do so by visiting a fictional city named New Himuka in this game. You’ll have a blast exploring and protecting this metropolis with the use of weapons and defenses that aren’t visible to the naked eye.

The PS4 version of the game may be easily upgraded to the PS5 version without the need to input a disc at all.

Guilty Gear -Strive

Arc System Works’ action-adventure video game will be released on April 9th, 2021.

Buy GUILTY GEAR Xrd -REVELATOR- (+DLC Characters) + REV 2 All-in-One (does not include optional DLCs) Steam Key GLOBAL - Cheap - G2A.COM!

The Guilty Gear series has a new entry. Here’s your chance to live with your favorite anime characters.

To keep things fresh, the game’s creators threw in a slew of new characters. In addition, the game’s soundtrack will feature rock music. All of these efforts have the potential to make this game a lot more engaging and entertaining.

Cris Tales

March 31st, 2021; Dreams Unincorporated and Syck; RPG genre; SLI-compliant

Cris Tales, an upcoming role-playing game, was originally scheduled for release in November 2020 but was later postponed. On a journey across Crystallis and the other four kingdoms, Crisbell is the protagonist.

For him, it’s about changing the future of his world by defeating the Time Queen. Crisbell, on the other hand, will meet new allies and form alliances with them as she moves on on her trip.

Chivalry 2

Torn Banner Studios is the studio behind this first-person slasher, which will be released on the 31st of December, 2021.

In Chivalry: Medieval Warfare, players assume the role of a knight. It’s a massively cooperative first-person shooter with a medieval theme.

This game’s spectacular presentation and stunning graphic effects may pique your curiosity. So, in 2021, get ready to experience spectacular battles in this game.

The Witcher Wild Hunt Complete Edition

The 30th of August, 2016 was designated as the release date for this action role-playing game from CO Project Red.

Open-world gameplay provides a never-ending source of entertainment. In this game, you play as a monster slayer tasked with rescuing the lives of innocents while also defeating a variety of bizarre animals and critters. The future of a large number of people depends on your success.

It is safe to say, then, that this game will transform you into a hero. This game, like the last one, is a lot of fun. As a result, you’ll be able to play it in 2021.

Grand Theft Auto V

Grand Theft Auto V

Developed by Rockstar Games; released on April 14th, 2015; genre is action-adventure; SLI-compliant.

Despite its lack of eye-catching visuals, this game nonetheless manages to make it onto lists of the most popular games. They have a reputation in the gaming industry since they use cutting-edge technology to create their games.

The SLI technology makes GTA V run incredibly smoothly.

Crysis 3

It was released on February 19th, 2013 by Crytek and is a first-person shooter with support for SLI.

Crysis was a big reason why many gamers upgraded their graphics cards in 2014 or earlier. This is evidence of the game’s enduring appeal.

Crysis has long been the leader in computer graphics development. In addition, with each new release, the graphics and overall presentation have improved. Crysis 3 is a great first-person shooter for anyone who enjoys them.

Notable Mentions

  • The Division by Tom Clancy
  • The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey
  • Tomb Raider: Reign of Chaos
  • “Batman: The Animated Series”
  • Injustice: Gods Among Us
  • Combat Evolved: Black Ops 2
  • Warframe
  • “Starcraft II”

In the sequel to Borderlands,

  • In Battlefield 3,
  • the third installment in the Age of Empires series
  • Away from the realm of good and evil
  • Bioshock
  • Civilization V: A New Frontier
  • The Tiberium Wars in Command & Conquer 3
  • “Dead Space” is a reference to
  • Dishonored
  • The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
  • A Fable in Peril: The Disappeared Chapters
  • The third installment of the Fallout series
  • Fantasy XII
  • Gears of War 2
  • A Reasonable Doubt
  • Exile’s Highway
  • Rage
  • Raccoon City
  • The third installment of the Silent Hill series
  • Tropico 3 is the sequel to Tropico 2.
  • Keep an eye out for your pets
  • Extinction: The Unknown
  • Invasion of the XCOMs

FAQS:

Do All Games Support SLI?

SLI is the most important factor in determining the quality of a game’s graphics. To put it another way, it enhances the game’s aesthetic appeal. SLI is supported by most games as of this writing. However, it’s always best to double-check with the developer or do some digging on forums to see if a specific game makes use of it.

Can I Expect the Existence of SLI in the Near Future?

The truth is that Nvidia has opted to halt the rollout of new SLI profiles, which implies that existing SLI profiles will continue to operate. Nvidia’s move will have no effect on your present SLI configurations technically. It simply implies that new profiles will no longer be created. As a result, you don’t have to worry. You may not be able to play some of the most recent games because your SLI profiles are outdated. Some new games, however, will still support SLI. Moreover, this article explains those games in detail so that you may play them, too.

Conclusion:

In spite of Nvidia’s decision to halt new SLI projects, gamers may still expect to enjoy games in 2021 with their present SLI configuration. All you need to do now is track out the games that are backwards compatible. The 26 best games for SLI may be found in the list above.