The NVIDIA DGX Spark system, known for its AI capabilities, is proving itself as a formidable gaming machine. Users have been exploring the gaming potential of this tiny powerhouse, particularly in graphically demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077. Thanks to DLSS 4 MFG, the performance boost is significant, making the DGX Spark an exciting option for gamers looking for robust gaming experiences on a Mini PC.
NVIDIA DGX Spark: A Surprise Contender in Gaming
NVIDIA’s DGX Spark Mini PCs, often described as compact AI supercomputers, have reshaped the company’s approach to desktop-grade systems. Initially designed for AI workloads, these mini PCs are now being tested for gaming performance. With a variety of systems available from multiple OEMs, prices start at $3,144, offering an affordable alternative to the usual $4000 price point. Central to each system is the GB10 Superchip, which includes 20 ARM cores and a Blackwell GPU boasting 6144 cores, supported by 128 GB LPDDR5X memory. Despite thermal and power constraints, this design holds promise for both AI and gaming tasks.
Unlocking Gaming Potential on DGX Spark
Running games on the DGX Spark involves navigating its DGX OS, with ARM and Linux requiring emulation layers for smooth gameplay. However, NVIDIA has simplified the process with a guide to running Cyberpunk 2077, utilizing DLSS 4, Ray Tracing, and Multi-Frame Generation (MFG). This configuration allows the DGX Spark to achieve impressive gaming results, surpassing previous limitations by delivering over 175 FPS in Cyberpunk 2077 with high settings and Ultra Ray Tracing. This marks a significant improvement from earlier attempts which yielded 50 FPS.
In comparison, the AMD Strix Halo SoC achieves around 90 FPS under the same conditions but without ray tracing. The DGX Spark’s capability to maintain higher framerates with ray tracing and DLSS enabled highlights its superior performance against similar AI/Halo systems.
As the DGX Spark evolves, expectations are high for better optimizations that will enhance both AI and gaming applications. The potential for improved GPU utilization suggests a promising future for NVIDIA’s innovative Mini PC in the gaming landscape.