Frustrated by lengthy game loading screens? Direct storage technology is finally changing how modern games load, slashing wait times and creating near-instantaneous gaming experiences. Rather than relying on outdated loading methods that bottleneck your system, this revolutionary API enables games to transfer data directly from your NVMe SSD to your GPU with minimal CPU involvement. Consequently, open-world games with massive textures and detailed environments can now load in seconds instead of minutes.
DirectStorage achieves this speed boost by streamlining the data path between storage and graphics memory, especially when paired with GPU-based decompression techniques. This technology represents the most significant advancement in PC game loading since the shift from hard drives to SSDs. Throughout this article, we'll explore how DirectStorage works, what hardware you need to take advantage of it, how to enable it on your system, and which games currently support this game-changing feature.
What Is DirectStorage and Why It Matters
Microsoft's DirectStorage represents a fundamental shift in how games handle data transfer between storage devices and graphics cards. Unlike conventional methods, this technology removes the traditional bottlenecks that slow down game loading and limit visual fidelity. DirectStorage stands out as a solution specifically designed to maximize the performance potential of modern gaming hardware.
Traditional Game Loading vs DirectStorage Pipeline
Game loading has historically followed a convoluted path. In conventional systems, compressed game assets travel from storage to system RAM, where the CPU handles decompression before finally transferring the data to the GPU's video memory (VRAM) for rendering. This process creates multiple bottlenecks, particularly at the CPU level, which must handle decompression alongside other critical gaming tasks like physics and AI calculations.
DirectStorage fundamentally reimagines this workflow. Instead of routing everything through the CPU, DirectStorage creates a more direct path for data:
- Compressed data moves from the NVMe SSD to the GPU
- The GPU handles decompression (previously a CPU task)
- Decompressed data remains in VRAM, ready for immediate rendering
This streamlined approach yields remarkable benefits. Microsoft reports that DirectStorage implementation can improve game load times by 20-40%. In practical demonstrations, scenes that took 2.36 seconds to load with traditional methods loaded in just 0.8 seconds with DirectStorage—a nearly 3x improvement.
Additionally, the CPU workload reduction is substantial. DirectStorage's design goal allows for handling up to 50,000 I/O operations per second while using just 5-10% of a single CPU core. This frees up processing power for other gaming tasks like complex AI, physics simulations, or higher frame rates.
Role of NVMe SSDs in Reducing Load Times
NVMe SSDs form the foundation of DirectStorage's performance advantages. These drives connect directly to the PCIe bus, offering dramatically higher bandwidth than older storage technologies. Modern PCIe Gen4 NVMe drives can deliver up to 7 GB/s of raw data transfer, theoretically filling a high-end GPU's entire 24GB VRAM in about 3 seconds.
Furthermore, NVMe architecture supports multiple simultaneous data queues—up to 65,536 entries per queue according to specifications. DirectStorage leverages this capability by batching thousands of requests together, dramatically reducing overhead compared to traditional methods that process smaller chunks sequentially.
The minimum requirements for DirectStorage include:
- An NVMe SSD with at least 64GB storage
- PCIe Gen3 or Gen4 interface
- DirectX 12 compatible GPU with Shader Model 6.0 support
Though DirectStorage works best with the latest PCIe Gen4 drives, it still provides benefits with Gen3 NVMe SSDs. The technology optimizes for whatever bandwidth is available, making even older NVMe drives perform better than they would with traditional loading methods.
Moreover, DirectStorage provides "bandwidth amplification" through compression. While uncompressed data transfer might max out at around 3 GB/s on a Gen3 connection, compressed data effectively multiplies this throughput by its compression ratio, allowing effectively higher bandwidth than the raw hardware limits.
How DirectStorage Works Under the Hood
Beneath the surface of DirectStorage lies a sophisticated architecture that fundamentally changes how game data flows through your PC. This technical advancement restructures the entire pipeline for moving and decompressing game assets, allowing for dramatically faster load times and reduced CPU overhead.
CPU-Based Decompression Workflow
In traditional storage systems, loading game assets follows a convoluted path. Initially, compressed game data travels from the storage device to the PCIe bus, then to the CPU, into system RAM, back to the CPU for decompression, returned to RAM again, and finally through the PCIe bus once more to reach the GPU's VRAM. This circuitous route creates bottlenecks and inefficiencies.
During this conventional process, the CPU bears the burden of decompression—a task that consumes valuable processing power. For large open-world games with high-resolution textures, this creates a significant workload that takes away resources from other important game functions like physics calculations and AI processing.
GPU-Based Decompression with DirectStorage
DirectStorage transforms this approach by enabling the GPU to handle decompression tasks. When using DirectStorage 1.1 with GDeflate (a GPU-optimized compression format), the system can achieve throughput as high as 13 GB/s, compared to approximately 5.85 GB/s without compression acceleration.
The implementation works through several key mechanisms:
- DirectStorage creates a compute queue and two copy queues on the GPU
- The first copy queue transfers compressed data from system memory to the GPU
- The decompression occurs on the compute queue—either via a decompression metacommand or a DirectCompute implementation
- The second copy queue moves the decompressed data to its final destination in VRAM
This process uses batching, where multiple requests are grouped together to reduce CPU overhead. Each batch operates on streams divided into tiles, with each tile decompressing to 64 KiB of data. The DirectCompute implementation assigns each wave of processing to one tile and uses a work-stealing approach to efficiently process all tiles across multiple streams.
Data Transfer Path: SSD → RAM → GPU VRAM
Despite its name suggesting a direct path from storage to GPU, DirectStorage actually follows a structured route through system components. Compressed graphics data is transferred from the NVMe SSD to RAM and then to the GPU's VRAM, where decompression happens.
The staging buffer plays a crucial role in this process. DirectStorage uses this buffer to stage content read from storage before performing operations like decompression. Larger staging buffers (around 128 MiB) are recommended to fully saturate the I/O stack, as they allow for larger batches and minimize the "tail effect" that occurs when the GPU has less work to do toward the end of a batch.
Performance testing demonstrates the efficiency of this approach. When using GPU-accelerated GDeflate decompression, a system can deliver effective bandwidth that exceeds what's possible without compression—effectively multiplying data throughput by its compression ratio. In benchmark tests, a scene that took 0.33 seconds to load without DirectStorage loaded in just 0.08 seconds with it—a 4x improvement.
Notably, if a game detects that a system's CPU might be more efficient at decompression than its GPU, DirectStorage can fall back to CPU-based processing. This happens automatically when the request destination is system memory rather than a DirectX 12 resource.
System Requirements for DirectStorage Support
To unlock the power of DirectStorage on your PC, you'll need specific hardware and software components working together. Meeting these requirements ensures you can access the accelerated loading times and reduced CPU usage this technology offers.
NVMe SSD with PCIe 3.0 or 4.0 Interface
First and foremost, a Non-Volatile Memory Express (NVMe) SSD serves as the foundation for DirectStorage functionality. Although Microsoft indicates that other storage devices might see limited benefits, an NVMe drive is essential to fully utilize the optimized pipeline.
Size requirements vary across sources, with some recommending a 1TB or larger NVMe SSD for optimal performance, while others mention a minimum threshold of just 64GB of storage capacity. In terms of connection type, PCIe 3.0 NVMe drives represent the minimum standard for DirectStorage, but PCIe 4.0 models deliver superior results.
For gamers seeking the absolute best experience, PCIe 4.0 NVMe drives are strongly recommended. These newer drives offer substantially higher bandwidth, which in turn maximizes DirectStorage's data transfer capabilities. Hence, while the technology works with PCIe 3.0 drives, the faster interface provides noticeable improvements in loading performance.
DirectX 12 and Shader Model 6.0 GPU
On the graphics front, DirectStorage requires a GPU that supports both DirectX 12 and Shader Model 6.0. This combination enables the hardware-accelerated decompression that makes DirectStorage so effective.
Compatible options include NVIDIA's GeForce RTX 2000 series or newer graphics cards, as well as AMD's RDNA 2 and RDNA 3 architecture GPUs. Essentially, most modern graphics cards released in the last few years meet these requirements.
Interestingly, DirectStorage works immediately with existing graphics devices and drivers that support these specifications—no special driver updates are needed to enable basic functionality. Nevertheless, manufacturers often release optimized drivers to improve performance, so keeping your GPU drivers updated remains important for the best experience.
Windows 11 vs Windows 10 Compatibility
Although DirectStorage was originally developed for Xbox consoles, it has been adapted for both Windows 10 and 11. The technology functions on Windows 10 version 1909 or higher, making it accessible to users who haven't upgraded to the newest OS.
In contrast, Windows 11 offers superior DirectStorage performance due to its storage stack optimizations specifically designed for this technology. Microsoft explicitly recommends Windows 11 for users wanting to maximize DirectStorage benefits.
The practical difference between the operating systems is noticeable but not dramatic. Windows 11 provides higher data transfer speeds compared to Windows 10, yet both deliver significant improvements in game loading times. Subsequently, while Windows 10 users will still see performance gains, the full potential of DirectStorage unfolds on Windows 11 systems.
You can easily verify if your system meets all these requirements by opening the Xbox Game Bar (Windows Key + G), clicking the Settings gear icon, and checking the Gaming features tab. This utility clearly displays whether your Windows version, GPU, and storage drives are DirectStorage-ready.
How to Check and Enable DirectStorage on Your PC
Verifying whether your PC supports DirectStorage takes just a few minutes with built-in Windows tools. Once confirmed, the technology works automatically with compatible games without requiring manual activation.
Using Xbox Game Bar to Verify Compatibility
The Xbox Game Bar offers the simplest method to check if your system is DirectStorage-ready:
- Press Windows Key + G to open the Xbox Game Bar overlay
- Click the Settings (gear icon) on the Home Bar
- Select Gaming Features from the left panel
- Look under the DIRECTSTORAGE section to check if your GPU, operating system, and connected drives are marked as "DirectStorage supported"
This built-in tool clearly displays compatibility status for all three critical components. Should your Windows key not function, you can alternatively review the requirements listed in the System Requirements section of this article.
Steps to Update Windows and GPU Drivers
For optimal DirectStorage performance, maintaining updated software is essential:
First, ensure your Windows installation is current. DirectStorage requires Windows 10 version 1909 or later, yet Windows 11 delivers superior performance thanks to its storage stack optimizations. To update Windows:
- Open Settings > Windows Update
- Click "Check for updates" and install any available updates
Second, update your GPU drivers regularly. Graphics card manufacturers routinely release driver updates that enhance DirectStorage performance, especially around new game launches. Visit your GPU manufacturer's website (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel) to download the latest drivers.
Common Setup Issues and Fixes
Several issues might prevent DirectStorage from functioning correctly:
Incompatible Storage Device: If Xbox Game Bar shows your drives aren't compatible, you'll need an NVMe SSD with PCIe 3.0 or higher interface. SATA SSDs and HDDs won't deliver the full benefits of DirectStorage.
RTP File System Filter Driver Conflicts: Occasionally, antivirus software can interfere with DirectStorage functionality. To resolve this:
- Check for updated drivers for your security software
- Temporarily disable the RTP file system filter driver if problems persist
Game-Specific Configuration: Remember that DirectStorage is primarily game-dependent. Currently, few titles support this technology, so even with compatible hardware, you'll only see benefits in games specifically coded to use DirectStorage.
Unlike many gaming features, DirectStorage doesn't include toggles or settings to enable—it functions automatically when all requirements are met. The technology is built into Windows and activates whenever a compatible game requests it.
Which Games Support DirectStorage Today
The roster of games supporting direct storage technology has grown slowly since its introduction. As of now, only a handful of titles harness this technology's potential, with adoption gradually increasing among developers.
Forspoken and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Forspoken (January 2023) made history as the first PC game to implement direct storage, demonstrating load times of just 1-2 seconds for many levels. Testing showed improvements of approximately 30% or more in loading times compared to traditional methods. While impressive, Forspoken utilized DirectStorage 1.1 without GPU decompression.
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart (July 2023) pushed boundaries further as the first game to implement DirectStorage 1.2 with GPU decompression. This technology proved essential for the game's signature portal-jumping mechanics, allowing new worlds and textures to stream in real-time. Initially, performance issues emerged, with some players discovering the game ran better with DirectStorage files removed, though subsequent patches addressed these problems.
Upcoming Titles with SDK Integration
Chronologically, Forza Motorsport (October 2023) and Horizon Forbidden West (March 2024) joined the list of titles supporting direct storage. Several other games have announced integration plans, including:
EA Sports FC 24, Diablo IV, New World, Synced, and Test Drive Unlimited: Solar Crown. Additionally, some sources indicate that Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora and Warhammer 40,000: Darktide may also implement this technology.
Why Game Developer Support Is Crucial
Clearly, direct storage represents a fundamental shift in game development practices. Supporting this technology isn't simple—it requires reconfiguring how game assets are handled and potentially redesigning entire asset pipelines.
Regarding implementation challenges, developers must balance GPU resources between decompression tasks and graphics rendering, particularly in visually demanding titles. This balancing act explains why, three years after DirectStorage's introduction, only four games have shipped with full support.
Increasingly, as more developers adopt the SDK and integrate it into their engines, the technology will likely become standard for premium gaming experiences, especially given its presence in current console hardware.
Conclusion
DirectStorage stands as a game-changing advancement in how modern PCs handle data transfer between storage and graphics hardware. This innovative technology slashes loading times dramatically, transforming minutes-long waits into mere seconds through its streamlined data pathway and GPU decompression capabilities. The performance benefits prove substantial—games load up to 40% faster while using just a fraction of CPU resources compared to traditional methods.
Hardware requirements remain accessible for most modern gaming setups. Any PC equipped with an NVMe SSD (PCIe Gen3 or better), a DirectX 12 compatible GPU, and Windows 10/11 can take advantage of this technology, though Windows 11 users will experience the greatest benefits due to its optimized storage stack.
Despite these impressive capabilities, DirectStorage adoption has progressed slowly among game developers. Titles like Forspoken, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, Forza Motorsport, and Horizon Forbidden West lead the way as early adopters, while several upcoming games have announced integration plans. The technology certainly demands significant changes to asset pipelines and resource management, explaining the gradual implementation across the industry.
Looking ahead, DirectStorage will likely become standard for premium gaming experiences. The days of staring at loading screens might soon fade into memory as more developers embrace this technology. Gamers who invest in compatible hardware today position themselves perfectly to enjoy these lightning-fast experiences as support expands across more titles. This technology ultimately represents the most significant advancement in game loading since the transition from mechanical hard drives to SSDs—fundamentally changing how games deliver their worlds to players.