Maximize performance with a 3070 Ti graphics card in Red Dead Redemption 2.
Maximize performance with a 3070 Ti graphics card in Red Dead Redemption 2.
As @Levent mentioned, the limitation comes from GPU capacity—it tries to use every available horsepower. You can bypass this by reducing settings and capping FPS. If you ignore it, performance will remain high but usage stays the same. Rockstar handled RDR2 well, using maximum GPU power and CPU resources efficiently. You need to manually prevent it from doing so. This isn’t unusual behavior; it’s normal for a game to run at full capacity. The issue only arises if you notice 100% GPU usage yet experience unplayable frame rates, which would be unusual. Why this matters is unclear, but it seems intentional. If power consumption is a concern, lower the GPU’s power target so it runs more conservatively and draws less energy. Consistent frame times are usually better than strict FPS caps.
I adjusted the FPS limiter and managed to reduce the GPU usage to 100%. I realized that keeping hardware at full capacity isn't ideal—it shortens its lifespan. Constant heat generation inside the room is another issue I noticed. It seems like forcing a game to limit output through settings isn't the best approach. At least now I understand what went wrong. Thanks for your assistance.
I can manage these servers with CPUs from about 2008-2009 and still have some from 2011-2012. My GPU is from around 2008 and it's in a Mac Pro from 2006. They’re likely to fail eventually, probably due to capacitor issues on the motherboard or PCB, not the chips themselves. Failing under normal use hasn’t happened before. As long as things stay cool and within safe voltage limits, it won’t die just from working. Lowering the power target seems like a better fix. You can adjust it easily with MSI Afterburner—it has a slider for it. The design is solid; it gives you control over how games run. Those who need higher frames can enable them, while others can limit them. If they set caps on their side, people wanting top performance would be left out.
I've been researching this, and I think I'll try some experimental overclocking eventually.