Optimize Shadows for Better Performance or Quality

Open Shadow Settings

Press Shift + O to access shader options. Navigate to the shadow configuration section.

Understand Shadow Distance

Shadow distance determines how far from the player shadows render. This is the primary performance setting:

• Shorter distance: Shadows only appear near you; significantly improves FPS on weak hardware
• Longer distance: Shadows visible across the landscape; more immersive but heavier on GPU

Adjust Shadow Quality

Shadow resolution controls how crisp and detailed shadows appear:

• Lower resolution: Softer, blockier shadows; better performance
• Higher resolution: Sharper, more defined shadows; requires stronger GPU

Configure Shadow Softness

This setting controls how smooth shadow edges appear. Softer shadows look more natural but may impact performance slightly.

Test and Balance

Walk around during different times of day (morning, noon, sunset) to observe how shadows change with sun position. Adjust distance and quality until you achieve smooth gameplay without sacrificing the visual improvements that make NPC Shaders appealing.