A Reddit user reported that their MSI GeForce RTX 5080 Ventus 3X card failed after running a third-party DLSS 5 mod for Grand Theft Auto V. The user stated the card had functioned normally for one month prior to installing the mod. The failure occurred on the second day of using the mod, following five minutes of gameplay at approximately 80 FPS, resulting in screen artifacts, system freezing, and flickering displays.
The user subsequently replaced the faulty card with another RTX 5080 and ceased using the DLSS 5 mod. While other users have reported similar issues, there is currently no definitive evidence linking the mod directly to hardware damage. Tom's Hardware previously noted that DLSS 5 can increase GPU power consumption by up to 50 percent compared to earlier versions, though these tests were conducted on an RTX 5090 Lightning Z with a 1000W BIOS.
Modern graphics cards include integrated protection mechanisms, making damage solely from increased power draw unlikely under standard conditions. However, experts suggest that potential hardware design flaws related to 12VHPWR or 12V-2x6 power connectors could be exacerbated by higher power loads. Users concerned about hardware longevity are advised to avoid unofficial mods until further official support and testing data become available.
