Where Does DXVK Keep Config and Shader Cache?
DXVK config file, shader state cache and HUD environment variables on Windows and Linux, per game.
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DXVK reads an optional dxvk.conf from the game's working directory, or from wherever DXVK_CONFIG_FILE points. Shader state caches land beside the game executable as .dxvk-cache files, rebuilding stutter free over time. HUD and behavior toggles come through environment variables.
Everything is per game by design. Global configs cause cross title weirdness, so Proton and Lutris set these per prefix. Copying a cache between driver versions rarely helps; fresh caches compile cleanly.
Where DXVK stores this, by platform
C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\<Game>\dxvk.conf
State cache files sit next to the game exe and share its name stem. Config resolution order is working directory first, then DXVK_CONFIG_FILE. Deleting caches only costs temporary stutter.
~/.local/share/Steam/steamapps/common/<Game>/dxvk.conf
Same per game layout under the Linux Steam library or Lutris prefixes. Set DXVK_HUD and friends per game in launch options or Lutris runners rather than globally.
Frequently asked questions
How do I configure DXVK for one game?
Create a dxvk.conf in the game's working directory, or point DXVK_CONFIG_FILE at one shared file. Options include frame rate caps, filtering and HUD toggles. Per game files beat global ones.
Can I delete DXVK state cache files safely?
Yes, delete the .dxvk-cache files next to the game executable. They rebuild over the next sessions. Stutter returns temporarily while the cache refills, which is normal.
How do I show the DXVK HUD?
Set DXVK_HUD=1 (or fuller values like fps,compiler) before launching. Proton users add it to launch options. The overlay confirms DXVK is active and which API translates.
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