Last Edited:
This page is part of IGN’s Valheim Wiki guide and details everything you need to know about enabling and using the Vulkan API in Valheim after its latest 0.146.8 update.
What is the Vulkan API and Why Should You Use It with Valheim
Released as part of their 0.146.8 update, players can now enable the use of Vulkan in Valheim. Vulkan is essentially an API (Application Programming Interface) that works very much like DirectX and OpenGL for those that may not be familiar with such technology. Vulkan is mostly known for offering greater performance within games, often regardless of a player’s CPU and GPU.
Given that Valheim is still in early access, there is no denying that many improvements could be made to enhance the game’s performance. While you can always opt to use performance-enhancing mods, Vulkan is officially supported by Steam. The developers, Iron Gate, even believe that Vulkan can fix some of the random crashes related to GPU drivers and other factors. You can view the complete patch notes for the 0.146.8 update
At the end of the day, though, if you are running older hardware, there is no real harm in trying out Vulkan as many players have reported nearly doubling their initial FPS.
How to Install and Use the Vulkan API in Valheim
So now that we know what Vulkan can do, here’s how you can force Valheim to launch with Vulkan enabled in just two simple steps.
Step One:
Open Steam and navigate to your Steam Library and find Valheim. Right click on the Valheim icon and select properties.
Step Two:
Staying within the General tab, looking for the “Launch Options” setting at the bottom of the properties window. Click inside the input field and type “-force-vulkan“.
Now simply close the properties window and Valheim will now launch with Vulkan enabled upon selecting the “Play with Vulkan” popup that occurs when launching the game.