Struggling with frame drops and lag in Half Sword Early Access? You're not alone. Here's the essential fix that solves most performance issues – plus additional tips for graphics, maps, and combat.

The #1 Fix: Switch to DirectX 12

CRITICAL STEP

This is the most important fix for anyone having performance issues. Do this before trying anything else.

How to Enable DX12

Launch Half Sword and go to Settings
Navigate to the DirectX option
Change from DX11 to DX12
Restart the game completely

Half Sword DirectX 12 settings menu — Change DirectX to DX12 in the settings menu – this alone fixes most performance issues

After switching to DX12 and restarting, most performance problems will be solved. This is essential for enjoying the game properly.

Optimal Graphics Settings

Even with DX12 enabled, you should avoid High graphics settings in Early Access. Here's what works best:

🎮 Recommended Settings

• DirectX: DX12 (mandatory)
• Graphics Quality: Low or Medium
• Resolution: Native or slightly lower if needed
• Avoid: High settings until patches arrive

Half Sword graphics settings on Low for best performance — Keep graphics on Low or Medium for the best Early Access experience

Dev Track Record

The devs have released performance patches already, including fixes for AMD-based cards. More optimizations are coming – this is typical for Early Access launches.

Maps to Avoid (and Why)

Not all maps are created equal when it comes to performance. Some are significantly more demanding than others:

❌ Avoid These Maps

Slums – Worst performance, slippery terrain, easy to fall off edges
Forest – Heavy on lighting effects (but okayish with good PC)

✓ Safer Choices

Arena – Standard map, most stable
Courtyard – Balanced performance

Half Sword Slums map showing problematic terrain — The Slums map is incredibly big, has performance issues, and slippery terrain – avoid until patched

Slums Warning

The Slums map has slippery mud that makes you fall constantly, especially without shoes. Avoid those rocks and debris – you'll slip and lose the fight!

Weapon Tips for Smoother Combat

Some weapons can cause issues or get you killed faster than others. Here's what to know:

Weapons That Can Bug Out

Two-handed weapons (maces, flails, spears) can get glitched into your body
If a weapon clips through you, you can't switch hands or use it properly
Dropping them on the floor may cause them to disappear forever
Swords rarely have this problem

Quick Fix for Stuck Weapons

If your weapon feels weird or stuck, press X to switch hands. This often fixes the grip and makes it usable again.

Recommended Beginner Weapons

• Pitchfork – Very easy to use, good range
• Staff – Solid choice, predictable swings
• Flail – Powerful but use controlled swings only
• Custom Mace – Craft one to match your strength
• Avoid Poleaxe – You're not ready for it as a beginner!

Half Sword mace combat showing controlled swing — Use controlled, short-to-medium swings – one hit, back up, repeat

Combat Techniques for Stability

The way you fight also affects stability. Wild swinging causes more issues:

DO: Controlled Combat

Short to medium swings – One hit, back up, one hit
Aim at the head – Much more effective than body shots
Use left-to-right swings when close
Approach, swing, retreat – Don't stay in their face

DON'T: Wild Swinging

Swinging wildly causes weapons to get stuck in your body
You can lose grip and drop your weapon
Dropped weapons may fall through the floor and disappear

The Weight/Experience System

Your character's weight in kilos represents your experience and strength:

💪 How Weight Works

• Starting weight: Around 60 kilos (weak)
• Gain weight by: Using weapons and fighting
• Higher weight = Stronger hits, better weapon control
• Example: At 84 kilos, you'll see visible muscles and much better combat performance

Half Sword character showing weight and muscle development — At 84 kilos you'll see visible muscle development and much stronger combat ability

Character Creation Tip

Choose a tall character if you want to win fights early. Short characters have a harder time hitting heads and brawling effectively.

Brawling: Easy Money Early Game

Brawling (fist-only fights) is the easiest way to make money when starting out:

Spam punches works well
Kick to create distance
Pocket punch for quick hits
Very reliable way to build your bank in early game

Damage Warning

In the current version, you die very easily, especially to cutting weapons. Always be ready to avoid getting hit – one good slice can end you instantly.

Looting & Money Tips

Check carts and containers in maps for hidden weapons and armor
Steal equipment from enemies and sell it at the merchant
Beggar-level items only sell for ~1 gold coin, but it adds up
Press G to surrender if you're about to die – keep your gear!

Half Sword custom weapon crafting menu — Use crafting to create custom weapons tuned to your current strength level

Quick Reference Checklist

🎮 Performance Fix Checklist

1. Switch to DX12 in settings (most important!)
2. Set graphics to Low or Medium
3. Restart the game after changing settings
4. Avoid Slums map until patched
5. Use controlled swings, not wild swinging
6. Start with Pitchfork, Staff, or Flail
7. Choose a tall character for easier fights
8. Wait 1-2 weeks for optimization patches if issues persist

Final Advice

The devs are actively patching the game. If you're still having issues after trying everything, wait 1-2 weeks for more optimization updates. The game will be in a much better state soon!