Enable True HDR in Tainted Grail: The Fall of Avalon on Windows 10

If you’re playing Tainted Grail: The Fall of Avalon and want to unlock the full power of your HDR monitor, this guide is for you. While Windows 11 users can enjoy Auto-HDR with ease, Windows 10 users need a little extra help to enable true HDR in the game. That’s where Special-K comes in.

Tainted Grail HDR Setup Guide for Windows 10 (Using Special-K)

In this guide, we’ll walk you step-by-step through the process of enabling HDR for Tainted Grail: The Fall of Avalon using Special-K, helping you get stunning visuals and a more immersive experience.

Requirements

Before diving into HDR settings, make sure you meet the following requirements:

• Operating System: Windows 10
• Monitor: HDR-capable display
• HDR Enabled: Toggle HDR in Windows Display Settings
• Tool Needed: Special-K Standalone Version (do not use the installer)

Note: If you’re using Windows 11, simply enable Auto-HDR in Display Settings—no need for Special-K.

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Installing Special-K in Tainted Grail

Here’s how to install Special-K manually:

1. Download Special-K Standalone
   Get it from the official site here (direct link).
2. Extract the Files
   Once downloaded, extract the archive using a tool like WinRAR or 7-Zip.
3. Rename the DLL
   Rename the file SpecialK64.dll to dxgi.dll.
4. Copy the File
   Move dxgi.dll to the installation folder of Tainted Grail: The Fall of Avalon. This is the same directory that contains the game’s .exe file.
5. Launch the Game
   Start the game. If installed correctly, you’ll see a popup overlay from Special-K when the game starts.

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How to Enable HDR Using Special-K

Once Special-K is installed, it’s time to turn on and configure HDR settings.

Step-by-Step HDR Configuration:

1. Open the Special-K Interface
   Press CTRL + SHIFT + BACKSPACE while in-game. A debug overlay will appear.
2. Access HDR Settings
   At the top menu bar, click on HDR.
3. Go to HDR Setup
   Select HDR Setup from the drop-down. A new window will appear in the top-right corner of the screen.
4. Enable scRGB HDR (16-bpc)
   Select this mode. The game will temporarily look washed out or distorted—don’t worry, that’s expected.
5. Choose HDR Preset 1
   From the top-right of the HDR window, select HDR Preset 1.
6. Calibrate Display Capabilities
   Click on Profile Display Capabilities. Your screen will change to a checkered test pattern.
7. Adjust Luminance Clipping
   Modify the Luminance Clipping Point until the checkered pattern turns into a solid white image. Then click OK.
8. Set EOTF to Linear
   In the dropdown labeled Content EOTF, choose Linear. This prevents the game from appearing too dark.
9. Fine-Tuning (Optional)
   You can now tweak the HDR settings, such as Color Boost, to better suit your preferences.
10. Close All Special-K Windows
    Once everything looks good, close the overlay and enjoy the game with full HDR visuals.

Final Thoughts

If you’re still on Windows 10 but want to experience Tainted Grail: The Fall of Avalon in all its HDR glory, Special-K is the way to go. With a few setup steps, you’ll unlock true high dynamic range rendering that significantly enhances the game’s visuals.

Whether you’re a seasoned player or diving into Avalon for the first time, turning on HDR adds a whole new layer of immersion.

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Last Updated on May 30, 2025