15 replies to this topic

[Retribution]

Does anyone else have 100% CPU usage while playing Dragon Age? It's a common problem, even amongst people with good processors. I have a 900 dollar processor(got it on sale) and it is still happening. Also, some people have mentioned problems with their CPUs overheating. You may want to check the temperature.

[moriz]

DA:O is one of those games that greatly benefit from a 3rd and/or 4th core. basically, those with a quad core CPU typically will get significantly higher framerates... or i've been told.

most games will max out at least one CPU core. the reason why DA:O is giving 100% CPU usage for you, is because it's using every core on your processor, hence 100% utilization. a game that utilizes only one core will always show as 50% on a dual core, and 25% on a quad.

[Retribution]

It's definitely a bug. Bioware even said it was.

[moriz]

i doubt it. 100% CPU utilization in gaming is pretty normal. those having crashes or high temperatures likely have unstable systems to begin with, and the game merely stressed those systems enough to cause them to fail.

[Meh2100]

I pretty consistently get 75%-80% on all 4 cores when i play, tho i do have irc and FF open at the same time.

[jubei48]

I have had this problem only when I have the mage gear mod activated in downloadable content, and it only happens in cutscenes. when I disabled the mod, no more problems.

[Mondo]

I had this problem and had to use just 1 core by setting the affinity. Then I turned off my smart fan setting in the motherboard bios and the fan is running higher and not overheating when using all 4 cores.

[HisSelf]

I'm running a quad core with all options maxed out and CPU utilization rarely goes over 50%. I'm thinking you (OP) have some malware eating up your resources. Try downloading MalwareBytes anti-malware (it's free) and running it in Safe Mode. Also disable some of the things you likely have autostarting like Java Update, Adobe update, printer software, etc....

[Retribution]

I have Kaspersky anti-virus, and I don't have any malware on my computer.

[HisSelf]

Kapersky is good, however it doesn't catch everything. Try MalwareBytes in Safe Mode. Also try downloading the 30 day free trial of TuneUp Utilities 2009. Use it to configure your Start Up menu, then run 1 Click Maintenance. I think you will see a real improvement in your CPU usage.