STW2 and Nvidia Optimus GPU's - [3 workarounds/solutions]

Tokyo_lights · June 2011

Hello,

For the past few days I been experimenting quite a bit with my Nvidia GeForce 555m 1GB DDR5 optimus system based GPU with Intel HD graphic integrated graphic chip and STW2 graphic performance.

As you all know optimus system is using an Intel HD integrated graphic chip as a primary card combined with secondary Nvidia GF 555M 1 GB DDR5, which is supposed to be switched on with high performance applications. The idea behind it is to save power for laptops, but it actually causes many problems for users willing to run their games with this system.

I would like to send my feedback to CA and there are few key issues with Shogun TW 2 with this GPU that I found:

1. The game only recognizes the Intel HD chip as a standard graphic card in the game options menu, instead of GeForce 555M and there seems to be no way internally or externally to force the game to recognize the Nvidia GPU instead of Intel HD chip.

2. This happens even when it is configured to run the application with the Nvida GPU in windows or bios and there is no way to force disable the Intel HD chip as this would disable the Nvidia GPU as well (since they are interconnected).

3. Even though the game only recognised Intel HD in graphic options menu, the game itself is run with the Nvidia GPU (this is confirmed as the game shows under "applications using GPU" when I alt-tab to windows during the game).

4. I suffer from pretty bad graphic downgrading due to the fact game only recognise the Intel HD chip which only comes with 500mb VRAM. Even when I update the preferences.script file with new VRAM value as suggested here on the forums, STW2 still overrides it and set it to a default 500mb value (so this doesn't solve anything).

5. Interesting enough there has been one occasion after I played the game for about an hour (campaign map as well as real-time battles), when I exit the game and restarted it to find out to my surprise that game actually recognised my Nvidia GPU and allowed me to set up ultra textures etc. I wanted to see the benchmark on highest possible resolution and I exited the game in order to run it in a benchmark mode, when I got and error message that VRAM is over budget and downgraded my settings. After I went back in to graphic options again, I could see that only Intel HD card is recognised again and it has been like this ever since. To me this suggests that the game is able to recognize my Nvidia GPU under certain conditions (which I am not aware of).

Therefore I would like to appeal to CA to please try to investigate if the optimus technology could be perhaps better recognised or optimised by the game or at least try to give us a hint if it possible and how to disable the automatic graphic downgrading or please add option to disable it with the future patch.

I would also be very interested to hear more info from other users of optimus GPU's and their experience running the game so please post your experiences here

Thank you,

Iscaran · June 2011

Most likely the only place to make optimus work correct:

http://www.nvidia.com/object/driverqualityassurance.html

This workaround posted here works for most ppl: http://forums.totalwar.com/showthread.php/20115-STW2-and-Nvidia-Optimus-GPU-s-3-workarounds-solutions?p=282546&viewfull=1#post282546

Praetorian121 · June 2011

Meh, on Nvidia site people only know to say "Your CPU is Bottleneck"
:rolleyes:

Tokyo_lights · June 2011

Yes unfortunately no solution is coming out from Nvidia side so far. I see many people are complaining about the optimus based cards so I hope they are working to address this issue. The latest drivers are not optimus compatible.

However I hope CA can also work something out to better support those systems or dd some sort of solution like option to specify your graphic card yourself or at least gives a tip how to overcome downgrading or better turn it off completely.

Would be great to hear some comments from CA on this issue as well so we can at least understand it better.

Thanks.

Tokyo_lights · June 2011

Ok guys... so I think found out a trick what seems to be a solution for my problem. So far I only tested it 3 times and I didnt restart my computer, so I have to run more tests on this to confirm it. In order for the game to recognize my Nvidia GPU and dont downgrade my graphics you need to use a small trick.

What I did as suggested here on the forum I edited the preferences script file with a gfx_video_memory at "2147483648" witch equals to 2GB VRAM (gfx_video_memory 2147483648; # gfx_video_memory <int>, Override available video memory (bytes) #). After I done this I went to graphic preferences and not only my Nvidia was recognized, but also game thought I actually have a 2GB or VRAM (I only have 1 GB) so it didnt downgrade any of my grpahics. Keep in mind that this "trick" didnt work for me when I used 1GB value - in this case game didnt recognized my Nvidia card and didnt accept the 1GB setting as well.

Interesting enough when I went out and restarted the game I noticed game again didnt recognize my Nvidia card and default card was set as Intel HD chip with 500m of VRAM.

So I exit the game and opened the preferences script and found out that game automatically rewrote the value of the VRAM to "562000000" (500mb), probably when I closed the game. So when I updated the script again with "2147483648" value and started the game, my Nvidia GPU was again recognized with a 2GB VRAM in graphic options (though I had to set up all the graphics all over again).

I checked the log and when my Nvidia GPU was recognized none of my grpahics got downgraded. I also noticed that game is well playable on my system with ultra settings except for AA on low, texture filtering on low and shadows on low.

When I tried to max everything the game was not at playable fps and quite slow.

Again my system is Intel Core i-7 2Ghz, 8GB DDR3 RAM, Nvidia GT 555M 1 GB DDR5 optimus.

To summarize. If you have similar system and experience same problem, you have to update the preferences.script every time before you start up a game with a value of "2147483648" (2GB VRAM). You would have to set the graphics all over again each time you start the game, but thats a small price to pay for actually being able to use your GPU and enjoy the game.

Hope this feedback also helps to solve the problem for the optimus based cards with future patches from CA.

Kim's clan · June 2011

As you have 8GB DDR3 RAM, that will work well, imo. Shogun 2 need 4G ram normally.

Tokyo_lights · June 2011

IMPORTANT UPDATE!

After restarting my computer and running few tests I realized something interesting:

After you use this "trick" and the game recognize my Nvidia GPU when I exit I see the preferences.script file has a value "-2147483648", instead of "2147483648". Even if I delete the "-", save the and start the game, it starts and doesnt ask me which Directx to use and recognizes only Intel HD chip again. When exit and go open the preferences.script again, I can see that the value has been reset automatically to "562000000" (500MB VRAM). When I edit this value again with "2147483648", and start the game the it asks me again which Directx to use as if it was starting for the first time. This is the sign my Nvidia GPU will be recognized with 2000MB of VRAM.

So basically this trick works only every second time I start the game and the sign that Nvidia GPU will be recognized is that the game ask me to select which Directx to use again.

I tried this few times with a same result so it seems like a constant thing.

Hope that helps.

cuongttco · July 2011

Tokyo_lights wrote: »

IMPORTANT UPDATE!

After restarting my computer and running few tests I realized something interesting:

After you use this "trick" and the game recognize my Nvidia GPU when I exit I see the preferences.script file has a value "-2147483648", instead of "2147483648". Even if I delete the "-", save the and start the game, it starts and doesnt ask me which Directx to use and recognizes only Intel HD chip again. When exit and go open the preferences.script again, I can see that the value has been reset automatically to "562000000" (500MB VRAM). When I edit this value again with "2147483648", and start the game the it asks me again which Directx to use as if it was starting for the first time. This is the sign my Nvidia GPU will be recognized with 2000MB of VRAM.

So basically this trick works only every second time I start the game and the sign that Nvidia GPU will be recognized is that the game ask me to select which Directx to use again.

I tried this few times with a same result so it seems like a constant thing.

Hope that helps.

What is the file name you have edited. Where is the path to the file.
I have the same problems because I am using an laptop Dell Queen N5110 with core i5 2410M, VGA Optimus Nvida GT525M with 1 GB dedicated memory and 4GB ram. In Graphic tap on Game Options it only shows: Video Card Nvidia GT525M and Video memory size only 535MB
Are you playing game with all ultra. I only need Ultra size of unit army
Please help me. Thanks

Tokyo_lights · July 2011

Hey.

You have to show hidden files option enabled in Windows (if you dont know how to do it try google search there are some guides how to do that).

Than go to user files through "computer" icon (you know if your Windows user name is XYZ the folder will be) XYZ > AppData> Roaming> The Creative Assembly> Shogun 2> Scripts> Preferences.script and edit line: gfx_video_memory yournumber123; # gfx_video_memory <int>, Override available video memory (bytes) #

If you still cant find it and you want try some search here on the forums, there's good guides how to find it.

Good luck and hope that helps for you!

cuongttco · July 2011

Thank you. let me try

levon.tamrazov · July 2011

Hey, thanks for the tip. However I am still experiencing a problem. My Nvidia card is GT 540M with 2 GB memory. I have found the preferences.script file, and tried editing that number to the one you suggested above. But the game still won't recognize the card. I switch the number, save the script, and start the game. It still only shows the intel family, and when I exit and go to the .script file I find that it switched back to the default (however I did not restart the computer). Any suggestions?

Thanks!

cvch · July 2011

I have an ASUS N53S with a NVIDIA GT 540M with the Optimus technology and the SAME EXACT PROBLEM
The game just does not detect my NVIDIA card, so I CAN´T PLAY and I´m starting to get tired of this situation as The Creative Assembly is just ignoring us "game sold, game forgotten".
I hope they give us an answer or a patch soon so we can play properly....

PS: the "gfx_video_memory 2147483648" thing does not work for me, the game changes it back to "gfx_video_memory 562000000" -.-

Kambei54 · July 2011

I have the same problem with the 555m. It has been that way pretty much since the DX11 patch came out, but I don't think (or cannot say) that is the cause.
However, it is sad and frustrating to me that I cannot play Shogun 2 at its full capability. I have been told about certain options concerning bios, but those are hit or miss. Please give us something to end this problem. Until then, I have to remove the game; issues with Empire caused me to uninstall it, and I suppose I have to do the same here. But like Empire, once this issue is dealt with, I will happily reinstall it.

Iscaran · July 2011

http://forums.nvidia.com/

It is a 100% driver issue. The driver does not fire up the GPU when STW2 is launched...if they cant fix I dont know who can.

Or create a custom profile and start the dedicated GPU prior to STW2...that should usually work as well, unless there is something "auto-shutting" down the gpu anyway.

cvch · July 2011

Well, at least you respond,thanks, but if the game (as many other games such as Crysis 2, Battlefield 2, The Witcher 2 etc...) was compatible with the optimus technology everything would be easier ^^
I know the new NVIDIA drivers are buggy but the game has also a compatibility problem, thanks.

cuongttco · July 2011

Any one find any information from http://forums.nvidia.com/. I spent two hours and result is nothings with my bad English

Nubsauce · July 2011

Having the same problem, started a few days ago. Anybody got any new information about this issue?

Iscaran · July 2011

Running skype or GPU-Z while trying to start STW2 ?

Nubsauce · July 2011

Nope, but finally got the game to detect my Nvidia card again after reverting my drivers to an older version.

ewp805 · July 2011

Having the same issue here. Stopped detecting my GeForce GT 540M and is picking up the Intel HD Graphics instead. I've got Shogun 2 on the white list for the GT 540m, too. Hopefully NVIDIA can release a fix in the next driver update.

Anandir · August 2011

Hi everyone.
I've the same issues of all of you, but, thanks to your suggestions, I found a definitive solution!!!
First of all here you can find all my problems in the Steam forum (http://forums.steampowered.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2026578).
Today I've tried the Tokyo_lights suggestions, no luck for me.
Investigating on the script file, and playing with it, I've found a way to play with the nVidia card!

First of all you must modify the first line:

write_preferences_at_exit false; # write_preferences_at_exit <bool>, Write preferences at exit #

So the app doesn't update the file every time.
If you look throught the file you see:

gfx_gpu "Intel(R) HD Graphics"; # gfx_gpu <path>, The GPU description #

WTF?!?
I've tried to modify with:

gfx_gpu "NVIDIA GeForce GT 540M     "; # gfx_gpu <path>, The GPU description #

Why the spaces? 'Couse if you go on the Device Manager -> Video Card -> Right click on the nVidia -> Properties -> Details -> Device Description -> Right click on the list below -> Copy I get the name with the spaces. I keep them just to be sure.
Now if you lunch the game you see the the initial nag screen a little bit smoother the before, good sign.
Now you need to tweak the settings.
Following I copy all my settings. Feel free to experiment with them.
Just an advise. Don't modify the setting throught the game, otherwise you lost the "nVidia setting".

write_preferences_at_exit false; # write_preferences_at_exit <bool>, Write preferences at exit #
app_multirun false; # app_multirun <bool>, Allow multiple instances of the application #
x_res 1366; # x_res <int32>, Fixed window width #
y_res 768; # y_res <int32>, Fixed window height #
x_pos 0; # x_pos <int32>, Window position #
y_pos 0; # y_pos <int32>, Window position #
vfs_log_level 0; # vfs_log_level <int32>, 0 - off, 1 - mod-user, 2 - dev #
unit_test false; # unit_test <bool>, unit test (for daily build) #
campaign_unit_multiplier 0.75; # campaign_unit_multiplier <float>, Set default unit multiplier for campaign #
naval_fleet_multiplier 0.75; # naval_fleet_multiplier <float>, Set default fleet size for battles #
gfx_first_run false; # gfx_first_run <bool>, First time application run #
gfx_dx11_checked true; # gfx_dx11_checked <bool>, Have we checked that user wants dx11? #
gfx_video_memory 2147483648; # gfx_video_memory <int>, Override available video memory (bytes) #
gfx_fullscreen true; # gfx_fullscreen <bool>, Run the application in fullscreen or not #
gfx_vsync true; # gfx_vsync <bool>, vertical synchronization #
gfx_hdr true; #  gfx_hdr <bool>, Use high dynamic range rendering pipeline #
gfx_shadermodel 4; # gfx_shadermodel <int>, Set shader model, 0-SM3LQ, 1-SM3, 2-SM4, 3=SM4.1, 4=SM5 #
gfx_aa 4; # gfx_aa <int>, Set antialiasing, 0-no, 1 = MLAA, 2 = MSAA_2X, 3 = MSAA_4X, 4 = MSAA_8X #
gfx_texture_filtering 0; # gfx_texture_filtering <int>, Set texture filtering, 0-trilinear, 4- anisotropic 16x #
gfx_texture_quality 2; # gfx_texture_quality <int>, Set the quality of textures. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_ssao true; # gfx_ssao <bool>, Enable Screen Space Ambient Occlusion buffer #
gfx_enable_directx11 true; # gfx_enable_directx11 <bool>, Enable DirectX 11 rendering #
gfx_distortion true; # gfx_distortion <bool>, Enable Distortion Effect buffer #
gfx_depth_of_field 1; # gfx_depth_of_field <int>, Set depth of field quality 0 - off, 2 - high #
gfx_hardware_shadows true; # gfx_hardware_shadows <bool>, Enable hardware shadows #
gfx_tesselation true; # gfx_tesselation <bool>, Enable tesselation #
gfx_sky_quality 2; # gfx_sky_quality <int>, Set the quality of sky. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_unit_quality 2; # gfx_unit_quality <int>, Set the quality of units. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_ship_quality 2; # gfx_ship_quality <int>, Set the quality of ships. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_building_quality 2; # gfx_building_quality <int>, Set the quality of buildings. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_water_quality 2; # gfx_water_quality <int>, Set the quality of water. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_unit_scale 2; # gfx_unit_scale <int>, Set unit scale. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_shadow_quality 3; # gfx_shadow_quality <int>, Set unit scale. 0 - off, 4 - ultra #
gfx_tree_quality 3; # gfx_tree_quality <int>, Set unit scale. 0 - off, 4 - ultra #
gfx_grass_quality 3; # gfx_grass_quality <int>, Set unit scale. 0 - off, 4 - ultra #
gfx_terrain_quality 1; # gfx_terrain_quality <int>, Set unit scale. 0 - low, 1 - high #
gfx_gamma_setting 2; # gfx_gamma_setting <float>, Set gamma correction #
gfx_brightness_setting 1.2; # gfx_brightness_setting <float>, Set brightness #
gfx_screenshot_folder ./screenshots; # gfx_screenshot_folder <folder>, Folder to where save screenshots relative to Empire directory #
gfx_gpu "NVIDIA GeForce GT 540M     "; # gfx_gpu <path>, The GPU description #
gfx_effects_quality 2; # gfx_effects_quality <int>, Set effects quality. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_vignette true; # gfx_vignette <true|false>, Enable vignette #
gfx_picture_in_picture false; # gfx_picture_in_picture <true|false>, Enable picture_in_picture #
camera_move_speed 100; # camera_move_speed <float>, Set camera movement speed #
camera_turn_speed 5; # camera_turn_speed <float>, Set camera turn speed #
default_camera_type 0; # default_battle_camera <card32>, default battle camera: 0-totalwar 1-rts 2-debug #
enable_sound true; # enable_sound <bool>, enables all audio content (default = true). If disabled none of the database or sound pack files are loaded. #
fix_res true; # fix_res <bool>, Forbid window resizing #
fix_window_pos true; # fix_window_pos <bool>, Forbid window repositioning #
mouse_wheel_sensitivity 50; # mouse_wheel_sensitivity <card32>, mouse wheel sensitivity: <0-100> default value = 50  #
invert_cam_x_axis false; # invert_camera_x_axis <bool>, invert camera tilting up/down #
invert_cam_y_axis false; # invert_camera_y_axis <bool>, invert camera panning left/right #
minimised_ui false; # minimised_ui <true|false>, show minimised ui #
ui_order_button_mode 0; # ui_order_button_mode <0|1|2>, Only applicable with minimised ui. 0 = always, 1 = slide on, 2 = never #
show_selection_markers true; # show_selection_markers <true|false>, Show the selection markers under the units #
show_path_markers true; # show_path_markers <true|false>, Show paths in naval battles #
show_target_zones true; # show_target_zones <true|false>, Show firing arcs etc #
ui_order_button_mode 0; # ui_order_button_mode <0|1|2>, Only applicable with minimised ui. 0 = always, 1 = slide on, 2 = never #
ui_card_mode 0; # ui_card_mode <0|1|2>, Only applicable with minimised ui. 0 = always, 1 = slide on, 2 = never #
ui_radar_mode 0; # ui_radar_mode <0|1|2>, Only applicable with minimised ui. 0 = always, 1 = slide on, 2 = never #
ui_land_unit_ids 0; # ui_land_unit_ids <0|1|2>, 0 = always, 1 = on mouse over, 2 = never #
ui_naval_unit_ids 0; # ui_naval_unit_ids <0|1|2>, 0 = always, 1 = on mouse over, 2 = never #
ui_mouse_scroll true; # ui_mouse_scroll <true|false>, Allow/disallow scrolling of the map by putting the cursor at the edge of the screen #
battle_time_limit 60; # battle_time_limit <int>, Sets the time (in minutes) for each battle. -1 for unlimited #
battle_difficulty 0; # battle_difficulty <int>, Sets the handicap for battles. Positive gives advantage.  -2 is vhard, -1 is hard, 0 normal, 1 easy #
autoresolve_difficulty 0; # autoresolve_difficulty <int>, Sets the handicap for battles that are autoresolved. Positive gives advantage.  -2 is vhard, -1 is hard, 0 normal, 1 easy #
campaign_difficulty 0; # campaign_difficulty <int>, Sets the handicap for campaigns.  Positive gives advantage.  -2 is vhard, -1 is hard, 0 normal, 1 easy #
battle_advice_level 2; # battle_advice_level <int>, Sets advice level in the battle game #
campaign_advice_level 2; # campaign_advice_level <int>, Sets advice level in the campaign game #
info_panel_mode 1; # info_panel_mode <int>, Sets info panel options. 0 - only in campaign, 1 - campaign and battle cards, 2 - campaign and battle cards and battle units #
advisor_mode 2; # advisor_mode <int>, Sets Advisor options. 0 - text only, 1 - audio only, 2 - text and audio both #
campaign_time_limit -1; # campaign_time_limit <int>, Sets the time (in minutes) for each round of the campaign. -1 for unlimited #
show_cpu_moves true; # show_cpu_moves <true|false>, Show/hide the movement of the ai pieces on the campaign map #
automanage_regions false; # automanage_regions <true|false>, Let the AI manage taxes etc in players regions #
limitless_ammo true; # show_cpu_moves <true|false>, Enable/disable Infinite ammo on battlefields #
occupiable_building_markers true; # show_occupiable_building_markers <true|false>, Enable/disable occupiable building markers on battlefields #
allow_drop_in_battles true; # allow_drop_in_battles <bool>, Allow invititations to other peoples campaign battles when playing a single player campaign #
friend_only_drop_in_battles true; # friend_only_drop_in_battles <bool>, invite only friends to your campaign drop in battles when playing a single player campaign #
multithreaded_model_enabled true; # multithreaded_model_enabled <true|false>, Run the battle model on a separate thread #
battle_camera_shake_enabled true; # battle_camera_shake_enabled <true|false>, Enable battle camera shake effects #
subtitles true; # subtitles <true|false>, Display subtitles during movies #
sound_master_volume 100; # sound_master_volume <int>, master sound volume 0-100 #
sound_music_volume 75; # sound_music_volume <int>, music sound volume 0-100 #
sound_speech_volume 100; # sound_speech_volume <int>, speech sound volume 0-100 #
sound_sfx_volume 100; # sound_sfx_volume <int>, sfx sound volume 0-100 #
sound_master_enabled true; # sound_master_enabled <true|false>, master sound enabled #
sound_music_enabled true; # sound_music_enabled <true|false>, music sound enabled #
sound_speech_enabled true; # sound_speech_enabled <true|false>, speech sound enabled #
sound_sfx_enabled true; # sound_sfx_enabled <true|false>, sfx sound volume enabled #
sound_provider 0; # sound_provider <int>, sound provider index (0-?) #
sound_channels 256; # sound_channels <int>, Number of sound channels. Fewer channels means fewer sounds but faster performance. #
voice_chat_enable true; # voice_chat_enable <bool>, Enables VOIP functionality in Steam. (default = true) #
voice_chat_microphone_gain 100; # voice_chat_microphone_gain <int>, voice_chat_microphone_gain (0-100). #
voice_chat_microphone_gain_boost true; # voice_chat_microphone_gain_boost <bool>, Boost microphone gain. #
voice_chat_volume 100; # voice_chat_volume <int>, Voice chat volume (0-100). #
voice_chat_quality 2; # voice_chat_quality <int>, Voice chat quality (0-2, 0 = low, 1 = medium, 2 = high). #
voice_chat_transmit_only_when_key_pressed true; # voice_chat_transmit_only_when_key_pressed <bool>, voice_chat_transmit_only_when_key_pressed (otherwise always trasnmitting). #
bink_use_thread true; # bink_use_thread <bool>, tells bink to use asynchronous update, increased performance on some systems, decreased on others. (default = true) #
number_of_threads 0; # number_of_threads <int>, Set the number of threads <= 0 - automatic, >0 = explicit number  #
campaign_camera_edge_scroll_delay 0.5; # campaign_camera_edge_scroll_delay <float>, Set the number of seconds of delay between the mouse cursor entering the edge-scroll zone on the campaign map the camera starting movement. #

As you can see I use the DX11 for playing the game.
There is only a small price to pay... Every time you lunch the game it ask to select if use DX9 or DX10 (the Intel card).
I think that solution could give an idea where the problem is. In fact the nVidia Optimus use the nVidia card, as you can see from the Windows taskbar (like someone said here), but the game doesn't see the card. In fact if you go on the preference menu you see Intel, not nVidia.

I hope that walkaround could work for all of you. I'ven't playied the game yet, but I've done a quick test with a quick battle.
'Couse everyone loves screeshots I'll give you a couple of screenshots.

I hope that long post could help us to play and CA to fix the problem.
My specs are here (with my 3D Mark 11 test): http://3dmark.com/3dm11/1588173?key=dXxp4QEskPDrbVM73ES5xLzCxYkjc0

2011-08-04_00001.jpg2011-08-04_00002.jpg

ewp805 · August 2011

Awesome, man. I got the same laptop as you, so I'll try what you suggested see if it works.

EDIT: Just tried out a pretty decent sized custom battle. Worked like a charm

Thanks a lot for this fix.

Anandir · August 2011

ewp805 wrote: »

Awesome, man. I got the same laptop as you, so I'll try what you suggested see if it works.

EDIT: Just tried out a pretty decent sized custom battle. Worked like a charm

Thanks a lot for this fix.

Wow!!! I'm happy to hear that^^!!!!
My highest hope is that fix could help CA to fix the problem^^.

See ya^^.

cvch · August 2011

Anandir wrote: »

Hi everyone.
I've the same issues of all of you, but, thanks to your suggestions, I found a definitive solution!!!
First of all here you can find all my problems in the Steam forum (http://forums.steampowered.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2026578).
Today I've tried the Tokyo_lights suggestions, no luck for me.
Investigating on the script file, and playing with it, I've found a way to play with the nVidia card!

First of all you must modify the first line:

write_preferences_at_exit false; # write_preferences_at_exit <bool>, Write preferences at exit #

So the app doesn't update the file every time.
If you look throught the file you see:

gfx_gpu "Intel(R) HD Graphics"; # gfx_gpu <path>, The GPU description #

WTF?!?
I've tried to modify with:

gfx_gpu "NVIDIA GeForce GT 540M     "; # gfx_gpu <path>, The GPU description #

Why the spaces? 'Couse if you go on the Device Manager -> Video Card -> Right click on the nVidia -> Properties -> Details -> Device Description -> Right click on the list below -> Copy I get the name with the spaces. I keep them just to be sure.
Now if you lunch the game you see the the initial nag screen a little bit smoother the before, good sign.
Now you need to tweak the settings.
Following I copy all my settings. Feel free to experiment with them.
Just an advise. Don't modify the setting throught the game, otherwise you lost the "nVidia setting".

write_preferences_at_exit false; # write_preferences_at_exit <bool>, Write preferences at exit #
app_multirun false; # app_multirun <bool>, Allow multiple instances of the application #
x_res 1366; # x_res <int32>, Fixed window width #
y_res 768; # y_res <int32>, Fixed window height #
x_pos 0; # x_pos <int32>, Window position #
y_pos 0; # y_pos <int32>, Window position #
vfs_log_level 0; # vfs_log_level <int32>, 0 - off, 1 - mod-user, 2 - dev #
unit_test false; # unit_test <bool>, unit test (for daily build) #
campaign_unit_multiplier 0.75; # campaign_unit_multiplier <float>, Set default unit multiplier for campaign #
naval_fleet_multiplier 0.75; # naval_fleet_multiplier <float>, Set default fleet size for battles #
gfx_first_run false; # gfx_first_run <bool>, First time application run #
gfx_dx11_checked true; # gfx_dx11_checked <bool>, Have we checked that user wants dx11? #
gfx_video_memory 2147483648; # gfx_video_memory <int>, Override available video memory (bytes) #
gfx_fullscreen true; # gfx_fullscreen <bool>, Run the application in fullscreen or not #
gfx_vsync true; # gfx_vsync <bool>, vertical synchronization #
gfx_hdr true; #  gfx_hdr <bool>, Use high dynamic range rendering pipeline #
gfx_shadermodel 4; # gfx_shadermodel <int>, Set shader model, 0-SM3LQ, 1-SM3, 2-SM4, 3=SM4.1, 4=SM5 #
gfx_aa 4; # gfx_aa <int>, Set antialiasing, 0-no, 1 = MLAA, 2 = MSAA_2X, 3 = MSAA_4X, 4 = MSAA_8X #
gfx_texture_filtering 0; # gfx_texture_filtering <int>, Set texture filtering, 0-trilinear, 4- anisotropic 16x #
gfx_texture_quality 2; # gfx_texture_quality <int>, Set the quality of textures. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_ssao true; # gfx_ssao <bool>, Enable Screen Space Ambient Occlusion buffer #
gfx_enable_directx11 true; # gfx_enable_directx11 <bool>, Enable DirectX 11 rendering #
gfx_distortion true; # gfx_distortion <bool>, Enable Distortion Effect buffer #
gfx_depth_of_field 1; # gfx_depth_of_field <int>, Set depth of field quality 0 - off, 2 - high #
gfx_hardware_shadows true; # gfx_hardware_shadows <bool>, Enable hardware shadows #
gfx_tesselation true; # gfx_tesselation <bool>, Enable tesselation #
gfx_sky_quality 2; # gfx_sky_quality <int>, Set the quality of sky. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_unit_quality 2; # gfx_unit_quality <int>, Set the quality of units. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_ship_quality 2; # gfx_ship_quality <int>, Set the quality of ships. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_building_quality 2; # gfx_building_quality <int>, Set the quality of buildings. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_water_quality 2; # gfx_water_quality <int>, Set the quality of water. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_unit_scale 2; # gfx_unit_scale <int>, Set unit scale. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_shadow_quality 3; # gfx_shadow_quality <int>, Set unit scale. 0 - off, 4 - ultra #
gfx_tree_quality 3; # gfx_tree_quality <int>, Set unit scale. 0 - off, 4 - ultra #
gfx_grass_quality 3; # gfx_grass_quality <int>, Set unit scale. 0 - off, 4 - ultra #
gfx_terrain_quality 1; # gfx_terrain_quality <int>, Set unit scale. 0 - low, 1 - high #
gfx_gamma_setting 2; # gfx_gamma_setting <float>, Set gamma correction #
gfx_brightness_setting 1.2; # gfx_brightness_setting <float>, Set brightness #
gfx_screenshot_folder ./screenshots; # gfx_screenshot_folder <folder>, Folder to where save screenshots relative to Empire directory #
gfx_gpu "NVIDIA GeForce GT 540M     "; # gfx_gpu <path>, The GPU description #
gfx_effects_quality 2; # gfx_effects_quality <int>, Set effects quality. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_vignette true; # gfx_vignette <true|false>, Enable vignette #
gfx_picture_in_picture false; # gfx_picture_in_picture <true|false>, Enable picture_in_picture #
camera_move_speed 100; # camera_move_speed <float>, Set camera movement speed #
camera_turn_speed 5; # camera_turn_speed <float>, Set camera turn speed #
default_camera_type 0; # default_battle_camera <card32>, default battle camera: 0-totalwar 1-rts 2-debug #
enable_sound true; # enable_sound <bool>, enables all audio content (default = true). If disabled none of the database or sound pack files are loaded. #
fix_res true; # fix_res <bool>, Forbid window resizing #
fix_window_pos true; # fix_window_pos <bool>, Forbid window repositioning #
mouse_wheel_sensitivity 50; # mouse_wheel_sensitivity <card32>, mouse wheel sensitivity: <0-100> default value = 50  #
invert_cam_x_axis false; # invert_camera_x_axis <bool>, invert camera tilting up/down #
invert_cam_y_axis false; # invert_camera_y_axis <bool>, invert camera panning left/right #
minimised_ui false; # minimised_ui <true|false>, show minimised ui #
ui_order_button_mode 0; # ui_order_button_mode <0|1|2>, Only applicable with minimised ui. 0 = always, 1 = slide on, 2 = never #
show_selection_markers true; # show_selection_markers <true|false>, Show the selection markers under the units #
show_path_markers true; # show_path_markers <true|false>, Show paths in naval battles #
show_target_zones true; # show_target_zones <true|false>, Show firing arcs etc #
ui_order_button_mode 0; # ui_order_button_mode <0|1|2>, Only applicable with minimised ui. 0 = always, 1 = slide on, 2 = never #
ui_card_mode 0; # ui_card_mode <0|1|2>, Only applicable with minimised ui. 0 = always, 1 = slide on, 2 = never #
ui_radar_mode 0; # ui_radar_mode <0|1|2>, Only applicable with minimised ui. 0 = always, 1 = slide on, 2 = never #
ui_land_unit_ids 0; # ui_land_unit_ids <0|1|2>, 0 = always, 1 = on mouse over, 2 = never #
ui_naval_unit_ids 0; # ui_naval_unit_ids <0|1|2>, 0 = always, 1 = on mouse over, 2 = never #
ui_mouse_scroll true; # ui_mouse_scroll <true|false>, Allow/disallow scrolling of the map by putting the cursor at the edge of the screen #
battle_time_limit 60; # battle_time_limit <int>, Sets the time (in minutes) for each battle. -1 for unlimited #
battle_difficulty 0; # battle_difficulty <int>, Sets the handicap for battles. Positive gives advantage.  -2 is vhard, -1 is hard, 0 normal, 1 easy #
autoresolve_difficulty 0; # autoresolve_difficulty <int>, Sets the handicap for battles that are autoresolved. Positive gives advantage.  -2 is vhard, -1 is hard, 0 normal, 1 easy #
campaign_difficulty 0; # campaign_difficulty <int>, Sets the handicap for campaigns.  Positive gives advantage.  -2 is vhard, -1 is hard, 0 normal, 1 easy #
battle_advice_level 2; # battle_advice_level <int>, Sets advice level in the battle game #
campaign_advice_level 2; # campaign_advice_level <int>, Sets advice level in the campaign game #
info_panel_mode 1; # info_panel_mode <int>, Sets info panel options. 0 - only in campaign, 1 - campaign and battle cards, 2 - campaign and battle cards and battle units #
advisor_mode 2; # advisor_mode <int>, Sets Advisor options. 0 - text only, 1 - audio only, 2 - text and audio both #
campaign_time_limit -1; # campaign_time_limit <int>, Sets the time (in minutes) for each round of the campaign. -1 for unlimited #
show_cpu_moves true; # show_cpu_moves <true|false>, Show/hide the movement of the ai pieces on the campaign map #
automanage_regions false; # automanage_regions <true|false>, Let the AI manage taxes etc in players regions #
limitless_ammo true; # show_cpu_moves <true|false>, Enable/disable Infinite ammo on battlefields #
occupiable_building_markers true; # show_occupiable_building_markers <true|false>, Enable/disable occupiable building markers on battlefields #
allow_drop_in_battles true; # allow_drop_in_battles <bool>, Allow invititations to other peoples campaign battles when playing a single player campaign #
friend_only_drop_in_battles true; # friend_only_drop_in_battles <bool>, invite only friends to your campaign drop in battles when playing a single player campaign #
multithreaded_model_enabled true; # multithreaded_model_enabled <true|false>, Run the battle model on a separate thread #
battle_camera_shake_enabled true; # battle_camera_shake_enabled <true|false>, Enable battle camera shake effects #
subtitles true; # subtitles <true|false>, Display subtitles during movies #
sound_master_volume 100; # sound_master_volume <int>, master sound volume 0-100 #
sound_music_volume 75; # sound_music_volume <int>, music sound volume 0-100 #
sound_speech_volume 100; # sound_speech_volume <int>, speech sound volume 0-100 #
sound_sfx_volume 100; # sound_sfx_volume <int>, sfx sound volume 0-100 #
sound_master_enabled true; # sound_master_enabled <true|false>, master sound enabled #
sound_music_enabled true; # sound_music_enabled <true|false>, music sound enabled #
sound_speech_enabled true; # sound_speech_enabled <true|false>, speech sound enabled #
sound_sfx_enabled true; # sound_sfx_enabled <true|false>, sfx sound volume enabled #
sound_provider 0; # sound_provider <int>, sound provider index (0-?) #
sound_channels 256; # sound_channels <int>, Number of sound channels. Fewer channels means fewer sounds but faster performance. #
voice_chat_enable true; # voice_chat_enable <bool>, Enables VOIP functionality in Steam. (default = true) #
voice_chat_microphone_gain 100; # voice_chat_microphone_gain <int>, voice_chat_microphone_gain (0-100). #
voice_chat_microphone_gain_boost true; # voice_chat_microphone_gain_boost <bool>, Boost microphone gain. #
voice_chat_volume 100; # voice_chat_volume <int>, Voice chat volume (0-100). #
voice_chat_quality 2; # voice_chat_quality <int>, Voice chat quality (0-2, 0 = low, 1 = medium, 2 = high). #
voice_chat_transmit_only_when_key_pressed true; # voice_chat_transmit_only_when_key_pressed <bool>, voice_chat_transmit_only_when_key_pressed (otherwise always trasnmitting). #
bink_use_thread true; # bink_use_thread <bool>, tells bink to use asynchronous update, increased performance on some systems, decreased on others. (default = true) #
number_of_threads 0; # number_of_threads <int>, Set the number of threads <= 0 - automatic, >0 = explicit number  #
campaign_camera_edge_scroll_delay 0.5; # campaign_camera_edge_scroll_delay <float>, Set the number of seconds of delay between the mouse cursor entering the edge-scroll zone on the campaign map the camera starting movement. #

As you can see I use the DX11 for playing the game.
There is only a small price to pay... Every time you lunch the game it ask to select if use DX9 or DX10 (the Intel card).
I think that solution could give an idea where the problem is. In fact the nVidia Optimus use the nVidia card, as you can see from the Windows taskbar (like someone said here), but the game doesn't see the card. In fact if you go on the preference menu you see Intel, not nVidia.

I hope that walkaround could work for all of you. I'ven't playied the game yet, but I've done a quick test with a quick battle.
'Couse everyone loves screeshots I'll give you a couple of screenshots.

I hope that long post could help us to play and CA to fix the problem.
My specs are here (with my 3D Mark 11 test): http://3dmark.com/3dm11/1588173?key=dXxp4QEskPDrbVM73ES5xLzCxYkjc0

2011-08-04_00001.jpg2011-08-04_00002.jpg

It works!! Thanks

Iscaran · August 2011

Hmm...interesting approach. I have changed the topic title to include a hint on the workaround presented here.

I also forwarded the topic to CA support - though I do not know whether they can do something about the detection of the optimus cards.

cvch · August 2011

Thanks Iscaran, let´s hope they can do somenthing with it ^^

Iscaran · August 2011

EDIT:

Found this link:http://forums.nvidia.com/index.php?showtopic=197584&st=20

nVidia claims that all problems will be solved with the next major driver update in september...for all who care.

1851015935 · August 2011

Anandir wrote: »

Hi everyone.
I've the same issues of all of you, but, thanks to your suggestions, I found a definitive solution!!!
First of all here you can find all my problems in the Steam forum (http://forums.steampowered.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2026578).
Today I've tried the Tokyo_lights suggestions, no luck for me.
Investigating on the script file, and playing with it, I've found a way to play with the nVidia card!

First of all you must modify the first line:

write_preferences_at_exit false; # write_preferences_at_exit <bool>, Write preferences at exit #

So the app doesn't update the file every time.
If you look throught the file you see:

gfx_gpu "Intel(R) HD Graphics"; # gfx_gpu <path>, The GPU description #

WTF?!?
I've tried to modify with:

gfx_gpu "NVIDIA GeForce GT 540M     "; # gfx_gpu <path>, The GPU description #

Why the spaces? 'Couse if you go on the Device Manager -> Video Card -> Right click on the nVidia -> Properties -> Details -> Device Description -> Right click on the list below -> Copy I get the name with the spaces. I keep them just to be sure.
Now if you lunch the game you see the the initial nag screen a little bit smoother the before, good sign.
Now you need to tweak the settings.
Following I copy all my settings. Feel free to experiment with them.
Just an advise. Don't modify the setting throught the game, otherwise you lost the "nVidia setting".

write_preferences_at_exit false; # write_preferences_at_exit <bool>, Write preferences at exit #
app_multirun false; # app_multirun <bool>, Allow multiple instances of the application #
x_res 1366; # x_res <int32>, Fixed window width #
y_res 768; # y_res <int32>, Fixed window height #
x_pos 0; # x_pos <int32>, Window position #
y_pos 0; # y_pos <int32>, Window position #
vfs_log_level 0; # vfs_log_level <int32>, 0 - off, 1 - mod-user, 2 - dev #
unit_test false; # unit_test <bool>, unit test (for daily build) #
campaign_unit_multiplier 0.75; # campaign_unit_multiplier <float>, Set default unit multiplier for campaign #
naval_fleet_multiplier 0.75; # naval_fleet_multiplier <float>, Set default fleet size for battles #
gfx_first_run false; # gfx_first_run <bool>, First time application run #
gfx_dx11_checked true; # gfx_dx11_checked <bool>, Have we checked that user wants dx11? #
gfx_video_memory 2147483648; # gfx_video_memory <int>, Override available video memory (bytes) #
gfx_fullscreen true; # gfx_fullscreen <bool>, Run the application in fullscreen or not #
gfx_vsync true; # gfx_vsync <bool>, vertical synchronization #
gfx_hdr true; #  gfx_hdr <bool>, Use high dynamic range rendering pipeline #
gfx_shadermodel 4; # gfx_shadermodel <int>, Set shader model, 0-SM3LQ, 1-SM3, 2-SM4, 3=SM4.1, 4=SM5 #
gfx_aa 4; # gfx_aa <int>, Set antialiasing, 0-no, 1 = MLAA, 2 = MSAA_2X, 3 = MSAA_4X, 4 = MSAA_8X #
gfx_texture_filtering 0; # gfx_texture_filtering <int>, Set texture filtering, 0-trilinear, 4- anisotropic 16x #
gfx_texture_quality 2; # gfx_texture_quality <int>, Set the quality of textures. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_ssao true; # gfx_ssao <bool>, Enable Screen Space Ambient Occlusion buffer #
gfx_enable_directx11 true; # gfx_enable_directx11 <bool>, Enable DirectX 11 rendering #
gfx_distortion true; # gfx_distortion <bool>, Enable Distortion Effect buffer #
gfx_depth_of_field 1; # gfx_depth_of_field <int>, Set depth of field quality 0 - off, 2 - high #
gfx_hardware_shadows true; # gfx_hardware_shadows <bool>, Enable hardware shadows #
gfx_tesselation true; # gfx_tesselation <bool>, Enable tesselation #
gfx_sky_quality 2; # gfx_sky_quality <int>, Set the quality of sky. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_unit_quality 2; # gfx_unit_quality <int>, Set the quality of units. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_ship_quality 2; # gfx_ship_quality <int>, Set the quality of ships. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_building_quality 2; # gfx_building_quality <int>, Set the quality of buildings. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_water_quality 2; # gfx_water_quality <int>, Set the quality of water. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_unit_scale 2; # gfx_unit_scale <int>, Set unit scale. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_shadow_quality 3; # gfx_shadow_quality <int>, Set unit scale. 0 - off, 4 - ultra #
gfx_tree_quality 3; # gfx_tree_quality <int>, Set unit scale. 0 - off, 4 - ultra #
gfx_grass_quality 3; # gfx_grass_quality <int>, Set unit scale. 0 - off, 4 - ultra #
gfx_terrain_quality 1; # gfx_terrain_quality <int>, Set unit scale. 0 - low, 1 - high #
gfx_gamma_setting 2; # gfx_gamma_setting <float>, Set gamma correction #
gfx_brightness_setting 1.2; # gfx_brightness_setting <float>, Set brightness #
gfx_screenshot_folder ./screenshots; # gfx_screenshot_folder <folder>, Folder to where save screenshots relative to Empire directory #
gfx_gpu "NVIDIA GeForce GT 540M     "; # gfx_gpu <path>, The GPU description #
gfx_effects_quality 2; # gfx_effects_quality <int>, Set effects quality. 0 - lowest, 3 - ultra #
gfx_vignette true; # gfx_vignette <true|false>, Enable vignette #
gfx_picture_in_picture false; # gfx_picture_in_picture <true|false>, Enable picture_in_picture #
camera_move_speed 100; # camera_move_speed <float>, Set camera movement speed #
camera_turn_speed 5; # camera_turn_speed <float>, Set camera turn speed #
default_camera_type 0; # default_battle_camera <card32>, default battle camera: 0-totalwar 1-rts 2-debug #
enable_sound true; # enable_sound <bool>, enables all audio content (default = true). If disabled none of the database or sound pack files are loaded. #
fix_res true; # fix_res <bool>, Forbid window resizing #
fix_window_pos true; # fix_window_pos <bool>, Forbid window repositioning #
mouse_wheel_sensitivity 50; # mouse_wheel_sensitivity <card32>, mouse wheel sensitivity: <0-100> default value = 50  #
invert_cam_x_axis false; # invert_camera_x_axis <bool>, invert camera tilting up/down #
invert_cam_y_axis false; # invert_camera_y_axis <bool>, invert camera panning left/right #
minimised_ui false; # minimised_ui <true|false>, show minimised ui #
ui_order_button_mode 0; # ui_order_button_mode <0|1|2>, Only applicable with minimised ui. 0 = always, 1 = slide on, 2 = never #
show_selection_markers true; # show_selection_markers <true|false>, Show the selection markers under the units #
show_path_markers true; # show_path_markers <true|false>, Show paths in naval battles #
show_target_zones true; # show_target_zones <true|false>, Show firing arcs etc #
ui_order_button_mode 0; # ui_order_button_mode <0|1|2>, Only applicable with minimised ui. 0 = always, 1 = slide on, 2 = never #
ui_card_mode 0; # ui_card_mode <0|1|2>, Only applicable with minimised ui. 0 = always, 1 = slide on, 2 = never #
ui_radar_mode 0; # ui_radar_mode <0|1|2>, Only applicable with minimised ui. 0 = always, 1 = slide on, 2 = never #
ui_land_unit_ids 0; # ui_land_unit_ids <0|1|2>, 0 = always, 1 = on mouse over, 2 = never #
ui_naval_unit_ids 0; # ui_naval_unit_ids <0|1|2>, 0 = always, 1 = on mouse over, 2 = never #
ui_mouse_scroll true; # ui_mouse_scroll <true|false>, Allow/disallow scrolling of the map by putting the cursor at the edge of the screen #
battle_time_limit 60; # battle_time_limit <int>, Sets the time (in minutes) for each battle. -1 for unlimited #
battle_difficulty 0; # battle_difficulty <int>, Sets the handicap for battles. Positive gives advantage.  -2 is vhard, -1 is hard, 0 normal, 1 easy #
autoresolve_difficulty 0; # autoresolve_difficulty <int>, Sets the handicap for battles that are autoresolved. Positive gives advantage.  -2 is vhard, -1 is hard, 0 normal, 1 easy #
campaign_difficulty 0; # campaign_difficulty <int>, Sets the handicap for campaigns.  Positive gives advantage.  -2 is vhard, -1 is hard, 0 normal, 1 easy #
battle_advice_level 2; # battle_advice_level <int>, Sets advice level in the battle game #
campaign_advice_level 2; # campaign_advice_level <int>, Sets advice level in the campaign game #
info_panel_mode 1; # info_panel_mode <int>, Sets info panel options. 0 - only in campaign, 1 - campaign and battle cards, 2 - campaign and battle cards and battle units #
advisor_mode 2; # advisor_mode <int>, Sets Advisor options. 0 - text only, 1 - audio only, 2 - text and audio both #
campaign_time_limit -1; # campaign_time_limit <int>, Sets the time (in minutes) for each round of the campaign. -1 for unlimited #
show_cpu_moves true; # show_cpu_moves <true|false>, Show/hide the movement of the ai pieces on the campaign map #
automanage_regions false; # automanage_regions <true|false>, Let the AI manage taxes etc in players regions #
limitless_ammo true; # show_cpu_moves <true|false>, Enable/disable Infinite ammo on battlefields #
occupiable_building_markers true; # show_occupiable_building_markers <true|false>, Enable/disable occupiable building markers on battlefields #
allow_drop_in_battles true; # allow_drop_in_battles <bool>, Allow invititations to other peoples campaign battles when playing a single player campaign #
friend_only_drop_in_battles true; # friend_only_drop_in_battles <bool>, invite only friends to your campaign drop in battles when playing a single player campaign #
multithreaded_model_enabled true; # multithreaded_model_enabled <true|false>, Run the battle model on a separate thread #
battle_camera_shake_enabled true; # battle_camera_shake_enabled <true|false>, Enable battle camera shake effects #
subtitles true; # subtitles <true|false>, Display subtitles during movies #
sound_master_volume 100; # sound_master_volume <int>, master sound volume 0-100 #
sound_music_volume 75; # sound_music_volume <int>, music sound volume 0-100 #
sound_speech_volume 100; # sound_speech_volume <int>, speech sound volume 0-100 #
sound_sfx_volume 100; # sound_sfx_volume <int>, sfx sound volume 0-100 #
sound_master_enabled true; # sound_master_enabled <true|false>, master sound enabled #
sound_music_enabled true; # sound_music_enabled <true|false>, music sound enabled #
sound_speech_enabled true; # sound_speech_enabled <true|false>, speech sound enabled #
sound_sfx_enabled true; # sound_sfx_enabled <true|false>, sfx sound volume enabled #
sound_provider 0; # sound_provider <int>, sound provider index (0-?) #
sound_channels 256; # sound_channels <int>, Number of sound channels. Fewer channels means fewer sounds but faster performance. #
voice_chat_enable true; # voice_chat_enable <bool>, Enables VOIP functionality in Steam. (default = true) #
voice_chat_microphone_gain 100; # voice_chat_microphone_gain <int>, voice_chat_microphone_gain (0-100). #
voice_chat_microphone_gain_boost true; # voice_chat_microphone_gain_boost <bool>, Boost microphone gain. #
voice_chat_volume 100; # voice_chat_volume <int>, Voice chat volume (0-100). #
voice_chat_quality 2; # voice_chat_quality <int>, Voice chat quality (0-2, 0 = low, 1 = medium, 2 = high). #
voice_chat_transmit_only_when_key_pressed true; # voice_chat_transmit_only_when_key_pressed <bool>, voice_chat_transmit_only_when_key_pressed (otherwise always trasnmitting). #
bink_use_thread true; # bink_use_thread <bool>, tells bink to use asynchronous update, increased performance on some systems, decreased on others. (default = true) #
number_of_threads 0; # number_of_threads <int>, Set the number of threads <= 0 - automatic, >0 = explicit number  #
campaign_camera_edge_scroll_delay 0.5; # campaign_camera_edge_scroll_delay <float>, Set the number of seconds of delay between the mouse cursor entering the edge-scroll zone on the campaign map the camera starting movement. #

As you can see I use the DX11 for playing the game.
There is only a small price to pay... Every time you lunch the game it ask to select if use DX9 or DX10 (the Intel card).
I think that solution could give an idea where the problem is. In fact the nVidia Optimus use the nVidia card, as you can see from the Windows taskbar (like someone said here), but the game doesn't see the card. In fact if you go on the preference menu you see Intel, not nVidia.

I hope that walkaround could work for all of you. I'ven't playied the game yet, but I've done a quick test with a quick battle.
'Couse everyone loves screeshots I'll give you a couple of screenshots.

I hope that long post could help us to play and CA to fix the problem.
My specs are here (with my 3D Mark 11 test): http://3dmark.com/3dm11/1588173?key=dXxp4QEskPDrbVM73ES5xLzCxYkjc0

2011-08-04_00001.jpg2011-08-04_00002.jpg

hello, somehow the workaround does not work for my computer. I copy pasted the code from the preferences but nothing happens. The nvidia card is running but the game thinks it's the intel card with 500-ish memory even though i have the same card geforce gt 540m 2gb optimus.
i checked the logs folder of the game from appdata and there is a gfx.log text file and says

Downgrading, Over budget by 258 MB
Downgraded Anti-Aliasing to 3
Downgraded Anti-Aliasing to 2
Downgraded Anti-Aliasing to 1
Disabled Anti-Aliasing
Disabled Depth of Field
Disabled SSAO
Downgraded Shadows to 1
Downgraded Shadows to 0
Disabled HDR
Downgraded Sky Options to 1
Downgraded Water Details to 1
Disabled Distortion
Downgraded Texture Quality to 1

I am running win7 64bit, 6gb memory, i7 2.7ghz with the nvidia optimus card.
my nvidia driver is 280.26 which i believe is the latest one and of course the game is patched
Am I doing something wrong here?

Iscaran · August 2011

Stickied topic for now - until more reliable optimus drivers (if ever) get released.

hongmon · August 2011

Hello! I had the same problem like any others did but none of the previous solution in this thread seems to help me out. So, I'm looking forward to hear that someone especially The CA can truely fix it, because I want to have some great memorable time with my most favorate game "Shogun2" on NVIDIA GT540M card like any others had on their ATI. CA show some good news soon please, Thanks.

P.S. the last time Shogun2 can recogzined the NVIDIA card is on 275.50 (beta) driver but on the lastest driver 280.26 the game can no longer detects the NVIDIA card. T-T

Best regards from Thailand and sorry for my terrible English language.

cuongttco · September 2011

are anyone update version nvidia 280.26 new driver. All thing are solved?

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STW2 and Nvidia Optimus GPU's - [3 workarounds/solutions]

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