The game relies on hardware accelerated PhysX. Even if you have a newer GPU, installing legacy NVIDIA PhysX drivers is crucial for stability.
Since this is a 32-bit game, it may crash due to memory limitations. Use the NTCore 4GB Patch on the .exe to allow it to utilize more memory on 64-bit systems. Cryostasis.GOG.rar
Cryostasis: Sleep of Reason is a highly atmospheric but famously difficult-to-run psychological horror game. Because it was delisted from GOG and Steam years ago, files labeled "Cryostasis.GOG.rar" often refer to backed-up, pre-patched offline installers. The game relies on hardware accelerated PhysX
Recommendations on to avoid "frost" shaders breaking the game? Cryostasis.GOG.rar
If the game crashes with a Effect::Load() failed error, open config.cfg and change @r.shadermodel = 3 to @r.shadermodel = 4 .