This disclosure describes an apparatus configured to process graphics data. The apparatus may include a fixed hardware pipeline configured to execute one or more functions on a current set of graphics data. The fixed hardware pipeline may include a plurality of stages including a bypassable portion of the plurality of stages. The apparatus may further include a shortcut circuit configured to route the current set of graphics data around the bypassable portion of the plurality of stages, and a controller positioned before the bypassable portion of the plurality of stages, the controller configured to selectively route the current set of graphics data to one of the shortcut circuit or the bypassable portion of the plurality of stages.