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How to Fix Conan Exiles Not Launching on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Conan Exiles is an exciting survival game, but it can be frustrating when it doesn’t launch on your Windows 11 PC. Many players face this issue for various reasons, from software conflicts to outdated drivers.

This guide will walk you through simple, step-by-step solutions to get Conan Exiles running smoothly again. Each step is explained clearly, so even beginners can follow along without confusion.

By following these methods, you can often fix common problems quickly and enjoy the game without delay. Let’s dive in and troubleshoot the issue together.

Remember, patience and careful attention to each step will help you resolve the problem effectively.

Quick Note: Basic Checks Before You Start

  • Check System Requirements: Ensure your PC meets the minimum requirements for Conan Exiles on Windows 11.
  • Verify Internet Connection: A stable internet connection is necessary for game updates and launching.
  • Close Background Apps: Sometimes other programs interfere with launching the game. Close unnecessary apps before starting.
  • Run as Administrator: Running the game with admin rights can prevent permission issues.
  • Update Windows: Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date for compatibility.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Before diving into complex fixes, restart your PC. This simple step can clear temporary glitches that block the game from launching. Restarting refreshes system resources and closes any hidden background processes that might interfere with Conan Exiles.

Step 2: Verify Game Files via Steam

Corrupted or missing game files often cause launch problems. Steam offers a built-in tool to check and repair these files.

  1. Open your Steam client.
  2. Go to your Library and find Conan Exiles.
  3. Right-click on the game and select Properties.
  4. Click on the Local Files tab.
  5. Select Verify Integrity of Game Files.
  6. Wait for Steam to scan and repair any corrupted files.

Once completed, try launching the game again. This step ensures your installation is complete and error-free.

Step 3: Update Graphics Drivers

Outdated or incompatible graphics drivers can prevent games from starting. Updating your GPU drivers can solve many launch issues.

To update your graphics drivers:

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Display adapters section.
  3. Right-click your graphics card and choose Update driver.
  4. Select Search automatically for drivers to let Windows find the latest version.
  5. Alternatively, visit your GPU manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) to download and install the latest drivers manually.

After updating, restart your computer and try launching Conan Exiles again.

Step 4: Run the Game in Compatibility Mode

Windows 11 is relatively new, and some games may have compatibility issues. Running Conan Exiles in compatibility mode for Windows 10 or 8 can help.

  1. Navigate to the game’s installation folder. You can do this via Steam by right-clicking the game, selecting Manage → Browse local files.
  2. Find the ConanExiles.exe file.
  3. Right-click the file and select Properties.
  4. Go to the Compatibility tab.
  5. Check the box for Run this program in compatibility mode for: and choose Windows 10 or Windows 8.
  6. Also, check Run this program as an administrator.
  7. Click Apply and then OK.

Try launching the game now to see if this resolves the issue.

Step 5: Disable Antivirus or Add Game to Exceptions

Sometimes antivirus software blocks game files thinking they are threats. This can prevent Conan Exiles from launching.

To fix this:

  • Temporarily disable your antivirus and try launching the game.
  • If the game launches, add Conan Exiles and Steam folders to your antivirus exceptions or whitelist.
  • Refer to your antivirus software’s instructions to add exclusions.

Remember to re-enable your antivirus after testing to keep your computer protected.

Step 6: Update or Reinstall Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables

Conan Exiles requires certain Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables to run properly. Missing or corrupted redistributables can stop the game from launching.

To update or reinstall them:

  1. Open Settings → Apps → Installed apps.
  2. Look for Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables in the list.
  3. If they are installed, select each one and choose Modify to repair.
  4. If not installed or repair doesn’t work, download the latest versions from the official Microsoft website.
  5. Install both x86 and x64 versions for best compatibility.

Restart your PC and test the game launch.

Step 7: Adjust Launch Options in Steam

Sometimes custom launch options can fix startup problems by disabling certain features or forcing compatibility modes.

To set launch options:

  1. Open Steam and go to your Library.
  2. Right-click on Conan Exiles and select Properties.
  3. In the General tab, find the Launch Options box.
  4. Enter one or more of these commands to troubleshoot:
-windowed
-novid
-noborder

These options launch the game in windowed mode without intro videos or borders, sometimes resolving launch issues.

After adding options, close the window and try launching the game.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does Conan Exiles crash immediately after launch?

Crashes can happen due to driver conflicts, corrupted files, or software incompatibility. Try verifying game files, updating drivers, and running in compatibility mode.

Do I need to update Windows 11 for Conan Exiles?

Yes, keeping Windows 11 updated ensures you have the latest security patches and compatibility fixes essential for gaming.

Can my antivirus really block the game from launching?

Yes, some antivirus programs mistakenly flag game files as threats. Temporarily disabling or adding exceptions usually fixes this.

Is reinstalling the game necessary?

Reinstalling is a last resort but can fix deep file corruption problems. Try other steps first to save time.

What if the game launches but crashes later?

This guide focuses on launch issues, but crashes can be caused by hardware problems or overheating. Check system health if crashes continue.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and Conan Exiles still won’t launch, consider the following final options:

  • Reinstall the Game: Uninstall Conan Exiles completely and reinstall it through Steam to ensure a clean installation.
  • Contact Support: Visit the official Conan Exiles Support Page for help from the developers.
  • Check Forums: Community forums like Steam Discussions or Reddit often have user-shared fixes for common problems.
  • System Restore: If the problem started recently, restoring Windows 11 to an earlier point might help.

Conclusion

Fixing Conan Exiles not launching on Windows 11 can usually be done by following a clear process, starting with simple steps like restarting your PC and verifying game files. Updating drivers and running the game in compatibility mode are also effective solutions.

Remember to check for software conflicts like antivirus interference, and keep your system updated to prevent future issues. If all else fails, reinstalling the game or contacting official support is your best bet.

By patiently working through these steps, you’ll increase your chances of getting back into the world of Conan Exiles quickly and smoothly.

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