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How to Fix “No Applicable App Licenses Found” Error in Total War Warhammer 3 on Windows 11

If you are encountering the “No Applicable App Licenses Found” error while trying to launch Total War: Warhammer 3 on Windows 11, it can be frustrating. This error typically prevents the game from starting, even if you have purchased it legitimately. Fortunately, there are several straightforward ways to fix this issue.

This guide will walk you through simple, step-by-step solutions to help you get back to playing your game as quickly as possible. Each step is explained clearly, so even if you are not very tech-savvy, you can follow along easily.

Most problems like this arise from license validation issues or software conflicts. By following these instructions, you’ll address the common causes and hopefully resolve the error without hassle.

Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into detailed fixes.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Check your internet connection: A stable internet connection is necessary for license verification.
  • Verify you are logged in to the correct account: Make sure you’re signed into the game platform (such as Steam) with the account that owns the game.
  • Confirm game purchase and activation: Ensure that your copy of Total War: Warhammer 3 is properly purchased and activated.
  • Restart your computer: Sometimes a simple restart resolves temporary system glitches.

Step 1: Run the Game Platform as Administrator

Running the game launcher or platform (e.g., Steam) with administrator rights can fix permission-related issues that block license verification.

  1. Close Steam or any other game launcher completely.
  2. Right-click the Steam shortcut or executable file.
  3. Select Run as administrator from the menu.
  4. Launch Total War: Warhammer 3 again and see if the error persists.

This step is important because sometimes Windows restricts access to certain files or network processes unless the program has elevated permissions.

Step 2: Clear the Store Cache (For Microsoft Store Version)

If you installed the game via Microsoft Store, corrupted cache files can cause license errors.

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type wsreset.exe and press Enter.
  3. A blank Command Prompt window will open; wait for it to automatically close.
  4. After the cache is cleared, try launching the game again.

Clearing the cache forces the Microsoft Store to refresh license data and can resolve issues caused by stale or corrupted information.

Step 3: Check for Windows Updates

Keeping Windows 11 up-to-date ensures compatibility with games and the licensing system.

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Go to Windows Update in the sidebar.
  3. Click Check for updates.
  4. If updates are available, install them and restart your PC.

Sometimes, outdated system components can interfere with license verification, so updating Windows can fix hidden issues.

Step 4: Reinstall the Game Platform or Microsoft Store

If the problem still occurs, your game launcher or Store app might be corrupted.

For Steam:

  1. Open Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
  2. Find Steam in the list and select Uninstall.
  3. Download the latest Steam installer from the official website and reinstall.

For Microsoft Store:

  1. Open Windows PowerShell as administrator (right-click Start and select Windows Terminal (Admin)).
  2. Run the following command to reinstall the Store:
    3. Get-AppxPackage -allusers Microsoft.WindowsStore | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)AppXManifest.xml"}

Reinstalling ensures that any corrupted files causing license errors are replaced with fresh versions.

Step 5: Verify Game Files Integrity (Steam only)

Corrupted or missing game files can prevent proper license validation. Steam allows you to verify and repair your game files easily.

  1. Open Steam and go to your Library.
  2. Right-click on Total War: Warhammer 3 and select Properties.
  3. Go to the Local Files tab.
  4. Click on Verify integrity of game files…
  5. Wait for the process to complete, then try launching the game again.

This process compares your local game files with the official ones and replaces any that are broken or missing.

Alternative Method: Use the Microsoft Store Troubleshooter

If you are using the Microsoft Store version, Windows has a built-in troubleshooter that can detect and fix Store-related issues.

  1. Open Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  2. Find Windows Store Apps in the list and click Run.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

This tool automatically attempts to fix common problems related to licenses and app installations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does the “No Applicable App Licenses Found” error appear?

This error usually happens when the game cannot verify that you own a valid license. It can be caused by network issues, corrupted store data, or problems with the game platform.

Can I play the game offline if this error appears?

Usually, no. License verification often requires an internet connection. However, some platforms allow offline mode after initial verification, so ensure you have logged in online at least once.

Is this issue related to piracy?

Not necessarily. Even legitimate users can face this error due to software glitches or corrupted files.

Will reinstalling the game fix this error?

Reinstalling the game can fix corrupted files but should be done after trying simpler steps like verifying game files or clearing cache.

Does this problem occur only on Windows 11?

No, similar issues can happen on other Windows versions, but Windows 11’s security features sometimes make license verification more sensitive.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and still face the error, consider the following options:

  • Contact support: Reach out to the game’s official support team or platform support (Steam/Microsoft Store) for personalized assistance.
  • Check official forums: Visit the Total War forums or community hubs for advice and updates from other players.
  • Reset Windows Store (if applicable): As a last resort, you can reset the entire Microsoft Store by going to Settings > Apps > Apps & features > Microsoft Store > Advanced options > Reset.

These final steps can help if the problem is due to deeper system or account issues.

Conclusion

The “No Applicable App Licenses Found” error can be fixed by following simple, logical steps starting from checking permissions and internet connection to verifying game files and reinstalling necessary software. Understanding why each step matters helps you troubleshoot effectively without unnecessary frustration.

Always start with the easiest solutions and gradually move to advanced methods if needed. With patience and the right approach, you should be able to resolve the error and enjoy Total War: Warhammer 3 on your Windows 11 PC.

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