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How to Fix Shadow of War Not Working on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Shadow of War is an exciting game that many enjoy playing on Windows 11. However, sometimes users face issues where the game does not start or crashes unexpectedly. This guide will help you fix common problems so you can get back to gaming smoothly.

The solutions provided here are simple and easy to follow, even if you are not very tech-savvy. We will start with basic checks and move towards more advanced fixes.

Following these steps carefully can save you time and frustration. Each step explains why it matters and how it helps to resolve the problem.

Let’s begin by ensuring your system meets some important requirements before diving into troubleshooting.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

  • Check System Requirements: Make sure your PC meets the minimum requirements for Shadow of War, including CPU, RAM, and graphics card.
  • Update Windows 11: Having the latest Windows updates ensures better compatibility and security.
  • Verify Game Files: Sometimes game files get corrupted or missing. Verifying them through your game launcher (Steam, Epic Games, etc.) can fix this.
  • Close Background Applications: Other programs running in the background can interfere with the game.
  • Restart Your PC: A simple restart can often resolve temporary glitches.

Step 1: Run the Game as an Administrator

Running Shadow of War with administrative privileges allows the game to access all necessary system files without restrictions. This can solve issues caused by insufficient permissions.

  1. Right-click on the Shadow of War shortcut or executable file.
  2. Select Properties from the context menu.
  3. Go to the Compatibility tab.
  4. Check the box that says Run this program as an administrator.
  5. Click Apply and then OK.
  6. Try launching the game again.

Step 2: Update Graphics Drivers

Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers are a common cause of games not working properly. Updating your GPU drivers ensures the game runs smoothly and uses the latest features.

  1. Identify your graphics card (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel).
  2. Visit the official website of your GPU manufacturer:
  3. Download and install the latest driver version for your system.
  4. Restart your PC after installation.
  5. Launch Shadow of War again to check if the problem is fixed.

Step 3: Disable Fullscreen Optimization

Windows 11 includes a feature called Fullscreen Optimization, which can sometimes cause issues with certain games. Disabling it might improve game stability.

  1. Right-click on the Shadow of War executable or shortcut and select Properties.
  2. Navigate to the Compatibility tab.
  3. Check the box for Disable fullscreen optimizations.
  4. Click Apply and then OK.
  5. Try running the game again.

Step 4: Verify and Repair Game Files

Corrupted or missing game files can prevent Shadow of War from launching or cause crashes. Most game launchers have a built-in tool to check and repair files.

For Steam Users:

  1. Open Steam and go to your Library.
  2. Right-click on Middle-earth: Shadow of War and select Properties.
  3. Click on the Local Files tab.
  4. Select Verify Integrity of Game Files.
  5. Wait for the process to complete, then try launching the game.

For Epic Games Users:

  1. Open Epic Games Launcher and navigate to your Library.
  2. Click the three dots next to Shadow of War.
  3. Select Verify.
  4. Wait until the verification finishes and then launch the game.

Step 5: Update DirectX and Visual C++ Redistributables

Shadow of War depends on certain system components like DirectX and Visual C++ Redistributables to run properly. Missing or outdated versions can cause the game to fail.

  1. Visit the official Microsoft website to download the latest DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer.
  2. Install it and follow the on-screen instructions.
  3. Next, download and install the latest supported Visual C++ Redistributables.
  4. Restart your computer after installation.
  5. Try running Shadow of War again.

Step 6: Temporarily Disable Antivirus and Firewall

Sometimes, security software may mistakenly block parts of the game, preventing it from running properly. Temporarily disabling antivirus or firewall can help identify if this is the cause.

  1. Open your antivirus or firewall software settings.
  2. Turn off real-time protection or firewall temporarily.
  3. Launch Shadow of War to see if it works.
  4. If the game runs successfully, add it to the antivirus/firewall exceptions list.
  5. Remember to turn your security software back on afterward.

Step 7: Run the Game in Compatibility Mode

If Shadow of War has compatibility issues with Windows 11, running it in compatibility mode for Windows 10 or 8 might help.

  1. Right-click the game executable or shortcut and select Properties.
  2. Go to the Compatibility tab.
  3. Check Run this program in compatibility mode for: and select Windows 10 or Windows 8 from the dropdown.
  4. Click Apply and then OK.
  5. Try launching the game again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does Shadow of War crash on startup?

Crashes on startup are often caused by outdated drivers, missing game files, or conflicts with other software. Following the steps above usually resolves these issues.

How can I check if my PC meets the game’s requirements?

You can find the minimum and recommended system requirements on the official game page or store listing. Compare them with your PC’s specifications by checking the System Information on Windows.

Is it safe to disable antivirus during gameplay?

Temporarily disabling antivirus can help diagnose issues, but it is important to turn it back on afterward. Always add the game folder to your antivirus exceptions to avoid future problems without disabling protection.

What should I do if the game still doesn’t launch after all these steps?

Advanced troubleshooting like reinstalling the game, updating Windows, or checking for hardware problems may be necessary. You can also contact the game’s official support for help.

Can running the game in windowed mode help?

Sometimes running the game in windowed or borderless window mode can avoid fullscreen-related problems. This option is usually available in the game’s settings.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above solutions and Shadow of War still does not work on your Windows 11 PC, consider these final options:

  • Reinstall the Game: Completely uninstall Shadow of War and reinstall it fresh to fix deeper file issues.
  • Update Windows: Ensure your Windows 11 is fully updated by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
  • Check Official Support: Visit the official Ubisoft support page for Shadow of War for specific patches, bug fixes, or help: Ubisoft Support.
  • Community Forums: Sometimes other players share fixes that worked for them on forums like Reddit or Steam discussions.
  • Hardware Check: If your PC has hardware issues, such as overheating or failing components, it can cause game crashes. Running diagnostic tools might help identify problems.

Conclusion

Shadow of War not working on Windows 11 can be frustrating, but most issues can be fixed by following simple steps. Always start with basic checks like running the game as administrator, updating drivers, and verifying game files.

Disabling fullscreen optimizations and updating system components like DirectX and Visual C++ often solve compatibility problems. If needed, more advanced fixes like running in compatibility mode or reinstalling the game can help.

Remember to keep your system updated and secure, and use official resources when troubleshooting. With patience and these detailed solutions, you can enjoy a smooth gaming experience in Shadow of War on Windows 11.

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