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How to Fix Age of Wonders: Planetfall Bugs on Windows 11 – Complete Troubleshooting Guide

Age of Wonders: Planetfall is a popular strategy game enjoyed by many on Windows 11. However, like any software, it can sometimes encounter bugs or performance issues that disrupt gameplay. Fortunately, most of these problems can be fixed with a few straightforward steps.

In this guide, we will walk you through simple and effective troubleshooting methods to get your game running smoothly again. Each step is explained clearly, so you don’t need to be a tech expert to follow along.

Whether you are facing crashes, graphical glitches, or slow performance, this guide covers the most common issues and their solutions. Let’s get started and bring your game back to life.

Before diving into detailed fixes, some quick checks can save time and avoid unnecessary steps.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

  • Check System Requirements: Ensure your PC meets the minimum requirements for Age of Wonders: Planetfall on Windows 11. Insufficient hardware can cause bugs and crashes.
  • Update Windows 11: Running the latest version of Windows improves compatibility and security. Go to Settings > Windows Update and install any pending updates.
  • Update Graphics Drivers: Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers often cause graphical bugs. Visit your GPU manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) to download the latest drivers.
  • Verify Game Files: If you use Steam or another launcher, verify the integrity of game files to fix corrupted or missing files.

Step 1: Run the Game as Administrator

Sometimes, Age of Wonders: Planetfall requires elevated permissions to access certain system resources. Running the game as an administrator can resolve permission-related bugs.

  1. Locate the game executable or shortcut on your desktop or in the installation folder.
  2. Right-click on the game icon.
  3. Select Run as administrator.
  4. If the game launches correctly, consider setting it to always run as administrator:
    • Right-click the game icon and select Properties.
    • Go to the Compatibility tab.
    • Check the box for Run this program as an administrator.
    • Click Apply and then OK.

Step 2: Update or Reinstall Visual C++ Redistributables

Age of Wonders: Planetfall depends on Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable packages. Missing or corrupted redistributables can cause crashes or failure to launch.

  1. Visit the official Microsoft website to download the latest Visual C++ Redistributables:
  2. Download and install the versions required by the game (usually 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2022).
  3. Restart your PC after installation.
  4. Try launching the game again.

Step 3: Disable Fullscreen Optimizations

Windows 11 includes a feature called Fullscreen Optimizations. Sometimes this can interfere with the game’s graphics and cause lag or crashes.

  1. Right-click the game executable or shortcut.
  2. Select Properties.
  3. Go to the Compatibility tab.
  4. Check the box labeled Disable fullscreen optimizations.
  5. Click Apply and then OK.
  6. Launch the game to see if performance improves.

Step 4: Adjust Graphics Settings In-Game

If your game crashes or runs poorly, lowering graphics settings can help reduce stress on your system. This is especially useful if your hardware barely meets the game’s requirements.

  • Open Age of Wonders: Planetfall.
  • Go to Settings > Graphics.
  • Lower options such as resolution, texture quality, shadows, and anti-aliasing.
  • Apply changes and test gameplay.

Lowering settings reduces the load on your GPU and CPU, helping to prevent crashes and stuttering.

Step 5: Update or Reinstall the Game

Game updates often include bug fixes. Make sure you have the latest version installed.

  1. Open your game launcher (Steam, Epic Games Store, etc.).
  2. Check for any available updates for Age of Wonders: Planetfall.
  3. Download and install updates.
  4. If bugs persist, consider reinstalling the game:
    • Uninstall the game via the launcher or Windows Settings.
    • Restart your PC.
    • Download and install the game fresh.

Step 6: Check for Conflicting Software

Background applications like antivirus or overlay programs may interfere with the game and cause bugs.

  • Temporarily disable antivirus or firewall software and try running the game.
  • Close overlay apps such as Discord, NVIDIA GeForce Experience, or Xbox Game Bar.
  • If the game works after disabling these apps, add exceptions or whitelist the game in those programs.

Advanced Troubleshooting: Using Compatibility Mode

If the game still does not run correctly, try running it in compatibility mode for an earlier version of Windows.

  1. Right-click the game executable and choose Properties.
  2. Go to the Compatibility tab.
  3. Check Run this program in compatibility mode for: and select Windows 10 or Windows 8.
  4. Click Apply and OK.
  5. Launch the game and check if the issue persists.

FAQs

Why does Age of Wonders: Planetfall keep crashing on Windows 11?

Crashes can be caused by outdated drivers, corrupted game files, or conflicts with other software. Updating your system and verifying game files usually helps.

How do I verify the integrity of game files?

On Steam, right-click the game in your library > Properties > Local Files > Verify Integrity of Game Files. This checks for missing or corrupted files and replaces them.

Can I play the game without updating Windows 11?

While possible, running the latest Windows updates ensures better compatibility and fewer bugs, so updating is strongly recommended.

What should I do if the game runs slowly?

Try lowering in-game graphics settings and close unnecessary background apps to free up system resources.

Is reinstalling the game necessary?

Reinstalling can fix persistent bugs caused by corrupted files, but it should be your last step after trying other solutions.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and Age of Wonders: Planetfall still does not function correctly on Windows 11, consider the following:

  • Visit the official Age of Wonders support page for specific patches and updates.
  • Check forums and communities such as Steam Discussions or Reddit for advice from other players.
  • Contact the game’s customer support for personalized assistance.
  • As a last resort, consider rolling back to Windows 10 if compatibility issues persist and no fixes are available.

Conclusion

Fixing bugs in Age of Wonders: Planetfall on Windows 11 is usually straightforward when following a step-by-step troubleshooting approach. Start with simple fixes like running the game as administrator and updating drivers, then move to more advanced solutions if needed.

Always keep your system and game updated, verify game files regularly, and be mindful of software conflicts. With patience and these detailed steps, you can enjoy a smooth and immersive gaming experience once again.

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