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How to Fix Assassin’s Creed Valhalla DirectX 12 Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is a popular game that many players enjoy on Windows 11. However, some users encounter a frustrating DirectX 12 error when launching or playing the game. This error can prevent the game from running smoothly or starting at all.

Fixing DirectX 12 errors generally involves updating software, adjusting system settings, or repairing game files. The good news is that most solutions are straightforward and can be done without advanced technical knowledge.

In this guide, we will walk you through simple, step-by-step instructions to resolve the DirectX 12 error in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla on Windows 11. Follow each step carefully to get back to your epic Viking adventures.

Let’s begin with some quick checks to make sure your system is ready for the fixes.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Ensure your Windows 11 is fully updated. Updates often include important DirectX and system improvements.
  • Verify your GPU drivers are current. Outdated drivers can cause compatibility issues with DirectX 12.
  • Check that your PC meets the minimum system requirements for Assassin’s Creed Valhalla. Insufficient hardware might trigger errors.
  • Close unnecessary background applications. Sometimes conflicts with other software cause DirectX errors.

Step 1: Update Your Graphics Drivers

Graphics drivers are the software that help your game communicate with your video card. If these drivers are old or corrupted, DirectX 12 errors may occur. Updating them can fix this problem.

  1. Press Win + 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 updated driver software.
  5. Follow any prompts to install new drivers, then restart your PC.

If you prefer, you can also visit your GPU manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel) to download the latest drivers manually.

Step 2: Update DirectX on Windows 11

DirectX 12 is built into Windows 11, but sometimes it needs an update or repair. Here’s how to check and update it:

  1. Open Settings by pressing Win + I.
  2. Go to Windows Update.
  3. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
  4. Restart your computer after installing updates.

This process ensures your DirectX libraries are up to date, which is essential for games relying on DirectX 12.

Step 3: Adjust In-Game Graphics Settings

Sometimes, lowering or changing graphics settings in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla can bypass DirectX 12 errors, especially if your hardware struggles with default settings.

  1. Open the game’s Settings menu.
  2. Navigate to Graphics options.
  3. Lower settings such as Texture Quality, Shadow Quality, and Ray Tracing if enabled.
  4. Try switching the Graphics API if the option exists (for example, from DirectX 12 to DirectX 11).
  5. Save changes and restart the game.

Reducing graphic load may prevent the error from occurring during gameplay.

Step 4: Verify and Repair Game Files

Corrupt or missing game files can cause DirectX errors. Repairing the game files can help fix this.

If you use Ubisoft Connect:

  1. Open Ubisoft Connect client.
  2. Go to Games and select Assassin’s Creed Valhalla.
  3. Click on Properties.
  4. Select Verify files or Repair.
  5. Wait for the process to complete, then restart the game.

For Steam users:

  1. Open Steam and go to Library.
  2. Right-click on Assassin’s Creed Valhalla and select Properties.
  3. Go to the Local Files tab.
  4. Click Verify Integrity of Game Files.
  5. After completion, launch the game again.

Step 5: Disable Fullscreen Optimizations and Run as Administrator

Windows 11’s fullscreen optimizations sometimes interfere with games and cause DirectX errors. Running the game as an administrator can also give it the necessary permissions to work correctly.

  1. Right-click the game’s shortcut or executable file.
  2. Select Properties.
  3. Go to the Compatibility tab.
  4. Check Disable fullscreen optimizations.
  5. Check Run this program as an administrator.
  6. Click Apply then OK.
  7. Launch the game to test if the error is resolved.

Step 6: Update Windows Graphics Settings

Windows 11 allows you to assign graphics performance preferences per app. Setting Assassin’s Creed Valhalla to use high performance can help prevent DirectX issues.

  1. Open Settings (Win + I).
  2. Go to System > Display > Graphics.
  3. Click Browse and select the game’s executable (.exe) file.
  4. After adding the game, click on it and select Options.
  5. Choose High performance and click Save.
  6. Restart your PC and try launching the game again.

Advanced Option: Reinstall DirectX Runtime

If the above steps don’t work, you can manually reinstall the DirectX runtime libraries. This is an advanced step but can fix deep DirectX issues.

  • Visit the official Microsoft DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer page.
  • Download and run the installer.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
  • Restart your computer and test the game.

FAQs

Why does Assassin’s Creed Valhalla show a DirectX 12 error?

This error usually happens because of outdated graphics drivers, corrupted game files, or incompatible system settings related to DirectX 12.

Can I switch to DirectX 11 to fix the error?

Yes, if the game allows it, switching to DirectX 11 can bypass DirectX 12 errors, but it might reduce graphics quality.

Is my PC hardware causing the DirectX 12 error?

Older or unsupported GPUs might not fully support DirectX 12 features, causing errors. Checking your hardware compatibility is important.

Will updating Windows fix DirectX errors?

Often yes, because Windows updates include important fixes and improvements to DirectX and system components.

How do I know if my DirectX version is 12?

Press Win + R, type dxdiag, and press Enter. The DirectX version will be shown at the bottom of the window.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above solutions and still face the DirectX 12 error, consider the following:

  • Contact Ubisoft Support: Visit Ubisoft’s official help page for personalized assistance.
  • Reinstall the Game: Uninstall and reinstall Assassin’s Creed Valhalla to fix deep file corruption.
  • Check for Hardware Issues: Use system diagnostics or consult a professional to ensure your GPU and other components are functioning correctly.
  • Use System Restore: Roll back Windows to a previous state when the game was working, if possible.

Conclusion

DirectX 12 errors in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla on Windows 11 can be frustrating but are usually fixable with simple steps. Start by updating your graphics drivers and Windows, then adjust in-game settings and verify game files. Disabling fullscreen optimizations and setting your game to high performance in Windows can also help.

If these basic fixes don’t work, advanced options like reinstalling DirectX or contacting support are available. By following this guide carefully, you should be able to resolve the error and enjoy your Viking adventure without interruptions.

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