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Mass Effect Andromeda Patch 1.06 Issues on Windows 11: How to Fix Errors and Get the Game Working

Mass Effect Andromeda Patch 1.06 was released to improve game stability and fix various bugs. However, many players on Windows 11 have reported issues after installing this update. These errors can prevent the game from launching or cause crashes during gameplay.

If you are experiencing problems with Mass Effect Andromeda on your Windows 11 PC after applying Patch 1.06, you are not alone. Fortunately, there are several straightforward solutions that can help get your game working smoothly again.

This guide will walk you through the most basic and effective troubleshooting steps. Each step is explained clearly to make it easy to follow, even if you are not very tech-savvy.

By following these instructions, you should be able to fix common errors and enjoy Mass Effect Andromeda without interruptions on Windows 11.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Verify Windows 11 Updates: Make sure your operating system is fully updated. Microsoft often releases patches that improve compatibility with games.
  • Check System Requirements: Confirm that your PC meets the minimum requirements for Mass Effect Andromeda, especially after the patch.
  • Update Graphics Drivers: Outdated graphics drivers can cause crashes and errors. Always keep your GPU drivers up to date from NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel official sites.
  • Backup Saved Games: Before making any major fixes, backup your saved game files to avoid data loss.

Step 1: Run the Game as Administrator

Sometimes, Mass Effect Andromeda may not have the necessary permissions to run correctly on Windows 11. Running the game as an administrator can help fix this.

  1. Locate the Mass Effect Andromeda shortcut or executable file (.exe) on your PC.
  2. Right-click the file and select Properties.
  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.

This step ensures the game has sufficient access to system resources and files, which can prevent crashes and errors.

Step 2: Verify Game Files Integrity

If you are using a platform like Steam or Origin, corrupted or missing game files after the patch can cause issues.

Here’s how to verify your game files:

For Steam Users:

  1. Open Steam and go to your Library.
  2. Right-click on Mass Effect Andromeda and select Properties.
  3. Click on Local Files tab.
  4. Click Verify Integrity of Game Files.
  5. Wait for the process to complete, then launch the game.

For Origin Users:

  1. Open the Origin client and go to My Game Library.
  2. Right-click on Mass Effect Andromeda and select Repair.
  3. Origin will check and fix any corrupted files.
  4. Once finished, try running the game again.

Verifying game files can restore any missing or broken data caused by the patch installation.

Step 3: Disable Fullscreen Optimizations and Compatibility Mode

Windows 11 has some features that can interfere with older games. Disabling fullscreen optimizations and compatibility mode may help.

  1. Right-click the game’s executable file and select Properties.
  2. Go to the Compatibility tab.
  3. Uncheck Run this program in compatibility mode if it is checked.
  4. Click Change high DPI settings button.
  5. Check Override high DPI scaling behavior and set it to Application.
  6. Also, check Disable fullscreen optimizations.
  7. Click OK and then Apply.
  8. Launch the game to see if the issue is resolved.

This step can improve the game’s compatibility with Windows 11’s display and scaling settings.

Step 4: Update or Reinstall Visual C++ Redistributables

Mass Effect Andromeda relies on Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable packages to run correctly. Missing or corrupted redistributables can cause crashes.

To fix this:

  1. Press Windows + R keys, type appwiz.cpl, and press Enter. This opens Programs and Features.
  2. Look for all versions of Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable and note their versions.
  3. Go to the official Microsoft website and download the latest supported versions:
    Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Downloads
  4. Install the latest versions for both x86 and x64 architectures.
  5. Restart your computer after installation.
  6. Try running Mass Effect Andromeda again.

Updating these redistributables fixes runtime errors that prevent the game from launching or running smoothly.

Step 5: Adjust Graphics Settings and Disable Overlays

High graphics settings or overlays from software like Discord, Steam, or NVIDIA GeForce Experience can cause conflicts after the patch.

  1. Launch the game and go to its graphics settings.
  2. Lower settings such as textures, shadows, and resolution.
  3. Save changes and restart the game.
  4. Disable overlays by doing the following:
  • Steam Overlay: In Steam, right-click the game, go to Properties > General, and uncheck Enable the Steam Overlay.
  • Discord Overlay: Open Discord, go to User Settings > Overlay, and toggle off Enable in-game overlay.
  • NVIDIA GeForce Experience: Open the application, click the gear icon for settings, and disable In-Game Overlay.

Disabling overlays and lowering graphics can reduce crashes caused by conflicts with the new patch.

FAQs

Q: Why does Mass Effect Andromeda crash after Patch 1.06 on Windows 11?

A: The patch introduced changes that may conflict with Windows 11 settings, outdated drivers, or corrupted game files. Following the steps above usually fixes these conflicts.

Q: Can I play the game without updating to Patch 1.06?

A: It is not recommended, as patches improve stability and fix bugs. However, if the patch causes too many issues, you might consider rolling back temporarily if your platform allows it.

Q: Is Windows 11 fully supported for Mass Effect Andromeda?

A: While not officially listed at launch, the game generally works on Windows 11 with the latest updates and drivers. Some troubleshooting might be necessary.

Q: Will uninstalling and reinstalling the game help?

A: Yes, if corrupted files cannot be fixed by verification, a fresh install can resolve deep issues.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and Mass Effect Andromeda still does not work on your Windows 11 PC, consider these last options:

  • Contact EA Support: Visit the official EA Help website for personalized assistance: EA Help – Mass Effect Andromeda
  • Check Community Forums: Sometimes, other players share fixes for specific errors on platforms like Reddit or EA forums.
  • Rollback Windows Updates: If the problem started after a recent Windows 11 update, temporarily rolling back the update might help.
  • Use Compatibility Mode: Try running the game in Windows 10 compatibility mode as a last resort.

Conclusion

Mass Effect Andromeda Patch 1.06 issues on Windows 11 can be frustrating, but most problems have straightforward fixes. Starting with basic steps like running the game as administrator and verifying game files often solves the problem quickly.

Keeping your system updated, disabling overlays, and adjusting settings further improve stability. If needed, reinstalling redistributables or the game itself can help resolve deeper issues.

Following this guide carefully will get you back to exploring the Andromeda galaxy without technical interruptions. Remember to check official resources and community forums for ongoing support and updates.

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