If you’re experiencing issues where Call of Duty: Cold War causes your Xbox Series X to shut off while playing on Windows 11, you’re not alone. This problem can be frustrating but is often fixable with some straightforward troubleshooting.
This guide will walk you through simple and effective steps to help resolve this issue. Each step is explained clearly so even beginners can follow along without confusion.
By following these instructions, you can improve your gaming experience and reduce crashes or unexpected shutdowns. Let’s start with some quick checks before diving into detailed solutions.
Remember, patience and careful implementation of each step increase your chances of success.
Quick Note: What to Check Before You Begin
- Ensure your Windows 11 is fully updated. System updates often include fixes for hardware compatibility and performance issues.
- Check your Xbox Series X firmware. Make sure your console’s software is up to date to avoid compatibility problems.
- Confirm that your Cold War game is the latest version. Game patches frequently address bugs that can cause crashes or shutdowns.
- Verify your PC meets the minimum requirements. Running the game on underpowered hardware can cause instability.
Step 1: Restart Your Devices
Often, a simple restart can resolve temporary glitches causing shutdowns. Begin by turning off your Xbox Series X and your Windows 11 PC completely.
- Power down your Xbox Series X by holding the Xbox button on the console for 10 seconds until it turns off.
- Restart your Windows 11 PC by clicking Start > Power > Restart.
- After both devices reboot, launch Cold War again and check if the issue persists.
This step resets temporary memory and can clear minor conflicts between your PC and console.
Step 2: Check Network Connection and Xbox App Settings
Cold War uses the Xbox app on Windows 11 to connect to your console for streaming or remote play. Network issues or incorrect app settings can cause the Xbox to shut off unexpectedly.
- Open the Xbox app on your Windows 11 PC.
- Go to Settings > General and ensure the “Allow streaming” option is enabled.
- Check your network connection. A stable and fast internet connection is essential for smooth gameplay and communication between devices.
- If you use Wi-Fi, try switching to a wired Ethernet connection to reduce latency and disconnections.
Unstable connections might cause the Xbox to shut down as a safety or error response.
Step 3: Adjust Power Settings on Xbox Series X
Your Xbox’s power settings can influence how it behaves during remote play or streaming sessions. Incorrect settings may lead to shutdowns.
- On your Xbox Series X, press the Xbox button to open the guide.
- Navigate to Profile & system > Settings > General > Power mode & startup.
- Set the power mode to Instant-on. This mode allows the console to maintain network connections necessary for remote play.
- Disable any auto-shutdown or energy-saving settings that might turn off the console during inactivity.
This adjustment helps keep your Xbox awake and responsive during gaming sessions controlled from Windows 11.
Step 4: Update Graphics Drivers on Windows 11
Outdated or corrupt graphics drivers can cause crashes or shutdowns when running demanding games like Cold War.
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand the Display adapters section.
- Right-click your graphics card and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software and follow prompts.
- Alternatively, visit your GPU manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel) for the latest drivers.
Keeping drivers updated ensures better compatibility with the latest games and Windows updates.
Step 5: Disable Background Applications
Running many background programs can cause system overloads or conflicts that might lead to shutdowns.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Under the Processes tab, look for non-essential applications consuming high CPU, memory, or network resources.
- Right-click these applications and select End task.
- Try running Cold War again after closing unnecessary programs like web browsers, streaming apps, or antivirus scans.
This ensures your PC dedicates more resources to running the game smoothly.
Step 6: Reinstall Call of Duty: Cold War
If the problem persists, the game files might be corrupted. Reinstalling the game can fix corrupted or missing files.
- Open the Xbox app or Battle.net launcher (depending on where you installed Cold War).
- Find Call of Duty: Cold War in your library.
- Uninstall the game completely.
- Restart your PC.
- Reinstall Cold War and check if the Xbox still shuts off when playing.
This step ensures you have a fresh, clean installation of the game.
Alternative Method: Use Xbox Console Companion App
If you are using the Xbox app and face issues, try switching to the older Xbox Console Companion app for streaming and remote play. Some users report better stability with this app.
- Download and install the Xbox Console Companion app from the Microsoft Store.
- Log in with your Xbox account.
- Connect to your Xbox Series X and try playing Cold War again.
This alternative may reduce unexpected shutdowns caused by app compatibility issues.
FAQs
Why does my Xbox Series X shut off when I play Cold War on Windows 11?
It could be due to overheating, software bugs, network instability, or power settings causing the console to turn off for protection.
Can overheating be a cause?
Yes, if your Xbox gets too hot, it may shut down automatically. Make sure your console is in a well-ventilated area.
Does Windows 11 affect Xbox streaming?
Windows 11 is compatible with Xbox streaming, but outdated drivers or apps can cause issues that lead to shutdowns.
Will updating the game fix the problem?
Often yes. Developers release patches to fix bugs that can cause crashes and shutdowns.
Is it safe to change power settings on Xbox?
Yes, adjusting power mode to Instant-on is recommended for remote play and will not harm your console.
When Nothing Works
If you’ve tried all the steps above and your Xbox Series X still shuts off while playing Cold War on Windows 11, consider the following:
- Perform a full factory reset on your Xbox Series X as a last resort. Remember to back up your data.
- Contact Xbox Support or visit the official Xbox support site for professional assistance.
- Check community forums like Reddit or the official Call of Duty forums for similar issues and fixes.
These resources can provide tailored help or inform you of any ongoing issues with specific game or console updates.
Conclusion
Unexpected shutdowns while playing Cold War on Xbox Series X via Windows 11 can be caused by multiple factors including software, hardware, and network issues. Starting with simple actions like restarting devices and checking updates often resolves the problem.
Adjusting power settings, updating drivers, and managing background apps further improve stability. If necessary, reinstalling the game or switching streaming apps may help. Always ensure your devices are properly maintained and updated.
By following this step-by-step guide, you should be able to enjoy your gaming sessions without interruptions. Remember, if all else fails, official support and community forums are valuable resources.