Blog

How to Fix Apex Legends Crashing on Windows 11: Effective Solutions and Troubleshooting Steps

Apex Legends is a popular battle royale game enjoyed by many players worldwide. However, some users experience crashing issues when playing on Windows 11. This can be frustrating, especially when you are in the middle of an intense match.

Fortunately, there are several effective solutions you can try to fix Apex Legends crashing problems. This guide will walk you through simple to advanced troubleshooting steps, designed for all levels of computer users.

By following these steps carefully, you can improve game stability and get back to playing without interruptions. Let’s explore the best ways to resolve Apex Legends crashes on Windows 11.

Before diving into detailed fixes, it’s important to check some basic things first to save time and effort.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

  • Check System Requirements: Ensure your PC meets the minimum system requirements for Apex Legends. Insufficient hardware can cause crashes.
  • Update Windows: Make sure your Windows 11 is fully updated. Updates often fix compatibility issues.
  • Verify Internet Connection: Stable internet is crucial for online games like Apex Legends.
  • Close Background Programs: Close unnecessary apps that might consume resources or conflict with the game.

Step 1: Update Graphics Drivers

One of the most common reasons for game crashes is outdated or corrupted graphics drivers. Your graphics card controls how the game renders visuals, so keeping drivers updated is essential.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Display adapters section.
  3. Right-click your graphics card and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for drivers and follow prompts to install any updates.
  5. Restart your PC after updating.

If Windows doesn’t find an update, visit your GPU manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel) and download the latest driver manually.

Step 2: Repair Game Files via Origin or Steam

Corrupt or missing game files can cause crashes. Repairing the game installation helps replace damaged files.

If you use Origin:

  1. Open Origin and go to My Game Library.
  2. Right-click Apex Legends and select Repair.
  3. Wait for the process to finish, then try launching the game again.

If you use Steam:

  1. Open Steam and go to Library.
  2. Right-click Apex Legends and choose Properties.
  3. Click on Local Files tab and select Verify Integrity of Game Files.
  4. Steam will check and replace any corrupted files automatically.

Step 3: Run Apex Legends as Administrator

Sometimes, the game needs special permissions to run properly. Running as an administrator can help avoid permission-related crashes.

  1. Navigate to your Apex Legends shortcut or executable file.
  2. Right-click the file and select Properties.
  3. Go to the Compatibility tab.
  4. Check the box for Run this program as an administrator.
  5. Click Apply and OK.
  6. Try launching the game again.

Step 4: Disable Fullscreen Optimization

Windows 11’s fullscreen optimization feature can sometimes cause issues with games. Disabling it may improve performance and reduce crashes.

  1. Right-click Apex Legends executable and select Properties.
  2. Open the Compatibility tab.
  3. Check Disable fullscreen optimizations.
  4. Click Apply and OK.

Step 5: Adjust In-Game Settings

High graphics settings can strain your system and cause crashes, especially on older hardware.

  • Lower settings like texture quality, shadows, and anti-aliasing in Apex Legends’ options menu.
  • Try running the game in Windowed or Borderless mode instead of fullscreen.

This reduces resource usage and can stabilize gameplay.

Step 6: Disable Overclocking and Third-Party Overlays

Overclocking your GPU or CPU can cause instability. If you have overclocked your hardware, consider resetting it to default speeds.

Additionally, disable third-party overlays such as Discord, GeForce Experience, or MSI Afterburner during gameplay, as they may interfere with Apex Legends.

Step 7: Reinstall Apex Legends

If none of the above steps work, reinstalling the game might help. Sometimes, a fresh installation resolves deep file corruption or misconfigurations.

  1. Uninstall Apex Legends from Origin or Steam.
  2. Delete any remaining game folders manually (usually in Documents or Program Files).
  3. Restart your PC.
  4. Download and install Apex Legends again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does Apex Legends keep crashing on Windows 11?

Crashes can happen due to outdated drivers, corrupted game files, insufficient hardware, or software conflicts with Windows 11 features.

Is Windows 11 compatible with Apex Legends?

Yes, Apex Legends is compatible with Windows 11, but you need to keep your system and drivers updated for optimal performance.

Can antivirus software cause Apex Legends to crash?

Yes, some antivirus programs may mistakenly block game files. Try adding Apex Legends as an exception in your antivirus settings.

Does running the game in compatibility mode help?

Sometimes running the game in compatibility mode for Windows 10 can help if there are compatibility issues with Windows 11.

How can I check if my PC meets Apex Legends requirements?

Check the official Apex Legends website for minimum system requirements and compare them with your PC’s specifications in Settings > System > About.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above solutions and Apex Legends still crashes on Windows 11, consider these final options:

  • Visit the official EA Apex Legends support page for more help and updates.
  • Check community forums such as Reddit or EA Answers HQ for solutions from other players.
  • Contact EA support directly for personalized assistance.
  • Consider performing a system restore to a previous stable point if the crashes began after recent changes.

Conclusion

Crashing issues in Apex Legends on Windows 11 can be caused by many factors, but most problems can be fixed by updating drivers, repairing game files, and adjusting settings. Always start with simple steps like updating your system and drivers, then move on to more advanced fixes if needed.

By following this guide, you should be able to enjoy smoother and more stable gameplay. Remember to keep your system clean, updated, and free from conflicting software to prevent future crashes.

Leave a Reply