If you are experiencing a DirectX error while trying to play Apex Legends on your Windows 11 PC, you are not alone. This error can prevent the game from launching or cause unexpected crashes. Fortunately, there are several straightforward ways to fix this issue.
This guide will walk you through simple and effective steps to resolve the DirectX error. Each step is explained clearly, so even if you are not very technical, you can follow along easily.
Before diving into the solutions, it’s important to understand what might cause the DirectX error. It usually relates to graphics drivers, system updates, or corrupted files.
Let’s get started with the easiest fixes and move towards more advanced troubleshooting if needed.
Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks
Before attempting any fixes, make sure your system meets these basic requirements and conditions:
- Windows 11 is up to date: Outdated system files can cause compatibility issues.
- Your graphics drivers are current: Old or corrupted drivers often trigger DirectX errors.
- DirectX version is supported: Apex Legends requires DirectX 11 or higher.
- Check your PC’s hardware: Ensure your graphics card meets the minimum specifications for Apex Legends.
Step 1: Restart Your PC
This might sound simple, but restarting your PC can resolve temporary glitches causing the DirectX error. A fresh start reloads system files and drivers properly.
- Click on the Start menu.
- Select the Power icon.
- Choose Restart.
After your PC restarts, try launching Apex Legends again.
Step 2: Update Windows 11
Windows updates often include important patches for DirectX and system stability. Keeping your OS updated ensures compatibility with modern games like Apex Legends.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Click on Windows Update from the sidebar.
- Click Check for updates.
- If updates are available, click Download and install.
- After installation, restart your PC.
Once updated, check if the DirectX error persists.
Step 3: Update Your Graphics Drivers
Graphics drivers act as a bridge between your game and your graphics card. Outdated or corrupted drivers often cause DirectX errors.
Automatic Update via Device Manager
- Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
- Expand the Display adapters section.
- Right-click your graphics card and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for drivers.
- Follow the prompts and restart your PC if needed.
Manual Update From Manufacturer’s Website
For better performance, downloading the latest drivers directly from the manufacturer is recommended.
- Identify your graphics card model (e.g., NVIDIA GeForce, AMD Radeon, Intel).
- Visit the official website of your GPU manufacturer:
- Download and install the latest driver for your specific model.
- Restart your PC before launching the game again.
Step 4: Run Apex Legends as Administrator
Running the game with administrator privileges can fix permission-related issues that might cause DirectX errors.
- Right-click the Apex Legends shortcut or executable.
- Select Properties.
- Go to the Compatibility tab.
- Check the box for Run this program as an administrator.
- Click Apply and then OK.
- Launch the game again.
Step 5: Verify Game Files in Origin or Steam
Corrupted or missing game files often lead to DirectX errors. Verifying the game files will repair these automatically.
For Origin Users
- Open the Origin client.
- Go to My Game Library.
- Right-click Apex Legends and select Repair.
- Wait for the process to complete, then try launching the game.
For Steam Users
- Open the Steam client.
- Go to Library.
- Right-click Apex Legends and select Properties.
- Click on the Local Files tab.
- Select Verify integrity of game files.
- Wait for the verification to finish and relaunch the game.
Step 6: Reinstall DirectX
Sometimes the DirectX installation on your PC may be corrupted. Reinstalling can fix the underlying problems.
- Download the latest DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer from the official Microsoft site: Microsoft DirectX Download.
- Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Restart your PC after installation.
- Try launching Apex Legends again.
Step 7: Adjust Graphics Settings in Apex Legends
If the game launches but crashes or shows DirectX errors during gameplay, lowering graphics settings can help reduce the load on your system.
- Open Apex Legends.
- Go to Settings > Video.
- Lower settings such as Texture Streaming Budget, Anti-Aliasing, and V-Sync.
- Apply the changes and restart the game.
Advanced Option: Disable Fullscreen Optimization
Windows 11’s fullscreen optimization can sometimes interfere with games. Disabling it might solve DirectX related errors.
- Right-click the Apex Legends shortcut or executable.
- Select Properties.
- Go to the Compatibility tab.
- Check Disable fullscreen optimizations.
- Click Apply and then OK.
- Run the game again.
FAQs
What causes DirectX errors in Apex Legends?
Common causes include outdated graphics drivers, corrupted game or system files, incompatible DirectX versions, and system update issues.
Can I play Apex Legends without DirectX?
No. Apex Legends requires DirectX 11 or higher to run properly.
Is it safe to update graphics drivers manually?
Yes, as long as you download drivers from official manufacturer websites, manual updates are safe and often improve performance.
Will reinstalling Apex Legends fix the DirectX error?
It might, especially if the game files are corrupted beyond repair. Try verifying files first before reinstalling.
Does running the game as administrator improve performance?
Running as administrator mainly fixes permission issues, not performance, but it can resolve certain errors.
How do I check my current DirectX version?
Press Windows + R, type dxdiag, and press Enter. The DirectX version is displayed in the System tab.
When Nothing Works
If you have followed all the steps above and still face the DirectX error, consider these final options:
- Reinstall Apex Legends: Uninstall and reinstall the game completely to ensure all files are fresh.
- Perform a system restore: If the problem started recently, restoring Windows 11 to an earlier point might help.
- Contact EA Support: Visit the official EA Help Center for personalized assistance.
- Check hardware: Faulty RAM or GPU can cause persistent DirectX errors. Consider running hardware diagnostics.
Conclusion
DirectX errors in Apex Legends on Windows 11 can be frustrating but are usually fixable with some simple steps. Start by restarting your PC and updating Windows and your graphics drivers. Verify game files and reinstall DirectX if needed. Adjusting game settings and running the game as an administrator can also help.
By following this step-by-step guide, you can resolve most DirectX errors and enjoy smooth gameplay in Apex Legends. Always keep your system and drivers updated to prevent future issues.