Civilization 6 is a popular strategy game enjoyed by many players around the world. However, running it smoothly on Windows 11 can sometimes be a challenge. If you find that Civilization 6 is not working properly on your Windows 11 PC, don’t worry — there are several simple fixes you can try.
This guide will walk you through easy and effective solutions to get your game running again. Each step is explained clearly, so even if you’re not very tech-savvy, you can follow along without confusion.
By following these instructions, you should be able to identify the problem and fix it quickly. Let’s get started on restoring your Civilization 6 gaming experience.
Read through this article carefully and try the steps in order, from the simplest to the more advanced. This approach will save you time and frustration.
Quick Note: What to Check Before You Begin
- System Requirements: Make sure your PC meets the minimum system requirements for Civilization 6 on Windows 11. This includes sufficient RAM, CPU power, and GPU capability.
- Game Updates: Confirm that Civilization 6 is fully updated to the latest version. Developers often release patches to fix bugs and improve compatibility.
- Windows Updates: Ensure your Windows 11 is up to date. Sometimes, missing system updates can cause games to crash or fail to launch.
- Check for Conflicting Software: Antivirus programs or other software can sometimes interfere with game files. Temporarily disabling them might help identify the issue.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Before diving into complex solutions, simply restart your PC. This basic step can clear temporary glitches in your system that prevent games from launching or running smoothly.
Why restart? When you reboot, Windows closes all running processes and refreshes system resources. This often resolves minor conflicts and frees up memory.
Step 2: Run Civilization 6 as Administrator
Sometimes, Civilization 6 needs elevated permissions to access certain files or settings. Running the game as an administrator can fix permission-related issues.
- Right-click the Civilization 6 shortcut or executable file.
- Select Properties.
- Go to the Compatibility tab.
- Check the box labeled Run this program as an administrator.
- Click Apply and then OK.
- Try launching the game again.
This step ensures the game has all required permissions to run properly on Windows 11.
Step 3: Verify Game Files Through Steam
If you installed Civilization 6 through Steam, corrupted or missing game files can prevent it from working. Steam provides a handy tool to verify and repair these files.
- Open the Steam client and go to your Library.
- Right-click on Civilization 6 and select Properties.
- Go to the Local Files tab.
- Click on Verify Integrity of Game Files.
- Wait for Steam to scan and repair any damaged files.
- Once done, try launching the game again.
This process is important because missing or corrupted files can cause crashes or prevent the game from starting.
Step 4: Update Graphics Drivers
Outdated or faulty graphics drivers are a common cause of game issues. Updating your GPU drivers ensures compatibility and better performance.
Here’s how to update your drivers:
- 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.
- Follow the on-screen instructions if an update is found.
- Restart your PC after updating.
- Try running Civilization 6 again.
Alternatively, you can visit the manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel) to download the latest drivers manually.
Step 5: Disable Fullscreen Optimizations
Windows 11 has a feature called Fullscreen Optimizations that can sometimes interfere with games. Disabling it for Civilization 6 might help.
- Right-click on the Civilization 6 executable or shortcut.
- Select Properties.
- Go to the Compatibility tab.
- Check the box for Disable fullscreen optimizations.
- Click Apply and OK.
- Launch the game and check if the problem persists.
This adjustment can reduce input lag and fix graphical glitches caused by Windows’ optimization features.
Step 6: Temporarily Disable Antivirus or Firewall
Sometimes, antivirus software or Windows Firewall blocks game files mistakenly, causing crashes or preventing launch.
To test this:
- Temporarily disable your antivirus program (refer to your antivirus documentation).
- Open Windows Security by searching in the Start menu.
- Go to Firewall & network protection.
- Choose your active network and turn off the firewall temporarily.
- Try launching Civilization 6.
If the game works after disabling these, add Civilization 6 to the exceptions or whitelist to prevent future blocks.
Step 7: Run the Game in Compatibility Mode
If Civilization 6 still does not work, try running it in compatibility mode for a previous version of Windows.
- Right-click the Civilization 6 shortcut or executable.
- Click Properties and go to the Compatibility tab.
- Check the box Run this program in compatibility mode for:
- Select Windows 10 from the dropdown.
- Click Apply and OK.
- Try launching the game again.
This helps if the game has not been fully optimized for Windows 11 yet.
FAQs
Why does Civilization 6 crash on Windows 11?
Crashes can be caused by outdated drivers, corrupted game files, or software conflicts. Following the steps above usually resolves these issues.
Can I play Civilization 6 on any Windows 11 PC?
Your PC must meet the minimum system requirements. Check CPU speed, RAM, and graphics card compatibility to ensure smooth gameplay.
How do I update Civilization 6?
If you use a platform like Steam, the game updates automatically when connected to the internet. Otherwise, check the official website or launcher for updates.
Is it safe to disable antivirus or firewall?
Disabling security software temporarily is safe for troubleshooting but should not be left off permanently. Always re-enable after testing.
What if the game is still not launching after these fixes?
Further troubleshooting may be needed, including reinstalling the game or contacting official support.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the above steps and Civilization 6 still does not work on your Windows 11 PC, consider these final options:
- Reinstall the game: Uninstall Civilization 6 completely and then reinstall it to fix any deep file corruption.
- Check official forums: Visit the Civilization 6 community forums or Steam discussion boards for advice from other users and developers.
- Contact Support: Reach out to 2K Games or Firaxis support teams for professional help tailored to your specific issue.
- Use Windows Compatibility Troubleshooter: Right-click the game executable, choose Troubleshoot compatibility, and follow the wizard.
Conclusion
Fixing Civilization 6 on Windows 11 is often straightforward when you follow a logical troubleshooting process. Start with simple steps like restarting your PC and running the game as administrator. Then verify game files, update your graphics drivers, and adjust compatibility settings if needed.
Remember to keep your system and game updated and check for software conflicts. If all else fails, reinstalling the game or seeking official support can resolve stubborn problems.
With patience and the right guidance, you’ll be back to leading your civilization to victory in no time.