Endless Space 2 is a popular strategy game that many enjoy playing on Windows 11. However, some users face issues where the game does not start or crashes unexpectedly. This guide will help you troubleshoot and fix common problems to get the game running smoothly again.
We will go through simple steps first, then move to more advanced solutions. Each step is explained clearly, so even if you’re not very tech-savvy, you can follow along easily.
Before diving into fixes, it’s important to check a few basic things to save time. These quick checks often resolve the problem without complicated procedures.
Let’s start by ensuring your system is ready to run Endless Space 2 without issues.
Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks
- Check system requirements: Make sure your PC meets the minimum requirements for Endless Space 2 on Windows 11. This includes CPU, RAM, graphics card, and storage space.
- Update Windows: Running the latest Windows 11 updates can fix compatibility problems. Go to Settings > Windows Update and install any available updates.
- Verify game files: If you use Steam or another platform, verify the integrity of the game files to ensure none are missing or corrupted.
- Close background apps: Some programs running in the background may interfere with the game. Close unnecessary apps before launching Endless Space 2.
Step 1: Run the Game as Administrator
Sometimes, Endless Space 2 may not have the necessary permissions to run properly. Running the game as an administrator can solve this issue.
- Locate the game shortcut or executable file (usually in the Steam folder or installation directory).
- Right-click the file and select Properties.
- Go to the Compatibility tab.
- Check the box that says Run this program as an administrator.
- Click Apply and then OK.
- Try launching the game again.
This gives the game elevated permissions that may be required to access certain system resources.
Step 2: Update Graphics Drivers
Outdated or incompatible graphics drivers commonly cause games to crash or fail to start. Updating your GPU drivers can often fix these problems.
- Identify your graphics card model (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel).
- Visit the official website for your GPU manufacturer.
- Download and install the latest drivers compatible with Windows 11.
- Restart your PC after installation.
- Launch Endless Space 2 again.
Updated drivers improve game performance and fix bugs related to graphics rendering.
Step 3: Disable Fullscreen Optimizations
Windows 11 includes a feature called Fullscreen Optimizations that can sometimes interfere with older games.
- Right-click the Endless Space 2 executable or shortcut and select Properties.
- Go to the Compatibility tab.
- Check the box for Disable fullscreen optimizations.
- Click Apply and then OK.
- Try running the game again.
Disabling this option can help fix crashes or black screen issues.
Step 4: Verify Game Files (Steam)
If you installed the game through Steam, corrupted or missing files can cause it not to work. Steam has a built-in tool to check and fix these files.
- Open Steam and go to your Library.
- Right-click on Endless Space 2 and select Properties.
- Click on the Local Files tab.
- Select Verify integrity of game files.
- Wait for Steam to complete the process.
- Launch the game after verification is done.
This process replaces any damaged or missing files automatically.
Step 5: Disable Antivirus or Add Game to Exceptions
Sometimes antivirus software mistakenly blocks game files. Temporarily disabling your antivirus or adding Endless Space 2 to exceptions can help.
Important: Only disable antivirus if you are certain about the safety of your game files.
- Open your antivirus program.
- Find the settings for exceptions, exclusions, or trusted apps.
- Add the Endless Space 2 installation folder or executable file to the exceptions list.
- Alternatively, disable the antivirus temporarily before launching the game.
- Remember to enable antivirus protection again after testing.
Step 6: Update DirectX and Visual C++ Redistributables
Games like Endless Space 2 rely on Microsoft DirectX and Visual C++ Redistributables to run correctly. Missing or outdated versions can cause crashes or failure to launch.
- Download the latest DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer from the official Microsoft website.
- Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Similarly, download and install the latest Visual C++ Redistributables (both x86 and x64 versions) from Microsoft.
- Restart your PC after installation.
- Try launching the game again.
Step 7: Run the Game in Compatibility Mode
If the game still does not work, try running it in compatibility mode for an earlier version of Windows.
- Right-click the game executable or shortcut and select Properties.
- Navigate to the Compatibility tab.
- Check Run this program in compatibility mode for:
- Select Windows 10 or Windows 8 from the dropdown menu.
- Click Apply and then OK.
- Launch the game.
This method forces the game to use settings compatible with previous Windows versions, which can solve compatibility issues on Windows 11.
FAQs
Q: Why does Endless Space 2 crash on startup?
A: Crashes can be caused by outdated drivers, corrupted game files, or conflicts with other software. Following the troubleshooting steps above usually resolves these issues.
Q: Can Windows 11 cause compatibility problems with Endless Space 2?
A: While Windows 11 is generally compatible, some older games may experience issues. Using compatibility mode or updating system components often fixes this.
Q: How do I know if my graphics drivers are outdated?
A: If you experience frequent crashes, low performance, or graphical glitches, your drivers might be outdated. Checking the GPU manufacturer’s website for the latest drivers is recommended.
Q: Is it safe to disable antivirus when playing games?
A: Temporarily disabling antivirus can help diagnose if it’s causing conflicts. However, always re-enable it after testing and only download games from trusted sources.
Q: What if the game still doesn’t work after all these steps?
A: Proceed to the “When Nothing Works” section below for final options.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the steps above and Endless Space 2 still refuses to work on your Windows 11 PC, consider the following final options:
- Reinstall the game: Uninstall Endless Space 2 completely, then reinstall it fresh. This can fix deep file corruption issues.
- Check official forums and support: Visit the Endless Space 2 official forums or support page. Developers and community members may have solutions specific to your problem.
- Contact customer support: Reach out to the game’s customer support with detailed information about your issue and your PC specifications.
- Consider system restore: If the game worked before, restoring your system to an earlier point might help.
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Conclusion
Endless Space 2 not working on Windows 11 can be frustrating, but most issues are fixable with some simple troubleshooting. Start by checking system requirements and updating essential drivers. Running the game as administrator, verifying files, and adjusting compatibility settings often solve common problems.
If these steps don’t help, exploring antivirus settings, updating system software, or reinstalling the game can provide a solution. Remember that official support channels are valuable resources when facing persistent issues.
By following this guide carefully, you can enjoy Endless Space 2 on your Windows 11 PC without interruptions.