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How to Fix FIFA 21 System Requirements Error on Windows 11: Complete Troubleshooting Guide

Many FIFA 21 players on Windows 11 encounter system requirements errors that prevent the game from launching or running smoothly. These errors can be frustrating, especially when you are eager to play. Fortunately, there are simple ways to troubleshoot and fix these issues.

This guide will walk you through step-by-step solutions, starting from the easiest checks to more detailed fixes. You don’t need to be a tech expert to follow along.

By carefully following these instructions, you can quickly resolve the system requirements error and get back to enjoying FIFA 21 on your Windows 11 PC.

Let’s begin by understanding some quick checks that can save you time before diving into more technical solutions.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Verify Minimum System Requirements: Ensure your PC meets FIFA 21’s minimum specs — this includes CPU, RAM, graphics card, and storage space.
  • Update Windows 11: Make sure your operating system is fully updated, as missing updates can cause compatibility issues.
  • Check for Sufficient Disk Space: FIFA 21 needs enough free space to install and run smoothly.
  • Confirm Game Version: Running an outdated version of FIFA 21 may trigger errors; update the game via the official platform.

Step 1: Update Your Graphics Drivers

Graphics drivers are crucial for running games. Outdated or incompatible drivers often cause system requirements errors.

  1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Display adapters section.
  3. Right-click your graphics card and choose Update driver.
  4. Select Search automatically for updated driver software and follow the prompts.

If Windows can’t find a newer driver, visit the manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel) to download and install the latest version manually.

Why this matters: Updated drivers provide better compatibility and performance improvements, helping FIFA 21 recognize your hardware correctly.

Step 2: Enable DirectX 12 and Update Visual C++ Redistributables

FIFA 21 requires DirectX 12 and certain Visual C++ packages to run. Missing or corrupted components can cause errors.

  1. Press Win + R, type dxdiag, and press Enter.
  2. Check the DirectX version at the bottom of the System tab; it should be 12 or higher.
  3. If DirectX 12 is missing, run the DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer.
  4. Download and install the latest Visual C++ Redistributables (both x86 and x64).

Why this matters: These components allow FIFA 21 to communicate properly with your system’s hardware and software environment.

Step 3: Run FIFA 21 as Administrator and Check Compatibility Mode

Sometimes Windows settings prevent FIFA 21 from accessing necessary system functions.

  1. Locate the FIFA 21 shortcut or executable file.
  2. Right-click it and select Properties.
  3. Go to the Compatibility tab.
  4. Check Run this program as an administrator.
  5. Also, try enabling Run this program in compatibility mode for Windows 10 if the error persists.
  6. Click Apply and then OK.

Why this matters: Running as administrator can bypass security restrictions that block access to critical files or services.

Step 4: Disable Background Applications and Antivirus Temporarily

Other programs running on your PC might interfere with FIFA 21, causing system errors.

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. Under the Processes tab, close unnecessary apps, especially resource-heavy ones.
  3. Temporarily disable your antivirus or firewall to see if they are causing the conflict.
  4. Try launching FIFA 21 again.

Important: Remember to re-enable your antivirus after testing to keep your system secure.

Step 5: Verify Game Files Through Origin or EA Desktop

Corrupted or missing game files can trigger system requirements errors.

  1. Open the Origin or EA Desktop app.
  2. Go to My Game Library and find FIFA 21.
  3. Right-click the game and select Repair or Verify game files.
  4. Wait for the process to complete and try running the game again.

Why this matters: Repairing the game ensures all necessary files are intact and correctly installed.

Alternative Method: Use Windows Compatibility Troubleshooter

If manual compatibility settings don’t help, Windows has a built-in troubleshooter that can detect and fix compatibility issues.

  1. Right-click the FIFA 21 executable file and select Troubleshoot compatibility.
  2. Follow the on-screen instructions to let Windows suggest settings.
  3. Test the recommended compatibility mode to see if the error disappears.

FAQs

Q1: Why does FIFA 21 say my system does not meet requirements even though it does?

This can happen due to outdated drivers, missing system updates, or corrupted game files. Following driver updates and verifying game files usually fixes this.

Q2: Can I run FIFA 21 on integrated graphics?

FIFA 21 has minimum GPU requirements. Integrated graphics might work on low settings but can cause errors if they don’t meet the minimum DirectX or VRAM needs.

Q3: Does Windows 11 fully support FIFA 21?

Yes, but since Windows 11 is newer, some hardware or drivers may need updates for full compatibility.

Q4: How often should I update my graphics drivers?

It’s good practice to update drivers every few months or when experiencing game issues.

Q5: What if I get a DirectX error when launching FIFA 21?

Make sure DirectX 12 is installed and that your GPU supports it. Updating drivers and installing the DirectX End-User Runtime often resolves this.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all steps and still face system requirement errors, consider these final options:

  • Visit the official EA FIFA 21 Help Center for specific support articles and updates.
  • Check online forums like EA Answers HQ or Reddit for community advice.
  • Ensure your hardware is not failing by running diagnostics or consulting a technician.
  • Consider reinstalling Windows 11 if system issues persist beyond FIFA 21.

Conclusion

Fixing FIFA 21 system requirements errors on Windows 11 is mostly about ensuring your PC software and drivers are up to date and that the game files are intact. Starting with basic checks like driver updates and running the game as an administrator can solve most problems.

Remember to verify game files and keep your system components current. If issues remain, using compatibility troubleshooting tools or seeking official support can help you get back on the pitch without hassle.

By following this guide carefully, you should be able to resolve system errors and enjoy FIFA 21 smoothly on your Windows 11 machine.

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