Playing games on Windows 10 Creators Update can sometimes be interrupted by bugs and errors. These issues can range from crashes to performance problems. Fortunately, many common problems have simple solutions.
This guide will walk you through easy, step-by-step methods to fix game bugs and errors on your system. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, the instructions are detailed and clear.
By following these steps, you can get back to enjoying your games with minimal hassle. Let’s start by checking a few important things before diving into fixes.
Remember, patience is key when troubleshooting. Small changes can often solve big problems.
Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks
- Update Windows: Ensure your Windows 10 Creators Update is fully updated. Microsoft often releases patches that fix system bugs.
- Check Game Requirements: Verify that your hardware meets the game’s minimum requirements.
- Close Background Apps: Running many applications can slow down or interfere with games.
- Restart Your PC: Sometimes, a simple restart clears temporary issues affecting games.
Step 1: Run the Game as Administrator
Running a game as administrator can solve permission-related errors. This gives the game the necessary rights to access system files and resources.
- Right-click the game’s shortcut or executable file.
- Select
Properties. - Go to the
Compatibilitytab. - Check the box that says
Run this program as an administrator. - Click
Applyand thenOK. - Try launching the game again.
Step 2: Update Graphics Drivers
Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers often cause game crashes and errors. Keeping your drivers updated ensures better game compatibility and performance.
- Press
Windows + Xand selectDevice Manager. - Expand the
Display adapterssection. - Right-click your graphics card and choose
Update driver. - Select
Search automatically for updated driver software. - Follow the prompts to install any available updates.
- Restart your computer after the update.
Alternative method: Visit your graphics card manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel) to download the latest drivers manually.
Step 3: Verify Game Files (For Games on Platforms like Steam)
Game files can sometimes become corrupted or incomplete during installation. Verifying the files repairs these issues.
- Open the game client (e.g., Steam).
- Navigate to your game library and right-click the problematic game.
- Select
Properties. - Go to the
Local Filestab. - Click
Verify Integrity of Game Files. - Wait for the process to complete, then launch the game.
Step 4: Disable Overlays and Background Programs
Overlays (like Discord or Steam Overlay) and background apps can interfere with game performance and stability.
- Close unnecessary programs running in the background.
- Disable overlays via the respective app settings (e.g., turn off Steam Overlay in Steam settings).
- Restart your PC and try running the game again.
Step 5: Adjust Game Compatibility Settings
Sometimes, older games or those not fully optimized for Windows 10 Creators Update need compatibility tweaks.
- Right-click the game executable and select
Properties. - Go to the
Compatibilitytab. - Check
Run this program in compatibility mode for:and selectWindows 7orWindows 8. - Also, check
Disable fullscreen optimizationsto prevent display issues. - Click
ApplyandOK. - Launch the game to test if the issue is resolved.
Step 6: Update DirectX and Visual C++ Redistributables
Many games rely on DirectX and Visual C++ packages. Missing or outdated versions can cause crashes or errors.
- Visit the official Microsoft website to download the latest DirectX End-User Runtime.
- Download and install the latest Visual C++ Redistributables.
- Restart your computer after installation.
Step 7: Check for Windows Updates
Windows updates can include important fixes that improve game compatibility and stability.
- Click the
Startbutton and selectSettings. - Go to
Update & Security. - Click
Check for updates. - Install any available updates and restart your PC.
FAQs
Why does my game keep crashing on Windows 10 Creators Update?
Crashes can be caused by outdated drivers, corrupted game files, or compatibility issues. Following the steps above usually resolves these problems.
How do I know if my graphics drivers are up to date?
You can check through Device Manager or visit your GPU manufacturer’s website for the latest drivers.
Can antivirus software cause game errors?
Yes, sometimes antivirus programs mistakenly block game files. Temporarily disabling your antivirus or adding the game folder to its exceptions can help.
What if the game runs slowly or lags?
Try closing background apps, lowering in-game graphics settings, and ensuring your PC meets the game’s requirements.
Is it safe to run games in compatibility mode?
Yes, compatibility mode is a built-in Windows feature designed to help older applications run smoothly on newer systems.
When Nothing Works
If you’ve tried all the above steps and still face issues, consider the following options:
- Reinstall the Game: Uninstall and reinstall the game to ensure a fresh setup.
- Check Official Forums: Visit the game’s official support forums or websites for known issues and patches.
- Contact Support: Reach out to the game developer’s customer service for personalized help.
- Use Windows Troubleshooter: Go to
Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshootand run the troubleshooter for apps.
Conclusion
Fixing game bugs and errors on Windows 10 Creators Update often starts with simple steps like running the game as administrator and updating drivers. Verifying game files and adjusting compatibility settings are also very effective.
Keeping your system and software up to date is crucial for smooth gaming. If problems persist, don’t hesitate to seek official support or reinstall the game.
With patience and these detailed instructions, you can resolve most common game issues and enjoy a better gaming experience on your Windows 10 PC.