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How to Fix Path of Exile Runtime Error on Windows 11: Complete Solutions That Work

Path of Exile is a popular action RPG that many players enjoy on Windows 11. However, some users encounter a runtime error that disrupts gameplay. This error can be frustrating, but it’s usually fixable with a few straightforward steps.

This article will guide you through complete and easy solutions to resolve the Path of Exile runtime error on Windows 11. Each step is explained clearly to help even beginners troubleshoot effectively.

By following these instructions carefully, you can get back to playing without technical interruptions. Let’s start with some quick checks before diving into the fixes.

Understanding why the error occurs will also help prevent future issues and improve your gaming experience.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

Before applying fixes, make sure you complete these simple checks. Sometimes the issue is caused by minor problems that are easy to solve.

  • Restart your computer: A simple reboot can clear temporary glitches affecting the game.
  • Check for Windows updates: Ensure your Windows 11 installation is fully updated to avoid compatibility issues.
  • Verify Path of Exile’s system requirements: Confirm your PC meets the minimum specs for the game to run smoothly.
  • Close unnecessary background programs: Other apps consuming resources or conflicting with the game can cause runtime errors.
  • Run Path of Exile as Administrator: Right-click the game icon and select “Run as Administrator” to give it the needed permissions.

Step 1: Verify Game Files Using the Game Launcher

Corrupted or missing game files often cause runtime errors. Verifying the game files helps fix these problems by checking and repairing the installation.

How to verify game files:

  1. Open the Path of Exile launcher or your game client (such as Steam).
  2. Go to the game library and find Path of Exile.
  3. Right-click the game and select Properties.
  4. In the Local Files tab, click Verify integrity of game files (Steam) or similar option in other launchers.
  5. Wait for the process to complete. The launcher will automatically fix any detected errors.

This step ensures your game data isn’t corrupted, which is a common cause of runtime errors.

Step 2: Update Your Graphics Drivers

Outdated or incompatible graphics drivers can cause runtime errors in games. Updating your drivers ensures better compatibility and performance.

To update your graphics drivers:

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Display adapters section.
  3. Right-click your graphics card (e.g., NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) and choose Update driver.
  4. Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
  5. Follow the on-screen prompts if an update is found.

Alternatively, you can visit the official website of your GPU manufacturer to download and install the latest driver manually. This method sometimes offers the newest version faster than Windows update.

Step 3: Install or Repair Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables

Path of Exile relies on Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable packages to run properly. Missing or corrupted redistributables can cause runtime errors.

To fix this:

  1. Go to Microsoft’s official Visual C++ Redistributable page.
  2. Download the latest versions for both x64 and x86 architectures.
  3. Run the installers and choose the Repair option if available, or install if missing.
  4. Restart your computer after installation completes.

This ensures your system has the necessary runtime components for games and applications.

Step 4: Disable Overlays and Background Applications

Overlays from apps like Discord, Steam, or NVIDIA GeForce Experience can conflict with Path of Exile. Disabling these overlays often resolves runtime errors.

How to disable overlays:

  • Discord: Open Discord > User Settings > Overlay > Turn off “Enable in-game overlay.”
  • Steam: Go to Steam > Settings > In-Game > Uncheck “Enable the Steam Overlay while in-game.”
  • NVIDIA GeForce Experience: Open GeForce Experience > Settings > General > Turn off “In-Game Overlay.”

Also, temporarily close other background apps that might interfere, such as screen recorders or antivirus programs.

Step 5: Run Path of Exile in Compatibility Mode

If the runtime error persists, running the game in compatibility mode for an older Windows version can help. This mode adjusts how Windows handles the game.

Steps to enable compatibility mode:

  1. Right-click the Path of Exile shortcut or executable file.
  2. Select Properties.
  3. Go to the Compatibility tab.
  4. Check the box Run this program in compatibility mode for:.
  5. Select Windows 10 or Windows 8 from the dropdown.
  6. Click Apply and then OK.
  7. Try launching the game again.

This step helps if the game has trouble with the latest Windows 11 environment.

Step 6: Reinstall Path of Exile

If none of the above solutions work, reinstalling the game can resolve deep-seated issues caused by corrupted files or improper installation.

How to reinstall:

  1. Open your game client (Steam or Path of Exile launcher).
  2. Uninstall Path of Exile completely.
  3. Restart your PC to clear any leftovers.
  4. Download and install the game again from the official source.
  5. Launch the game and check if the runtime error is fixed.

Reinstallation resets the game environment to a fresh state, eliminating many errors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why do I get a runtime error only when launching Path of Exile?

This usually happens due to corrupted game files, outdated drivers, or missing system components required by the game.

Is it safe to disable antivirus during the game?

Temporarily disabling your antivirus can help identify if it’s blocking the game. If the game works, add Path of Exile as an exception rather than leaving antivirus off.

Can running the game as administrator fix runtime errors?

Yes, running the game with administrator rights gives it proper permissions to access necessary system files and resources, preventing some errors.

Do I need to update Windows 11 to fix this error?

Keeping Windows updated ensures compatibility and security. Many runtime errors are fixed by installing the latest updates.

What if the game crashes after applying these fixes?

Try rolling back recent driver updates or check the official Path of Exile forums for known issues and patches.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve tried all the steps above and the runtime error persists, consider the following:

  • Check official Path of Exile support: Visit Path of Exile Support for help and troubleshooting guides.
  • Post on community forums: The Path of Exile community and Reddit often have solutions for specific errors.
  • Contact game support directly: Submit a ticket explaining your issue with detailed system information.
  • Perform a clean boot: This starts Windows with minimal drivers and programs, helping identify software conflicts.
  • Consider system file check: Run sfc /scannow in Command Prompt to repair corrupted Windows files.

Conclusion

Path of Exile runtime errors on Windows 11 can be caused by various factors including corrupted files, outdated drivers, or missing system components. Starting with simple checks and moving to more advanced solutions ensures a systematic approach to fixing the problem.

Verifying game files, updating drivers, repairing redistributables, and disabling overlays are often enough to resolve the error. Running the game in compatibility mode or reinstalling it can fix more stubborn issues.

Remember to keep your system and game updated regularly to avoid future errors. If all else fails, official support and community forums are valuable resources for assistance.

With these steps, you should be able to enjoy Path of Exile on Windows 11 without runtime interruptions.

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