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How to Fix Microsoft Games from Crashing: A Comprehensive Guide

Experiencing frustrating game crashes is a common issue that plagues gamers, particularly those playing titles through the Microsoft Store. It can be incredibly disruptive to a gaming session, leaving you wondering what went wrong. The good news is that in many cases, you can troubleshoot and fix these crashes yourself. Here’s a comprehensive approach to resolving the problem and getting back to gaming smoothly.

Initial Troubleshooting Steps

Before diving into more complex solutions, start with these fundamental fixes:

Restart Your Computer: This simple yet effective step often resolves temporary glitches and frees up system resources. A fresh boot can clear out any lingering processes that might be interfering with your game.
Verify Game Installation: Ensure your game is installed correctly. Corrupted game files are a major culprit behind crashes. Try uninstalling and reinstalling the game through the Microsoft Store to ensure a clean installation.
Check System Requirements: Make sure your PC meets or exceeds the minimum system requirements for the game. Insufficient RAM, an underpowered graphics card, or an older processor can lead to crashes. Compare your computer’s specifications with the game’s requirements.
Update Your Graphics Drivers: Outdated or corrupted graphics card drivers are a frequent cause of game crashes. Visit the website of your graphics card manufacturer (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel) to download and install the latest drivers.

Advanced Troubleshooting Methods

If the initial steps don’t resolve the crashes, try the following advanced techniques:

Operating System & Software Updates

Update Windows: Make sure your Windows operating system is up to date. Operating system updates often include bug fixes, performance enhancements, and compatibility improvements. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for any available updates.
Close Unnecessary Apps and Tabs: Having too many applications running simultaneously can strain your system’s resources. Close any unnecessary apps or browser tabs before launching your game.
Run Games in Administrator Mode: Granting the game administrator privileges can sometimes resolve permission-related issues that may cause crashes. Right-click on the game’s executable file, and select “Run as administrator.”

System & Hardware Checks

Check Internet Connection: A poor or unstable internet connection can lead to crashes in online multiplayer games or games that rely on cloud services. Ensure you have a stable and reliable internet connection.
Scan for Viruses and Malware: Malicious software can cause system instability and game crashes. Use a reputable antivirus program to scan your system for any malware.
Stop Overclocking: If you have overclocked your CPU or GPU, revert to the default clock speeds. Overclocking can sometimes lead to system instability, causing games to crash.
Cool Computer Overheating: Overheating hardware can lead to game lockups, crashes, and performance issues. Ensure your PC has proper airflow and that your fans are working correctly. Clean out dust from vents and internal components.
Run a Memory Check: Faulty RAM can cause all sorts of problems, including game crashes. Use the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool to check for any issues with your RAM.

Microsoft Store & App Specific Fixes

Clear the Microsoft Store Cache: Accumulated cache data can sometimes interfere with the Microsoft Store and its apps. To clear it, press Windows key + R, type wsreset.exe, and hit Enter. This will reset the Microsoft Store cache.
Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Windows Store Apps and click on “Run the troubleshooter.” This tool can automatically detect and fix common issues with Microsoft Store apps.
Reset Microsoft Store: If the above does not work, try resetting the app completely. Press the “Windows” key, search for “Microsoft Store”, right-click, and choose “App settings”. Scroll down until you see a “Reset” button and click it.

System File & Hardware Analysis

Run System File Checker: Corrupted system files can cause game crashes. Open Command Prompt as administrator, type sfc /scannow and press enter. This will scan and repair any corrupt system files.
Check your Hardware: Faulty hardware, especially a failing power supply unit (PSU), can lead to game crashes. If your PSU isn’t providing enough power, games could crash due to insufficient power.

How to Identify the Cause of the Crash

If the crashes persist, use these steps to identify the source of the problem:

Check the Event Viewer: Go to the Windows Start button, search for “Event Viewer,” and open it. Go to Windows Logs > Application. Look for error messages related to the game crashes. The Event ID and source information might provide clues about the cause of the issue.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why are my Microsoft games crashing even though my computer meets the minimum requirements?

While meeting the minimum requirements is essential, sometimes, even if you meet them on paper, the components can still be overwhelmed. Other factors, like outdated drivers, background apps, or hardware issues, can contribute to crashes. Also, be mindful of recommended specs not just minimum.

2. Can overheating cause games to crash?

Yes, overheating is a common cause of game crashes. When your CPU or GPU gets too hot, it can lead to performance issues, lockups, and ultimately, crashes. Ensure adequate cooling is in place.

3. Can bad RAM cause games to crash?

Absolutely. Faulty RAM can cause numerous problems, including game crashes, blue screens of death, and corrupted files. Testing and replacing RAM may be necessary.

4. How do I know if my graphics card driver is outdated?

You can usually tell by visiting the manufacturer website or utilizing any utility they provide. Some software will even alert you when an update is available. Outdated drivers can cause games to crash. Check NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel websites.

5. What does clearing the Microsoft Store cache do?

Clearing the cache can help fix performance issues and issues where the store and its games do not properly work. It removes temporary files and can help fix corrupt data related to the store.

6. Will too much RAM hurt my gaming experience?

In most cases, having more RAM is better for gaming. While an excess of it may not bring further benefit, it will not hurt your system. In some rare cases, over allocation can cause instability.

7. Why does my game keep crashing after a Windows update?

Sometimes, a Windows update can introduce compatibility issues with your game or drivers. Try updating your graphics drivers or rolling back the Windows update to see if that resolves the problem.

8. Why is every game crashing on PC?

If every game is crashing, it’s likely due to an issue with your PC, not just one game in particular. It often points to a driver issue, hardware problems, or an issue with the operating system.

9. Can a power supply unit (PSU) issue cause game crashes?

Yes, absolutely. An inadequate or failing PSU can prevent components from getting sufficient power, often leading to game crashes.

10. Can viruses or malware cause games to crash?

Yes, malicious software can interfere with game performance and system stability, causing crashes. Scan your system with an antivirus program.

11. How can I stop background programs from causing crashes?

To stop background apps from causing crashes, close all unnecessary programs before playing games. Use the task manager to see running programs.

12. Can a weak internet connection cause single-player games to crash?

In some instances, yes. Games with DRM or cloud services may rely on a stable internet connection. A weak connection may cause issues if those services are required.

13. How do I disable safe mode on my Android?

Safe mode is usually disabled by restarting the device. Once you reboot in safe mode, restarting the device again will return it to normal operation.

14. What causes apps to stop responding?

A variety of reasons can cause apps to stop responding, such as not enough memory, corrupted app data or caches, and conflicts with other software.

15. Is Windows 11 causing my games to crash?

While Windows 11 is stable in most cases, it’s possible that incompatibilities can cause game crashes. Ensure your game and graphics drivers are compatible, or try using Windows 10.

By diligently following the troubleshooting steps and FAQs above, you can effectively resolve most game crashing issues and get back to your gaming sessions with minimal disruption. Remember to always keep your software up to date and monitor your system health for optimal performance.

How do I fix Microsoft games from crashing?