Alex Ruben
How to Resolve Game Crashes to Desktop on Windows
If you’re experiencing frustrating crashes to the desktop while playing games or rendering, you’re not alone. This guide will walk you through effective troubleshooting steps to fix sudden game shutdowns, eliminate freezing, and resolve crashes without error messages. By following these steps, you can ensure that your gaming experience is smooth and enjoyable.
Before you start, make sure you have administrative privileges on your computer, as some steps will require access to system settings. Additionally, ensure that your Windows operating system is updated to the latest version, as updates can often resolve underlying issues.
Step 1: Run System File Checker
Begin by using the System File Checker (SFC) to repair any corrupted system files that may be causing your games to crash. Here’s how to do it:
- Press the Windows key and type CMD.
- Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
- In the Command Prompt window, type
sfc /scannowand press Enter. - Wait for the scan to complete; this may take some time.
Step 2: Check for Windows Updates
Keeping your operating system updated is crucial for optimal performance. To check for updates, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key and type Check for updates.
- Click on the option that appears and allow Windows to search for and install any available updates.
Step 3: Update Graphics Drivers
Outdated graphics drivers can lead to game crashes. Here’s how to update them:
- Press the Windows key and type Device Manager. Click to open it.
- Expand the Display adapters section.
- Right-click on your graphics card and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for drivers and follow the prompts to install any updates.
For direct downloads, visit the respective websites for your graphics card:
Step 4: Run DISM Tool
If SFC did not resolve the issue, the DISM (Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool) can help fix Windows image problems:
- Open the Command Prompt as an administrator again.
- Type the following command and press Enter:
dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth. - Wait for the process to finish, which can take several minutes.
Step 5: Verify Game Files
Corrupted game files can also lead to crashes. Verify the integrity of your game files through your game platform:
- If using Steam, right-click the game in your library, select Properties, go to the Local Files tab, and click Verify integrity of game files.
- For Epic Games, go to your Library, click on the three dots next to the game, and select Verify.
Step 6: Reinstall the Game
If the previous steps did not resolve the crashes, consider uninstalling and reinstalling the game. This can fix any persistent issues with game files:
- Uninstall the game through the Control Panel or your game platform.
- Once uninstalled, restart your computer.
- Reinstall the game and test to see if the issue is resolved.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
Here are some extra tips that may help improve your gaming experience:
- Ensure your system meets the game’s minimum requirements.
- Close any unnecessary background applications that may be consuming resources.
- Check your hardware for overheating, as this can cause crashes.
Conclusion
By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to resolve the issue of games crashing to the desktop. Keeping your system updated and regularly checking your drivers will help prevent future issues. If problems persist, consider reaching out to the game’s support for further assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my game still crashes after following these steps?
If your game continues to crash, consider checking for hardware issues or reaching out to the game’s customer support for more specific troubleshooting related to your setup.
Can third-party applications cause game crashes?
Yes, some third-party applications, especially overlays or performance boosters, can interfere with game performance. Try disabling these applications while gaming.
Is it necessary to update my operating system for gaming?
Yes, keeping your operating system updated is crucial for ensuring compatibility and performance with the latest games.