The First Descendant Crashing On Startup

2 min read 27-12-2024

Many players are reporting issues with The First Descendant crashing on startup. This frustrating problem can stem from various sources, ranging from outdated drivers to conflicting software. This guide will walk you through troubleshooting steps to get you back into the game.

Identifying the Problem

Before diving into solutions, it's crucial to pinpoint the exact nature of the crash. Does the game freeze completely, resulting in a forced system shutdown? Or does it simply close unexpectedly to the desktop, leaving no error message? Knowing this will help narrow down potential causes.

Common Symptoms:

Immediate Crash: The game closes as soon as you launch it.
Partial Load Crash: The game starts loading, then crashes before reaching the main menu.
In-Game Crash: The game crashes after reaching the main menu or during gameplay. (This is a different issue and requires separate troubleshooting.)
Error Messages: Note any specific error messages displayed before or during the crash. This information can be invaluable for diagnosing the problem.

Troubleshooting Steps

Let's start with the most common fixes:

1. Update Graphics Drivers

Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers are a leading cause of game crashes. Visit the websites of either NVIDIA or AMD (depending on your graphics card) and download the latest drivers for your specific model. A clean installation is recommended—this involves completely removing the old drivers before installing the new ones.

2. Verify Game Files

Game files can become corrupted during download or installation. Most game launchers (like Steam or Epic Games Store) have a built-in verification tool. Use this tool to check the integrity of your game files and automatically repair any corrupted data.

3. Check System Requirements

Ensure your computer meets The First Descendant's minimum system requirements. Running the game on hardware that significantly underperforms can lead to instability and crashes. Review the game's official website for the exact specifications.

4. Close Background Applications

Numerous background applications can compete for system resources, potentially causing conflicts and crashes. Close unnecessary programs before launching The First Descendant to free up memory and processing power.

5. Update Windows

Outdated operating systems can lack necessary compatibility features. Ensure your Windows is updated to the latest version, including all security and performance patches.

Advanced Troubleshooting

If the basic steps don't resolve the issue, consider these more advanced options:

Reinstall the Game: A clean reinstall can often solve problems caused by corrupted game files.
Update DirectX: An outdated DirectX version might cause compatibility issues. Download and install the latest version from Microsoft's website.
Run as Administrator: Try running the game executable as administrator. This can grant the game the necessary permissions to access system resources.
Check for Overheating: Overheating components can lead to crashes. Monitor your CPU and GPU temperatures while playing. If they are excessively high, consider improving your system's cooling.

Seeking Further Assistance

If you've tried these steps and are still experiencing crashes, reach out to the game's official support channels or online communities for further assistance. Providing detailed information about your system specifications and the error messages encountered will help others diagnose the problem more effectively. Remember to always back up your important data before attempting any major system changes.