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Steam Games Won’t Launch on Windows 10: Easily Fixed
These tested solutions will make Steam games work again in no time
5 min. read
Updated onOctober 2, 2024
updated onOctober 2, 2024
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A few users have complained that Steam games are not launching on Windows 10; we present all you need to know to resolve this error on your device.
Microsoft made the latest Windows OS a gamer-friendly operating system with game streaming, recording, and a great Xbox One app.
But this Steam issue, among a few others, may reduce or ruin the experience.
Why are Steam games not working in Windows 10?
When Steam games are not working, we first recommend you verify if the servers are working fine using a dedicated website likeSteamStatus, though it’s not the official one.
Also, it could be that you are trying to play a game duringSteam Maintenance Tuesday, which is not working.
If the servers are doing fine and others can play the game, check the game files. Corruptions with these affect the game’s performance; in some cases, the fun won’t launch.
If you run the game through the standalone launcher, it could lead to issues, though unlikely. But try running the game from the Steam app itself to be sure.
Besides, outdated drivers, misconfigured settings, running an older version of the game, Steam, or the OS, are all possible reasons why Steam games won’t launch on Windows 10.
The OS is a very gaming-friendly Windows edition. With that said, you do not expect any adverse effect on games, even though manufacturers are always likely to fine-tune their applications for new updates.
What can I do if Steam games are not launching on Windows 10?
1. Update your drivers and DirectX
It won’t do any harm if you head to Device Manager, right-click on the graphics card under Display Adapter, and see if there are any driver updates.
The same goes forDirectX, as you can check if the latest version is installed. However, updating drivers manually can be a long process, especially if you are a newbie.
Powerful driver updating software, such asPC HelpSoft Driver Updaterallows you to scan for outdated drivers, download fresh ones, and ensure they never go out of date again by notifying you about this as soon as it finds new driver versions.
⇒Get PC HelpSoft Driver Updater
2. Verify the integrity of all game files
3. Update Windows
Microsoft pays much attention to gaming and considers gamers a valuable part of the Windows community.
Therefore, the company includes some threats for gamers in every major update for Windows 10.
Are you having trouble updating your Windows 10? If you don’t know what to do about themissing Check for updates button, our tips will help you solve the issue in no time.
4. Reset PC
Verify that the Steam games not launching has been fixed on your Windows 10 device.
5. Run the game as Administrator
Verify that the Steam games not launching has been fixed on your Windows 10 device.
These few fixes may help ifnothing happens when you click on theRun as administrator.
6. Run games in the compatibility mode
That’s it! If Steam games don’t launch in Windows 10 earlier, they will now.
If you encounter any other Steam errors, we recommend you look at thisin-depth guide dedicated to fixing commonSteamerrors on Windows. We also have a great guide onerror code 20 on Steam, so feel free to visit it.
How is your gaming experience in Windows 10 after applying the above troubleshooting tips? Share that with us in the comments area below.
Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Passionate about all elements related to Windows and combined with his innate curiosity, Ivan has delved deep into understanding this operating system, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
When he’s not tackling diverse driver-related problems, Ivan enjoys watching good movies and spending time hiking with his family and friends.
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Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Ivan has delved deep into understanding the Windows OS, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
