Quick answer
Start with the official pinned crash guidance for your platform, then change one variable at a time: update the GPU driver, verify the installation, test the recommended Proton or runtime setting, and record the result before changing anything else.
Version and source notesUpdated 2026-09-05 · Current for this version
- Updated
- 2026-09-05
- Works with
- PC, Steam, Microsoft Store/Game Pass, and Linux reports
- What this guide covers
- Platform branches keep official fixes separate from community workarounds
- Version notes
- Recheck pinned support threads after every major patch
- Update status
- Current for this version
Pick the right branch
| Symptom | First action | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Crash at launch | Check official launch-crash guidance and GPU driver | Intel-specific reports have their own thread |
| Black screen or missing adapter | Confirm DirectX 12/GPU support and runtime components | Linux results vary by distro and Proton version |
| Game Pass save question | Confirm the Microsoft Store/Game Pass build and save location | Do not assume Steam paths or achievements transfer |
| Crash after loading a save | Test a fresh save, then keep the original backup | A reload can distinguish a transient state from a repeatable bug |
Linux and Proton notes
Community reports show both successful and failing Proton setups, including distro and runtime differences. Treat a Proton workaround as a tested community path, not a universal fix. Record your distro, GPU, Proton version, and launch options when asking for help.1
Safe recovery order
- Update the game and GPU driver.
- Verify files through the store client.
- Back up saves before deleting or recreating a prefix.
- Test the official pinned workaround for your hardware.
- Change one launch option or compatibility layer at a time.
- Report the exact error and successful/failed step.
For in-game crashes or tutorial blockers, use Patch notes and known issues and Crash fixes.
Sources and caveat
Official support threads are the anchor for confirmed workarounds; Linux and Game Pass behavior remains platform-sensitive. This page avoids promising compatibility for hardware or distros that have not been verified. When the symptom is ambiguous, use Find my fix.