Compatibility Issues with Windows 11 24H2: Intel Gamers Beware

A storm cloud looms over the gaming community as Microsoft’s Windows 11 Version 24H2 has encountered troubling compatibility issues, particularly for users with newer Intel processors. With a laundry list of online shooters and competitive games potentially affected, gamers are left holding their controllers, perplexed and frustrated.

A Major Compatibility Quagmire​

The update has been flagged for causing the notorious "blue screen of death" (BSOD) when playing popular titles such as Apex Legends, Call of Duty, Fortnite, Destiny, and even car games like Rocket League and Asphalt 8. Specifically, players using Intel’s 12th-gen Alder Lake CPUs or newer, as well as those utilizing Intel's vPro platform, are at risk.

The Culprit: Easy Anti-Cheat​

At the heart of the problem is Easy Anti-Cheat, a kernel-level anti-cheat software that several games depend on. Microsoft explicitly warns that "in rare cases," launching these games will lead to crashes, displaying the ominous error ‘MEMORY_MANAGEMENT’. The tech giant has advised that those using Easy Anti-Cheat drivers released before April 2024 are particularly affected. In a protective measure, Microsoft has implemented a compatibility hold to prevent users with these problematic setups from downloading the 24H2 update.

What This Means for Gamers​

While Microsoft has announced that it is actively working on a fix for this compatibility issue, the reality remains grim for gamers eager to enjoy their favorite titles with the latest Windows features. In addition to blocking the update for users with affected games, this compatibility hold extends to those operating Asphalt 8.

Additional Intel Compatibility Concerns​

Beyond the gaming fiasco, Microsoft also disclosed issues affecting Intel's Smart Sound Technology drivers on 11th Gen Core processors. Users experiencing malfunctions with driver versions 10.29.0.5152 or 10.30.0.5152 may resolve their problems by updating to the latest versions.

What’s New in Windows 24H2?​

Despite these setbacks, the 24H2 update isn’t all doom and gloom. It brings to the table several new features aimed at enhancing user experience:

• Support for Wi-Fi 7
• Bluetooth audio enhancements
• Revamped File Explorer
• New Remote Desktop capabilities

However, these exciting features can't overshadow the current snafus, especially for those reliant on their systems for high-stakes gaming.

Previous Update Woes​

This situation isn’t isolated. A previous update (KB5043145) had already initiated chaos with users reporting crashes, reboot loops, and connection drops across USB and Bluetooth devices. Thankfully, Microsoft has acted on this by providing fixes through the Known Issue Rollback service, but with the ever-complicated world of OS updates, users are understandably nervous.

Conclusion: Hold Your Updates​

For now, the best advice for any gamer running on Intel's latest CPUs is a cautious one: hold off on installing the Windows 11 24H2 update if you rely on games that utilize Easy Anti-Cheat or the Asphalt series until Microsoft rolls out a fix. It’s a classic case of being caught between the excitement for new OS features and the stark realities of compatibility troubles.
In a world where updates are meant to enhance performance and security, it seems some users are just left holding the bag—and potentially a broken gaming experience. For gamers committed to playing their favorite titles without the interruption of BSODs, it's wise to remain vigilant and stay updated on Microsoft's resolutions to these newly identified issues.
Source: PCMag Windows 11 Version 24H2 Faces Intel Issues, May Causes Games to Crash