Microsoft Pauses Windows 11 Updates for Ubisoft Games: Issues Revealed

In an unexpected twist that has left gamers scratching their heads, Microsoft has made the decision to pause the rollout of Windows 11 updates for users who have certain Ubisoft titles installed. If you've been enjoying the likes of Assassin's Creed Valhalla, Assassin's Creed Origins, or Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora, you might want to buckle up, because this development could affect your gaming experience significantly.

What’s the Issue?​

The latest reports indicate that users running Windows 11 version 24H2 have been encountering a smorgasbord of issues when trying to play some popular Ubisoft games. The problems are no trivial matter either: complaints range from games becoming unresponsive during startup or while being played, to downright black screens. Not to mention, performance drops have also been noted, frustrating gamers aiming for smooth gameplay.
The heart of the issue seems rooted in compatibility conflicts between these games and the new Windows 11 update. Ubisoft’s latest release, Star Wars Outlaws, has been noted as particularly problematic. Other titles in the line of fire include Assassin's Creed Odyssey and Assassin's Creed Valhalla—games that have garnered massive followings and are staples in many gamers' libraries.

Microsoft’s Response​

To mitigate these cycles of chaos, Microsoft has implemented a compatibility check as part of its update protocol. If you have any of the affected Ubisoft games installed, the Windows 11 24H2 update will simply be held back. Essentially, this means that players won’t be able to proceed with the update until a resolution is reached, either through Microsoft or Ubisoft.
As of now, neither company has provided a specific timeline for when these issues might be resolved. This puts gamers in an uncertain situation—especially as we approach those holiday gaming marathons.

What To Do If You’re Affected​

For those who have already upgraded to Windows 11 24H2 and are facing problems, there’s a glimmer of hope (or at least a stop-gap solution) from Microsoft. The company suggests users open Task Manager, find the unresponsive game in the Processes tab—then highlight it and click on End Task to regain control of their system. This workaround may help salvage some gaming sessions, but it’s certainly not a fix.

Simple Steps to Recover Your System:​

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Navigate to the Processes tab.
3. Locate the affected game (such as Assassin's Creed Valhalla).
4. Click on the game, then select End Task.

You should find your system's responsiveness restored, albeit at the cost of your gaming session.

The Bigger Picture​

This situation highlights a pertinent issue: the delicate balance between software updates and compatibility with existing applications. As gamers increasingly rely on their rigs for entertainment and social interaction, businesses like Microsoft and Ubisoft must ensure smooth consultative processes that prioritize user experience.
Additionally, this incident begs the question—do software updates need to come with more comprehensive compatibility assessments? With the vast array of hardware and software configurations, finding a one-size-fits-all solution can be a Herculean task.

Conclusion​

As we await further developments, it’s crucial for gamers to stay in the loop regarding both Windows updates and game patches from Ubisoft. This situation is especially poignant as many players might wish to dive headfirst into immersive gaming experiences during the holiday season. Just remember, whether you’re slaying foes in ancient Rome or navigating new worlds in Avatar, keeping your systems and games compatible is key to an enjoyable gaming experience.
Stay tuned for updates, and may your gaming sessions be free from technical hitches!

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Source: HotHardware Why Microsoft Is Blocking Windows Updates If You Play Ubisoft Games