Windows 11 24H2 Update Causes Assassin's Creed Games to Freeze

If you're a fan of Ubisoft's iconic Assassin's Creed series, here's some potentially frustrating news: the latest Windows 11 24H2 update seems to be wreaking havoc on popular titles like Assassin's Creed Origins, Odyssey, and Valhalla. Gamers across the board have been reporting frequent freezing and unplayable performance in these games, turning smooth adventures into glitch-ridden misadventures.
Are you about to rage-quit Windows 11, or is there light at the end of this update-induced tunnel? Here’s an in-depth look at the problem, where it might stem from, and potential fixes to get you back to climbing towers and performing stylish assassinations.

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The Issue: Why Are Assassin's Creed Games Freezing?​

For many fans, Assassin's Creed games represent the apex of cinematic storytelling coupled with open-world exploration. However, the Windows 11 24H2 update seems to have tripped up this gaming utopia. All three flagship titles (Origins, Odyssey, and Valhalla) have been plagued by freezing and performance issues post-update.
So, why is this happening?

• Driver Conflicts: The Windows 11 24H2 update likely includes updates to DirectX, driver architectures, or system-surrounding resources like virtual memory management, which may not play nice with Ubisoft’s game engines.
• Game Optimization Delays: Ubisoft, like most game developers, periodically updates its titles for compatibility with new OS builds. If you’re a die-hard fan, you’ll know Ubisoft is no stranger to post-launch patches. Delays in game revisions can leave titles vulnerable to new OS-level changes.
• Unannounced Compatibility Breakdowns: Microsoft is notorious for rolling out seemingly benign updates that disrupt specific applications, from enterprise-grade software to AAA games.

The common thread? It’s likely not your fault as the player. The issue seems rooted in how the 24H2 update alters your system’s software landscape, likely without enough coordination with Ubisoft.

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Potential Fixes: What Can You Do?​

The freezing issues have turned Assassin’s Creed from an immersive experience to a crash-inducing ordeal. Unfortunately, neither Microsoft nor Ubisoft have offered direct fixes as of now. But all hope is not lost! Here are some temporary workarounds and possible repairs you can try:

1. Avoid Updating to Windows 11 24H2​

If you’re still on Windows 11 version 23H2 (or earlier), you can dodge this bullet completely by delaying the update. This ensures you won’t encounter the issues plaguing 24H2 users.
How to delay updates:

• Go to Settings > Windows Update > Pause Updates to temporarily hold off on installing new builds.
• Alternatively, use Group Policy Editor (for Windows Pro/Enterprise users) to defer feature updates for several months.

If only we could leap into the Animus and assassinate the 24H2 update, right?

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2. Rollback to Windows 11 23H2​

Already updated to 24H2 and feeling the pain? Consider reverting to the previous version of Windows 11. Here’s how you can roll back within the 10-day grace period after installing the update:

1. Click the Start menu and open Settings.
2. Navigate to System > Recovery.
3. Under recovery options, click Go Back and follow the prompts.

Important Note: Rolling back can lead to compatibility issues with other programs. Always back up your data before reverting.

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3. Reinstall Older Versions with a Windows ISO (Post-10-Day Period)​

If it’s been more than 10 days since the update, the rollback option may no longer be available. Don’t worry—you can still revert by doing a clean install of Windows 11 23H2 using an ISO (disc image) file.
Steps:

• Download a trusted Windows 11 23H2 ISO file. Sadly, Microsoft’s official site only hosts the latest build, so you’ll need to find older files from third-party sources.
• Follow a fresh installation guide for Windows 11, ensuring you back up all important files.

Be mindful of the risks when downloading ISOs from unofficial sources. Stick to reputable sites known for clean software distribution.

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4. Wait for Patches​

Both Ubisoft and Microsoft are likely (fingers crossed!) aware of the issue and working on fixes. Historically, it’s just a matter of time before hotfixes or patches roll out to bring affected titles back to life.
Gamers who can exercise patience might want to wait this one out and rely on occasional updates to Windows or Assassin's Creed titles.

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5. Hardware and Software Tweaks​

If you’re stuck with 24H2 but keen to game on, here are more advanced solutions you can attempt:

• Update Graphics Drivers: Head to your graphics card manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) and ensure you have the latest drivers installed. With new OS versions, updated GPU drivers are critical.
• Verify/Repair Game Files:
  • Open your game launcher (Steam, Ubisoft Connect, etc.).
  • Select the affected game, and run a Verify Files check to repair corrupted or mismatched files.
• Disable Resource-Hogging Features: Temporarily disable Windows 11’s new multitasking or performance-enhancing features, which could be contributing to game freezes.

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Is It Just Assassin’s Creed?​

Interestingly, reports suggest that other high-profile games, such as Star Wars Outlaws, are also struggling post-update. The issues seem broader than just Ubisoft titles and hint at a widespread compatibility problem with Windows 11 24H2.
The frustration is palpable for anyone gaming on a Windows-based machine. What was supposed to be the perfect blend of optimized hardware and software is devolving into a patchwork quilt of compatibility issues, making gamers question if newer Windows updates are worth the hassle.

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Final Thoughts: Should You Update or Wait It Out?​

For gamers, the decision is a tough one:

• Want the latest Windows 11 features? Brace yourself for potential hiccups.
• Prefer smooth gaming? Skip the 24H2 update until it’s officially patched.

It’s a classic case of risk vs. reward. As it stands, Ubisoft titles like Origins, Odyssey, and Valhalla are the latest victims of Microsoft’s evolving operating system. A quick fix might not arrive overnight, so users should weigh their options carefully.
What’s your solution? Did rolling back help, or are forum discussions buzzing with secret remedies you’ve stumbled upon? Let’s get the conversation going—share your experiences or ideas about combating this Windows-induced debacle below.

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Source: Sportskeeda Assassin's Creed Origins, Odyssey, and Valhalla freezing on Windows 11 24H2 update: Causes and possible fixes