Windows 11 24H2 Update Disrupts Ubisoft Games: Issues & Workarounds

The gaming community is abuzz with whispers of woes as Microsoft's latest Windows 11 update, version 24H2, has foiled the plans of many eager gamers by breaking some of Ubisoft's most beloved titles. If you've recently updated your operating system and find yourself facing a black screen or unresponsive gameplay in titles like Assassin’s Creed Valhalla or Star Wars Outlaws, you’re not alone. Here's a deep dive into what's going on and what you can do about it.

A Quick Overview of the Situation​

On November 25, 2024, Microsoft publicly acknowledged that the rollout of the 24H2 update had caused significant problems for gamers trying to play various Ubisoft games. The company's response came as numerous players reported issues ranging from games freezing during startup to outright crashes mid-play. Titles such as Assassin’s Creed Origins, Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, and Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora are among those affected.

Microsoft’s Advisories​

In a bid to curtail the chaos, Microsoft is making several recommendations to users:

1. Avoiding Manual Updates: Microsoft has explicitly warned users not to use the Windows 11 Installation Assistant or media creation tools to manually install version 24H2 until a solid fix is in place.
2. Temporary Mitigation: Acknowledge the existence of performance hiccups. They’ve rolled out a temporary workaround for Star Wars Outlaws, which may prevent crashes despite potential performance issues lingering.

Multiple reports indicate that some users are experiencing a black screen when trying to launch these games, and Microsoft’s support page explains that "games might become unresponsive while starting, loading, or during active gameplay."

Workaround to Keep Gaming While You Wait​

Gamers looking for a way to keep their sessions alive while Microsoft and Ubisoft work on a permanent fix can try the following temporary solution:

• Open Task Manager:
  • Use the shortcut Ctrl + Shift + Esc or right-click the Start button and select Task Manager.
• End the Unresponsive Game:
  • Locate the game in the Processes tab.
  • Click on it to highlight, then select End Task to close the non-responsive game.

This method acts as a lifeline, allowing you to regain control over your PC and play again, albeit with the acceptance that continued erratic performance might be your reality for the time being.

Implication of Frequent Updates​

This incident raises broader questions about the frequency and robustness of Windows updates, particularly in relation to gaming. Each major update inevitably brings potential compatibility issues with existing software—especially games, which often rely on extensive system resources and unique configurations.
If you're part of the gaming community that relies on Windows 11 for your gaming needs, it’s crucial to stay updated on advisory notes from Microsoft regarding compatibility. As updates release, they must ensure proper dialogues with game developers to minimize user disruption.

Anticipating Future Fixes​

Both Microsoft and Ubisoft have signaled their commitment to addressing the current dysfunction, with promises of an upcoming fix. Gamers will need to be patient, but the timeline remains unclear as real fixes often require extensive testing to ensure they don’t inadvertently cause additional problems.
As the gaming industry evolves and technology progresses, such incidents remind us that even the most sophisticated systems can falter. Frequent patches and updates are a double-edged sword—offering improvements and new features while also risking compatibility hitches.

In Summary​

Currently, if you own Ubisoft titles and have updated to Windows 11 version 24H2, here are some key takeaways:

• Don’t manually install the update if you haven’t done so already.
• Use the temporary workaround to manage any unresponsive games.
• Keep an eye on updates from Microsoft and Ubisoft for future fixes.

In the fast-paced world of gaming and technology, it’s always best to act cautiously and remain informed. Whether you're a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, knowing how to navigate these updates can ensure your gaming experience remains fun. Happy gaming, and may your Assassin's Creed adventures be triumphant once again!

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Source: CGMagazine Windows 11 Update Breaks Some Ubisoft Games, Fix in Progress