The saga of Windows updates continues, and the latest chapter involves the newly launched Windows 11 24H2 update, which appears to be at odds with some popular online games. Notably, Microsoft has taken the unprecedented step of blocking this update on certain PCs to prevent frustrating gameplay issues. If you're a PC gamer, you may want to pay close attention, as the resolution might not be as simple as merely updating your system.
As Microsoft clarifies, “Some devices using Easy Anti-Cheat stop responding and receive a blue screen,” indicating a serious issue known as the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), which is a complete lock-up of the system. But it’s not all doom and gloom—this bug seems limited to specific conditions.
The Asphalt 8 issue, on the other hand, presents a more straightforward problem as the game intermittently freezes and crashes, adding to the frustrations of eager gamers trying to stay docked and ready for action in their favorite titles.
In the case of games utilizing Easy Anti-Cheat, your best course of action would be to check for patches—developers usually bundle the latest EAC updates with their game's most recent update. It's worth noting that if a developer hasn't pushed the latest EAC build, that liability falls on them, not Microsoft.
If you're affected by these issues, keeping your Windows system updated and checking for game patches is vital. While it’s frustrating to hit a speed bump like this in the gaming arena, it’s a reminder that the world of operating system updates is fraught with challenges and surprises, especially for enthusiastic gamers who demand seamless performance.
The landscape is always changing, so stick around and keep your eyes peeled for any further developments as Microsoft works to iron out these kinks in the gaming fabric of Windows 11 24H2. Don't let your favorite games fall victim to the notorious blue screen!
Source: TechRadar Microsoft admits Windows 11 24H2 could play havoc with some online games – and it’s blocked the update for affected PCs
What's Happening with Windows 11 24H2?
Windows 11 24H2 has been rolling out cautiously, but reports of bugs have begun to surface, particularly impacting those who engage heavily in online gaming. According to the Windows release health status dashboard, the problematic areas include compatibility with Asphalt 8 and issues tied to Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC), a widely used anti-cheat tool in many popular games like Fortnite and Apex Legends.As Microsoft clarifies, “Some devices using Easy Anti-Cheat stop responding and receive a blue screen,” indicating a serious issue known as the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), which is a complete lock-up of the system. But it’s not all doom and gloom—this bug seems limited to specific conditions.
Who Is Affected?
It's noteworthy that not every game utilizing EAC is affected; the problem specifically strikes games running an older version of the anti-cheat software—those versions predating April 2024. Additionally, this issue is primarily a concern for users with Intel CPUs, particularly the Alder Lake processors and newer. Thankfully, those sporting AMD Ryzen processors appear to have dodged this bullet.The Asphalt 8 issue, on the other hand, presents a more straightforward problem as the game intermittently freezes and crashes, adding to the frustrations of eager gamers trying to stay docked and ready for action in their favorite titles.
What Can You Do?
For those unlucky enough to have Asphalt 8 installed or an outdated version of EAC, the Windows 11 24H2 update will remain hidden from Windows Update until Microsoft resolves these compatibility flaws. You may be tempted to uninstall Asphalt 8 to unblock the update, but that may not necessarily be a straightforward escape, given the phased rollout of the update.In the case of games utilizing Easy Anti-Cheat, your best course of action would be to check for patches—developers usually bundle the latest EAC updates with their game's most recent update. It's worth noting that if a developer hasn't pushed the latest EAC build, that liability falls on them, not Microsoft.
Beyond Gaming: Other Issues with 24H2
While gaming issues take center stage, there are other notable bugs associated with the 24H2 update. Reports indicate erratic behavior in fingerprint sensors, problems with applications that customize wallpapers, and various compatibility hiccups involving PCs equipped with Intel Smart Sound Technology (SST) drivers. Thankfully, none of these issues currently present themselves as showstoppers, but it's still early in the update's rollout cycle.Final Thoughts
As Windows 11 continues to roll out its enhancements and features, it's critical for users, especially gamers, to remain informed about potential issues. The cautious approach Microsoft has taken with the 24H2 update—particularly concerning gaming—reflects their recognition of how serious these compatibility problems can become.If you're affected by these issues, keeping your Windows system updated and checking for game patches is vital. While it’s frustrating to hit a speed bump like this in the gaming arena, it’s a reminder that the world of operating system updates is fraught with challenges and surprises, especially for enthusiastic gamers who demand seamless performance.
The landscape is always changing, so stick around and keep your eyes peeled for any further developments as Microsoft works to iron out these kinks in the gaming fabric of Windows 11 24H2. Don't let your favorite games fall victim to the notorious blue screen!
Source: TechRadar Microsoft admits Windows 11 24H2 could play havoc with some online games – and it’s blocked the update for affected PCs
