Windows 11 24H2 Update Issues: Ubisoft Games Face Major Bugs

  • Thread Author
Microsoft's recent release of the Windows 11 24H2 update has caused quite a stir—though perhaps not in the way they had hoped. This critical update, which rolled out last month, is supposed to bring enhancements and a performance boost, especially for AMD Ryzen users, but it comes with a catch: several Ubisoft titles, including the much-anticipated Star Wars Outlaws, are experiencing significant bugs that could leave players stuck in limbo.

The Glaring Issue​

As confirmed by Microsoft on November 22nd, 2024, users who have installed certain Ubisoft games may find these titles becoming unresponsive. This isn't just an isolated incident; it’s a known issue that has drawn the ire of gamers looking to upgrade. While Microsoft was excited about the myriad benefits of version 24H2, this update's fallout has sparked concern across the gaming community, turning the excitement into frustration.

Affected Titles​

The list of impacted games from Ubisoft is notably heavy-hitting, featuring:
  • Assassin's Creed Valhalla
  • Assassin's Creed Origins
  • Assassin's Creed Odyssey
  • Star Wars Outlaws
  • Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora
Gamers have reported that these titles often hang during startup, loading sequences, or even during gameplay itself. If you've already clicked the 'update' button, you might be looking at a game of patience while Microsoft and Ubisoft scramble for solutions.

Microsoft’s Response​

To mitigate the issue, Microsoft has introduced a precautionary measure: a compatibility hold. This means that systems with any of the affected Ubisoft titles will not be automatically offered the 24H2 update, which is indeed a relief for many. However, if you've already upgraded, you’ll need to tread carefully.

A Temporary Fix​

Ubisoft has acted swiftly by deploying a hotfix for Star Wars Outlaws via a recent update intended to patch up some of the most egregious bugs. But it doesn’t end there; reports indicate that while this fix is in motion, some players may still experience performance hiccups. For gamers whose Ubisoft titles have succumbed to the dreaded 'unresponsive' state, the workaround currently suggested is to terminate the game through the Task Manager. While effective, it's hardly intuitive or satisfying—similar to getting a "please wait" message while trying to make a delicious homemade dinner.

What This Means for Gamers​

The World of Windows 11 may feel like a rollercoaster for many gamers. The significant performance improvements touted with the 24H2 rollout are overshadowed by these compatibility issues with popular titles. This highlights an essential aspect of gaming on Windows: the intricate dance between updates and software compatibility.

Navigating Forward​

For those with a library of Ubisoft games, it’s best to hold off on the update if you can, especially if you're planning to dig into one of the affected titles. It may also be worth checking Ubisoft's forums or support channels for additional guidance and updates on fixes and patches for these frustrating bugs.
Moreover, it’s an opportunity for players to reflect on how they manage updates in a gaming ecosystem that is ever-evolving. Are you game savvy enough to balance improvements with stability, or do you lean into the latest updates without a second thought? This incident serves as a reminder to scrutinize updates, particularly when beloved games are in the mix.

Final Thoughts​

The saga surrounding Star Wars Outlaws and the other affected Ubisoft titles is a perfect example of the unpredictable landscape of gaming on Windows 11. It’s a mix of thrill and trepidation—a reminder that even in a world teeming with technological advancement, gamers may still find themselves dodging obstacles like a character in a high-stakes chase scene.
As Microsoft and Ubisoft work to resolve these issues, players around the world will be contemplating their next moves. Will you stand by your favorite franchises and hope for a speedy resolution, or will you keep your gaming rig on the prior version until the dust settles? Whatever you choose, stay tuned to ensure you're always in the know about the latest updates and patches impacting your gaming experience on Windows 11.

Source: PC Guide "Some Ubisoft games" including Star Wars Outlaws are bugged on Windows 11 24H2 and will block your upgrade