Experiencing issues with Civilization VI not launching can be perplexing, especially when we’re eager to dive into the game. The title, revered for its strategic depth and replayability, sometimes struggles with launch-related glitches that can dampen the spirits of any enthusiast. It’s not uncommon for games like Civilization VI to encounter technical problems, and having a game not starting up is among the more frequent challenges players face.
At the core of troubleshooting are a handful of reliable techniques that often resolve the issue. When our game fails to launch, we check the integrity of game files, look for software updates, or tweak certain settings. Sometimes, the cause could be as simple as a one-time fluke that requires a system restart.
Troubleshooting Steps:
- Verify Integrity of Game Files
- Update Graphics Drivers
- Set Launch Options Directly
We must approach the problem methodically, examining potential issues with our computer’s configuration or the game’s installation. It could range from outdated graphics drivers to corrupted game files. Ensuring our drivers are up to date and that the game’s files are intact are crucial first steps. When these solutions don’t suffice, specific launch options might steer us in the right direction, allowing Civilization VI to start without a hitch.
Contents
Initial Troubleshooting Steps
In tackling the issue of Civilization VI not launching, several immediate actions can be taken to diagnose and potentially rectify the problem. We’ll cover essential steps involving system requirements, game file integrity, and graphics driver updates. These solutions often correct common discrepancies leading to launch failures.
Check System Requirements
| Component | Minimum Requirement | Recommended Requirement |
| Operating System | Windows 7 64bit / 8.1 64bit / 10 64bit | Windows 7 64bit / 8.1 64bit / 10 64bit or newer |
| DirectX | Version 11 | Version 11 or newer |
| Graphics Card | 1 GB DirectX 11 Video Card (AMD 5570 or nVidia 450) | 2 GB DirectX 11 Video Card (AMD 7970 or nVidia 770 or greater) |
Verify Integrity of Game Files
Sometimes the game won’t launch because files are missing or corrupted. To address this, Steam offers a feature to check the integrity of game files. Navigate to your Steam Library, right-click on Civilization VI, select “Properties,” go to the “Local Files” tab, and click on “Verify integrity of game files.” This process ensures all files necessary for the game to run are intact and in their proper place.
Update Graphics Card Drivers
Outdated or corrupted graphics card drivers are a frequent culprit for games not launching. It’s important to have the latest drivers installed for optimal gaming performance and compatibility. You can update your graphics drivers through the Device Manager on Windows. Expand the “Display Adapters” section, right-click on your graphics card, and choose “Update Driver.” Alternatively, you can download the latest drivers directly from the graphics card manufacturer’s website. After updating, a system restart might be necessary to apply the driver updates.
By following these troubleshooting steps, we aim to overcome the initial barriers preventing Civilization VI from launching, ensuring both Windows and Mac users can enjoy their gaming experience.
Advanced Solutions
When troubleshooting Civilization VI not launching, there are several advanced steps we can take to address compatibility issues, permission blocks, and software conflicts.
Adjust Compatibility Settings
- Right-click the Civilization VI shortcut or executable file and select ‘Properties’.
- Go to the ‘Compatibility’ tab.
- Check ‘Run this program in compatibility mode for:’ and select an older version of Windows, such as Windows 7 or 8.
- Apply the changes and try launching the game again.
Run as Administrator
- Right-click on the Civilization VI executable file or shortcut.
- Select ‘Run as Administrator’.
- If the game launches successfully, we can set this to be a permanent setting by again right-clicking the file, selecting ‘Properties,’ navigating to the ‘Compatibility’ tab, and checking ‘Run this program as an administrator.’
Perform a Clean Boot
- Press ‘Win + R’, type ‘msconfig’, and press Enter to open System Configuration.
- Go to the ‘Services’ tab, check ‘Hide all Microsoft services’, and then click ‘Disable all’.
- Navigate to the ‘Startup’ tab and click ‘Open Task Manager’. Disable all unnecessary startup items.
- Restart the computer and try launching Civilization VI again.
After testing the game, don’t forget to reset the PC to start normally by undoing the changes made in System Configuration.
Dealing with Game and Launcher Issues
In our experience, fixing Civ 6 launch issues can involve simple steps such as tweaking launcher settings or, in more persistent cases, reinstalling game and launcher components. We’ll guide you through these procedures to ensure a smooth gaming experience.
Resolve Launcher Problems
- Launch updates: Ensure your game is up-to-date. We sometimes overlook automatic updates, so checking Steam or Epic Games for any pending downloads is vital.
- Steam’s ‘Set Launch Options’: One can adjust specific commands to alleviate launching issues. For example, entering the exact path of the game’s executable in the “Set Launch Options” dialogue might bypass the problem.
- Verifying Game Files: Corrupt or missing game files can be a culprit. Steam offers a “Verify integrity of game files” option, a handy tool that checks and repairs the game’s installation.
- Compatibility and permissions: Running the game as an administrator or in compatibility mode for an older version of Windows can jumpstart a stubborn launcher.
Reinstall Game and Launcher
If dealing with the launcher doesn’t do the trick, reinstalling Civilization VI and its launcher could. The process usually looks like this for us:
- Uninstall: Completely remove Civ 6 and its launcher from your system. Make sure to delete any remaining files, often found in the directory where the game was installed.
- Reinstall: Download and install fresh copies from Steam or Epic Games, and ensure your system meets the required specifications. For Mac users, it is essential to only download the version compatible with your system.
- Graphics driver update: Outdated drivers often cause game crashes. We always recommend updating your graphics card drivers to the latest version available.
- Prevent software conflicts: Disable any software that may conflict with the game. This includes overlay applications or antivirus software that might mistaken game actions for threats.
These strategies have often resolved not launching or “Loading, Please Wait” issues that can frustrate gamers. But keep in mind, issues may still persist due to other underlying problems not addressed here.
When to Contact Support
Experiencing Persistent Issues
We understand how frustrating it can be when Civ 6 won’t launch or crashes. After we’ve walked through the standard troubleshooting steps, like verifying game files and updating drivers, and the issue still isn’t resolved, it’s time to seek further help.
| Issue | Attempted Fix | Next Step |
| Game Crashing | Update/Reinstall Drivers | Contact Support |
| Game Not Launching | Verify Game Files | Contact Support |
| Frequent Freezes | Check System Requirements | Contact Support |
If your Civ 6 is still not launching or frequently crashing, and all software and hardware checks out, it’s time to contact the support team. Have all the information about your system and the troubleshooting steps you’ve carried out handy. This will speed up the support process.
The support team is equipped to handle complex issues that might not be readily solved through public forums or simple fixes. They can offer real-time assistance and guide us through further troubleshooting steps that are more technical. If we encounter errors during these fixes or if the advice received doesn’t work as suggested, we should provide this feedback promptly to move the support process forward.