Fixing Launch and Crash Issues in Assassin’s Creed Shadows: A Guide

If you’re encountering crashes or launch issues with Assassin’s Creed Shadows on your PC, PlayStation, or Xbox, you’re not alone. These technical problems have left many players frustrated, but you’ve come to the right place for solutions. This guide will help you troubleshoot and resolve these issues, allowing you to immerse yourself in the game without further disruptions.

1. Solutions for Launch and Crashing Issues in AC Shadows

Solutions to Launch and Crashing Issues in AC Shadows | Source: Ubisoft

Many players have reported a variety of technical issues since the launch of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, including crashes, frame rate drops, and even the inability to start the game. Fortunately, several straightforward fixes are available to tackle these problems:

PC Solutions: Run Steam as an administrator, power cycle your PC, or repair your game files.
Console Solutions: Restart your console, check for updates, reinstall the game, clear the cache, manage storage, disable power-saving modes, verify server status, or reach out to customer support.
General Solutions: Run the game as an administrator, make sure to update it, close heavy resource applications, toggle your VPN, allow antivirus exceptions, and keep your operating system and drivers up to date.

i. How to Fix Launch Problems in Assassin’s Creed Shadows (PC and Console)

Solutions to Launch Problems in Assassin's Creed Shadows — Solutions to Launch Problems in Assassin’s Creed Shadows | Source: Ubisoft

For PC Users:

Step 1: Run Steam as Administrator

To resolve permission-related issues, run Steam with administrative privileges:

Exit Steam.
Locate the Steam icon on your desktop, right-click it, and select ‘Run as Administrator’.

Step 2: Power Cycle Your PC

Power cycling can rectify temporary glitches that might hinder launch:

Turn off your PC and disconnect the power cable.
Wait for five minutes before reconnecting and rebooting your system.

Step 3: Repair Game Files

Corrupted files can lead to significant launch issues:

For Ubisoft Connect: Go to the Library, click the three dots under Assassin’s Creed Shadows, select ‘Manage’, and choose ‘Verify files’.
For Steam: Right-click on the game in your library, select ‘Properties’, navigate to the ‘Installed Files’ tab, and click ‘Verify integrity of game files’.

For PS5/Xbox Users:

Step 1: Restart Your Console

A simple restart can often solve issues:

Turn off your console, wait 30 seconds, then power it back on.

Step 2: Check for Updates

Make sure both your console and Assassin’s Creed Shadows are up-to-date:

For PS5, navigate to Settings > System > System Software > Update.
For Xbox, go to Settings > System > System Update.

Step 3: Reinstall the Game

If the issue persists, consider deleting and reinstalling it from your console’s store.

Step 4: Clear Cache

This can fix loading issues:

Press and hold the PS/Xbox button, select “Clear Cache”from the menu, and follow the prompts.

Step 5: Manage Storage

Insufficient storage space can prevent games from launching. Check your storage and delete unnecessary data if needed.

Step 6: Disable Power Saving Mode

Power-saving settings might also interfere:

For PS5: Navigate to Settings > System > Power Saving > Rest Mode and disable it.
For Xbox: Go to Settings > System > Power Saving > Power Mode and disable it.

Step 7: Verify Server Status

Server outages can hinder gameplay. Visit the official Assassin’s Creed Shadows website or their social media channels for updates.

Step 8: Contact Support

If all else fails, reaching out to Ubisoft’s support may provide the assistance you need.

ii. How to Address Crash and Performance Problems in Assassin’s Creed Shadows (PC Only)

Solutions to Crash and Performance Problems in Assassin's Creed Shadows — Solutions to Crash and Performance Problems in Assassin’s Creed Shadows | Source: Ubisoft

Solution 1: Restart Your PC

Rebooting your machine can resolve temporary glitches triggering crashes.

Solution 2: Run the Game with Admin Privileges

Granting elevated permissions can assist in accessing necessary game features. Adjust settings in the game’s properties to run as an administrator.

Solution 3: Keep the Game Updated

Make sure you’re on the latest version of Assassin’s Creed Shadows by checking the game launcher for updates.

Solution 4: Close Unnecessary Background Programs

Freeing up system resources can help ameliorate performance issues:

Open Task Manager with Ctrl + Shift + ESC.
Identify and end resource-heavy processes.

Solution 5: Toggle Your VPN

Switching your VPN on or off can resolve connectivity-related issues that might be causing crashes.

Solution 6: Allow Game Exceptions in Your Antivirus

To prevent false positives, add Assassin’s Creed Shadows to the exceptions list in your antivirus software.

Solution 7: Update Windows and Drivers

Keeping your operating system and drivers current is crucial for compatibility:

Check for Windows updates and update your graphics drivers.

Solution 8: Reach Out to Support

If issues persist, contacting Ubisoft support can provide further troubleshooting steps.

Visit the official Assassin’s Creed Shadows website.
Click on ‘Support’ to submit a ticket or describe your issues via email.

By following these recommendations, players can effectively troubleshoot and resolve launch issues and crashes in Assassin’s Creed Shadows across all platforms.

2. About Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Assassin’s Creed Shadows, scheduled for release on November 15, 2024, is the latest addition to Ubisoft’s iconic franchise, developed by Ubisoft Quebec. This forthcoming title represents the fourteenth major installment in the series, succeeding the 2023 release of Assassin’s Creed Mirage and embracing the new Assassin’s Creed: Infinity platform.

Set against the backdrop of 16th-century Japan during the waning days of the Sengoku period, players will experience the ongoing battle between the Assassin Brotherhood, which strives for peace and freedom, and the Templar Order, which seeks control through enforced peace. Players will assume the roles of two protagonists: Naoe, a skilled female shinobi, and Yasuke, an African samurai whose character draws inspiration from the historical figure of the same name.

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