Frequently Asked Questions

[Windows] Game Crash or Abnormal Shutdown

In the event that your game shuts down abnormally and you are returned to the desktop, it is likely that the game was shut down because the computer was unable to run a certain process. Please try these steps to see if they resolve the issue:

■ Toggle between Windowed mode and Full Screen mode
Programs → SQUARE ENIX → FINAL FANTASY XIV → Launch FINAL FANTASY XIV Config
Configuration Button → Screen Settings Tab → Change settings in Screen Mode
It is possible that changing the screen mode will allow the program to run properly.

■ Lower the resolution
From the FINAL FANTASY XIV Config and the in-game config menu, you can change settings to reduce graphical processes, such as shadows and texture quality.

■ Update graphics drivers
If the graphics drivers are outdated, the game may not run properly.
If using a commercial computer, check the help manual when updating.
If using a home-built computer, update the relevant drivers for your graphics card, typically found on the manufacturer's website.

■ Disable security programs and firewalls for the game program
There is a possibility that security programs and firewalls are interfering with the game program. Please disable these programs or add FINAL FANTASY XIV as an exception before attempting to run FINAL FANTASY XIV. Especially following installation or version updates, game files may be targeted by these functions.

■ Close any running applications
Because other applications may interfere with your installation, close all other running apps before running the installation file. You can perform a clean boot to ensure no other background programs are interfering with the installation by doing the following:

 - Open the Task Manager and select the 'Start Up' Tab. Disable everything here and restart the PC.

■ Remove peripheral devices to create a simpler environment for the program to run
Remove any peripheral USB devices (gamepads, cameras, microphones, headsets, etc.) to create a more stable, simple environment for your computer to run the program. If the situation improves, update the driver software for the removed devices. Consult the help manual of your peripheral device for instructions on updating the drivers or related software.

■ Reinstall FINAL FANTASY XIV
If the installed data has been corrupted, the issue may be resolved by re-installing the program.

If you have played before, make sure to remove or rename the 'Final Fantasy XIV' folder in the 'My Documents' → 'My Games' folder. You can re-download the Windows game client at the following link: http://www.finalfantasyxiv.com/playersdownload/na. Steam users should re-install from their Steam Library.

We recommend that the game be installed on the C: drive, as installing it on any drive that is not the default may cause more problems.

If you continue to have issues with your game, please contact the Square Enix Support Center with any applicable error codes by clicking on the "Additional Assistance" button at the bottom of the page.



FAQ Article: 67507
FAQ Category: [In-game] / FAQ Sub-category: [Freeze]


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