Fix Warzone crashing (won't launch)

Warzone crashing or not launching is frustrating but almost always fixable. Here are the reliable fixes, in order. (For in-game stutter, see fix FPS drops.)

1. Scan and repair game files

• On Battle.net / Steam: Scan and Repair / verify integrity. Corrupt files are the number one cause of crashes.

2. Update your GPU drivers

• Latest NVIDIA / AMD, with a clean install if crashes persist. Outdated or corrupt drivers crash the game on launch.

3. Run as administrator + disable overlays

• Launch the client as administrator.
• Disable overlays (Discord, GeForce Experience, Xbox Game Bar, MSI Afterburner): classic crash sources.

4. Windows, Visual C++ and disk space

• Install Windows updates and the Visual C++ redistributables (the game needs them).
• Free up disk space: a nearly full drive blocks launch.
• Try disabling Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling (HAGS) if it crashes in-game.

5. If nothing works

• Reinstall Warzone (last resort but effective against a corrupt install).
• A dev error hitting everyone after a patch is often server-side: check Call of Duty's official status and wait for the fix, no need to tear your PC apart.

The Warzone recap

• All our Warzone guides — settings, loadouts and basics in one place.
• Fix FPS drops and stuttering.
• Fix packet burst and lag.

FAQ

Why does Warzone crash on startup?

Corrupt files, outdated drivers, conflicting overlays or missing Visual C++. Repair files and update drivers.

What about a dev error?

Repair files, update drivers and Windows, disable overlays. If it hits everyone after a patch, it's often server-side.