Path Of Exile 2 Crashing And Freezing Fix: A Complete Troubleshooting Guide

Key Takeaways:

1. Path of Exile 2, despite being one of the most anticipated releases of the year, faces early access stability issues like crashing and freezing, but these can be fixed with a few steps.
2. Key fixes include updating GPU drivers, verifying game files, switching APIs, and tweaking settings to ensure smooth gameplay.
3. Generic troubleshooting such as updating your system software, tweaking compatibility modes, and optimizing graphics performance can resolve persistent issues.

Path of Exile 2 (PoE 2) has finally hit the gaming world with its early access launch, leaving PC and console players buzzing with excitement. With over a million key redemptions even before launch, this action RPG sequel by Grinding Gear Games is already making waves. However, no great game comes without its growing pains. Like many high-profile early access titles, Path of Exile 2 faces some initial hiccups particularly crashing and freezing issues.

If you’re struggling to enjoy the game because of these problems, don’t worry. This guide walks you through tried-and-tested solutions to get your game back on track, ensuring smoother gameplay while developers patch things up in the coming weeks.

1. Switch to Vulkan API for Enhanced Stability

One of the easiest fixes for Path of Exile 2 crashing is switching the API from DirectX12 to Vulkan or vice versa. Different APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) perform differently on specific hardware setups. Many players report fewer crashes and smoother performance on Vulkan, so this is worth trying.

How to Switch APIs:

1. Launch Path of Exile 2 and head to the main menu.
2. Navigate to Options > Graphics Settings.
3. Find the Renderer setting and switch between DirectX12 and Vulkan.
4. Save your settings and restart the game.

If one API doesn’t work well, try switching back to the other until you find the most stable option for your system.

2. Verify Game Files on Steam or POE Client

Path of Exile 2 is a massive game clocking in at around 87GB and it’s being patched regularly. Corrupted or missing files could easily cause crashes. Steam and the official Path of Exile client provide a file verification option to ensure all game files are intact.

Steps to Verify Game Files (Steam):

1. Open Steam and go to your Library.
2. Right-click on Path of Exile 2 and select Properties.
3. In the Installed Files tab, click Verify Integrity of Game Files.
4. Let the process complete and relaunch the game.

For POE client users, the process is similar, with the option to check and repair game files located in the launcher settings. Make it a habit to verify files after every update.

3. Update GPU Drivers

Outdated GPU drivers are a common cause of crashing and freezing in new games. Graphics card manufacturers like NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel frequently release “game-ready” drivers optimized for the latest titles.

How to Update GPU Drivers:

1. Open Device Manager on your PC (search for it in the Start menu).
2. Expand Display Adapters and right-click on your GPU.
3. Select Update Driver and choose Search Automatically for Drivers.

If this doesn’t find the latest driver, visit the manufacturer’s website:

• NVIDIA Drivers
• AMD Drivers
• Intel Drivers

After downloading the latest driver, install it and restart your computer.

4. Update Path of Exile 2 Regularly

Because Path of Exile 2 is still in early access, updates and patches are frequent. Make sure your game is always up to date to benefit from stability fixes.

Prioritize Game Updates on Steam:

1. Open Steam and go to your Library.
2. Right-click on Path of Exile 2 and select Properties.
3. In the Updates tab, set Automatic Updates to High Priority.

This ensures your game downloads and installs patches as soon as they’re available.

5. Generic Troubleshooting Tips

If none of the above fixes work, here are additional troubleshooting steps to try:

a) Update Essential System Software

• DirectX: Ensure you’re running the latest version. Download updates directly from Microsoft’s website.
• Visual C++ Redistributables: Many games, including Path of Exile 2, depend on updated C++ Redistributables. Reinstall or update them to fix runtime errors.

b) Switch to Dedicated GPU (Laptop Users)

Many laptops with dual GPUs (integrated and dedicated) sometimes default to the integrated one, which can cause performance and stability issues. Use your GPU control panel (NVIDIA Control Panel or AMD Adrenalin) to force the game to use the dedicated GPU.

c) Add Path of Exile 2 to Antivirus Exclusions

Your antivirus software might be flagging game files as threats, leading to crashes. Add the game folder to your antivirus software’s exclusion or exceptions list to prevent interference.

d) Update BIOS for Compatibility

If you’re using Intel’s 13th or 14th-gen processors, an outdated BIOS could lead to compatibility issues with modern games. Update your BIOS following your motherboard manufacturer’s instructions.

e) Correct Date and Time Settings

An incorrect date or time on your system can cause issues with server connectivity or game launches. Make sure these are accurate.

6. Adjust Graphics Settings for Performance

If your game crashes persist, lowering graphics settings can help stabilize performance. You can also use these advanced fixes:

a) Force High-Performance Mode:

1. Open Graphics Settings (search for it in Windows).
2. Add the Path of Exile 2 executable file if it isn’t listed.
3. Select the game and click Options.
4. Choose High Performance mode and save.

b) Compatibility Settings:

1. Right-click the game’s executable file and select Properties.
2. In the Compatibility tab, enable Run this program in compatibility mode and choose Windows 7 or Windows 8.
3. Also, enable Disable Fullscreen Optimizations and Run as Administrator.

Path of Exile 2 is an ambitious project, and early access inevitably comes with its challenges. But with these fixes, you should be able to enjoy the game without frustrating crashes or freezes. As developers roll out patches, these issues should become less frequent, but for now, these troubleshooting tips will keep you in the game.

FAQ

Q1: Why is Path of Exile 2 crashing on launch?
A: The most common reasons include outdated GPU drivers, corrupted game files, or compatibility issues with your hardware. Follow the steps above to address these issues.

Q2: Is Path of Exile 2 optimized for older hardware?
A: While the game runs on a variety of hardware, older systems may experience instability. Switch to Vulkan API, update drivers, and lower graphics settings for better performance.

Q3: Do I need to update my BIOS to play Path of Exile 2?
A: BIOS updates are only necessary if you’re using newer hardware (e.g., Intel’s 13th/14th-gen CPUs) with known compatibility issues.

Q4: Can antivirus software interfere with Path of Exile 2?
A: Yes, antivirus programs can mistakenly flag game files as threats. Add the game folder to your antivirus exceptions to avoid interference.

Q5: When will developers fix Path of Exile 2 crashing issues?
A: Developers are actively working on patches. Frequent updates during the early access phase aim to address these problems quickly.