Experiencing a black screen when launching RimWorld can be frustrating. This guide will provide comprehensive solutions to address this issue.
Importance: Understanding the root cause of the black screen issue in RimWorld is crucial for effective troubleshooting.
Details: The black screen issue often arises due to corrupted files in the AppData folder. Before diving into the solutions, always consider restarting your computer and the Steam application as a preliminary step.
Why We Have Seen RimWorld Black Screen On Load Error
- Corrupted Game Files: Over time or due to unexpected shutdowns, the game files can become corrupted, leading to the black screen error when attempting to load RimWorld.
- Incompatible Mods: Some mods might not be compatible with the current version of RimWorld or with other mods, causing conflicts and resulting in the black screen issue.
- Outdated Software: Running an outdated version of DirectX, Microsoft Visual C++, or even graphics drivers can lead to visual and loading issues in the game.
- Hardware Limitations: If the player’s hardware doesn’t meet RimWorld’s minimum requirements, or if there are hardware malfunctions, the game might not load correctly, displaying a black screen.
- Overlay and Third-party Software Interference: Software like screen recorders, streaming tools, or certain antivirus programs can interfere with RimWorld’s loading process, causing the black screen error.
How To Fix Rimworld Black Screen – Step – By – Step Guide
1. Delete The Game’s Folder From The Appdata
- Importance: The AppData folder contains essential configuration and cache files. Corrupted files here can lead to startup issues.
- Steps:
- Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type “appdata” and press Enter.
- Navigate to the LocalLow folder and delete the “Ludeon Studios” folder.
- Relaunch RimWorld.
2. Verify The Game Files
- Importance: Corrupted game files are a common culprit behind the black screen issue.
- Steps:
- Open Steam and navigate to your Library.
- Right-click on RimWorld and select Properties.
- Go to Installed Files and click “Verify the integrity of game files.”
3. Re-subscribe To Every Mod You Have
- Importance: Mods can conflict with game files, leading to startup issues.
- Steps:
- Open Steam and go to Library.
- Select RimWorld and navigate to Workshop.
- Unsubscribe from all mods and then re-subscribe.
- Verify the integrity of game files as mentioned above.
4. Run The Game As An Administrator
- Importance: Running RimWorld with administrative privileges ensures it has the necessary permissions.
- Steps:
- Right-click on the RimWorld shortcut and select Properties.
- Go to the Compatibility tab.
- Check “Run this program as an administrator.”
5. Closing Overlay Apps
- Importance: Overlay apps can interfere with game performance and lead to black screens.
- Steps:
- Right-click on the taskbar and open Task Manager.
- Identify any overlay apps and end their tasks.
6. Disable Steam Overlay
- Importance: Steam’s overlay feature, while useful, can sometimes conflict with games.
- Steps:
- In Steam, right-click RimWorld and select Properties.
- Uncheck “Enable the Steam Overlay while in-game.”
7. Reinstall Microsoft Visual C++ Runtime
- Importance: Visual C++ is essential for many games. Corrupted installations can cause issues.
- Steps:
- Press Win + R, type “appwiz.cpl”, and press Enter.
- Uninstall all Visual C++ runtimes.
- Download and install the latest Visual C++ redistributables from Microsoft’s website.
8. Update DirectX
- Importance: An outdated DirectX can lead to graphical issues in games.
- Steps:
- Download the latest DirectX from Microsoft’s website.
- Install it following the on-screen instructions.
9. Disable Full-Screen Optimizations
- Importance: While full-screen optimizations improve performance, they can conflict with in-game optimizations.
- Steps:
- Right-click on the RimWorld shortcut and select Properties.
- Under the Compatibility tab, check “Disable full-screen optimizations.”
10. Reinstall The Graphics Driver
- Importance: Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers can lead to visual issues in games.
- Steps:
- Download Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU).
- Use DDU to completely remove your graphics driver.
- Download and install the latest driver from your GPU manufacturer’s website.
11. Reinstall The game, Including The Mods
- Importance: A fresh installation can resolve any lingering file conflicts or corruptions.
- Steps:
- In Steam, go to Library and right-click RimWorld.
- Select “Uninstall.”
- Once uninstalled, reinstall RimWorld and your preferred mods.
Frequently Expected Question
Q1. Can outdated hardware cause the black screen issue in RimWorld?
Ans: Yes, if your hardware doesn’t meet the game’s minimum requirements or if components are failing, it can lead to performance issues, including black screens.
Q2. How do I know if a specific mod is causing the black screen issue?
Ans: The best way is to disable all mods and enable them one by one, checking the game’s performance after each. If the game fails to start after enabling a specific mod, that mod is likely the culprit.
Q3. Does changing the game’s resolution help in fixing the black screen?
Ans: In some cases, setting the game’s resolution to match your monitor’s native resolution can resolve display issues.
Q4. What should I do if I’ve tried all the solutions but still face the black screen issue?
Ans: Consider reaching out to the game’s official forums or support channels. Other players or the game’s developers might offer solutions specific to your situation.
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