Microsoft’s Latest Windows Update: Impact on Game users; The most recent Windows update from Microsoft has caused disruptions for some gamers, particularly due to compatibility issues with various gaming software.
One of the key problems reported is the incompatibility between the update and Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC), a software tool used to prevent cheating in many online multiplayer games.
This has led to frustrations for gamers, as games dependent on EAC are experiencing glitches, crashes, or are entirely unplayable.
Easy Anti-Cheat Incompatibility
Microsoft’s Latest Windows Update: Impact on Game users; Gamers have reported that when attempting to play games utilizing EAC, they receive error messages or notice that the game is struggling to maintain stable performance. This issue is widespread, affecting players across multiple games that rely on this anti-cheat system.
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While Microsoft is aware of the problem, a definitive fix has yet to be provided, leaving many users searching for workarounds. Some temporary solutions include rolling back the Windows update or disabling certain system features that may conflict with EAC, but these are not foolproof.
Asphalt 8 Issues
Microsoft’s Latest Windows Update: Impact on Game users; Another game that has been affected by the Windows update is Asphalt 8: Airborne, a popular racing game developed by Gameloft.
Players have reported various performance issues with the game, including random crashes, reduced frame rates, and difficulties in launching the game after applying the update.
The incompatibility seems to be related to both system changes introduced in the update and its interaction with the game’s engine.
These issues have not only affected the overall gaming experience but also sparked frustration among the community, as Asphalt 8 is a widely played game on both PCs and mobile devices. Some players have tried to address the issues by reinstalling the game, updating drivers, or modifying system settings, but for many, the problems persist.
Potential Workarounds
While Microsoft is working on addressing the compatibility issues introduced by its latest update, gamers have turned to various workarounds to mitigate the impact on their gaming experience:
- Rolling Back the Update: For those facing significant issues, reverting to a previous version of Windows can temporarily solve the problem. This option may, however, leave users without important security patches that come with the latest updates.
- Driver Updates: Updating GPU drivers has helped some players mitigate performance issues, especially with games like Asphalt 8.
- Disabling Certain Features: Some users have found that turning off features like virtualization or adjusting settings in the game’s compatibility mode can alleviate some of the issues caused by the update.
Microsoft’s Response
Microsoft has acknowledged the reports of incompatibilities and has assured gamers that they are actively working on a solution. However, no exact timeline has been provided for when a comprehensive fix will be rolled out. Gamers affected by these issues are advised to stay informed on upcoming patches and fixes from both Microsoft and game developers.
Which games are affected by Microsoft?
The Windows update causing issues, particularly with Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC) incompatibility
1. Fortnite
“Fortnite” is one of the most popular battle royale games and relies heavily on Easy Anti-Cheat to prevent players from using cheats. After the Windows update, players have reported issues like game crashes, freezing, or being unable to launch the game altogether due to EAC malfunctioning.
2. Apex Legends
“Apex Legends,” another major battle royale game, also uses Easy Anti-Cheat. Users have experienced problems such as the game refusing to start, sudden crashes during matches, and error messages related to anti-cheat software compatibility following the update.
3. Destiny 2
“Destiny 2,” a multiplayer first-person shooter, is known for its robust online player base. After the update, players have encountered issues when trying to access multiplayer components of the game, often getting kicked out due to Easy Anti-Cheat errors or the game crashing unexpectedly.
4. Elden Ring
“Elden Ring,” a critically acclaimed action role-playing game, has also seen issues arise, particularly with online features. Players reported that the EAC incompatibility prevented them from connecting to multiplayer servers, limiting their ability to engage in online co-op or PvP battles.
5. Halo: The Master Chief Collection
This game collection, including several entries from the “Halo” series, has also been affected. The EAC system embedded in the game has led to instances where players are unable to launch the multiplayer mode, experiencing game crashes or disruptions in matchmaking services.
6. War Thunder
“War Thunder,” a popular vehicular combat game, relies on Easy Anti-Cheat to protect its multiplayer environment. Some users have reported difficulty launching the game, crashes during gameplay, and EAC-related error messages after the Windows update.
7. Rainbow Six Siege
As one of the most played tactical shooters, “Rainbow Six Siege” also uses Easy Anti-Cheat. Many players have reported disruptions in online matches, including crashes or an inability to join games, due to the anti-cheat system not functioning properly with the new update.
8. Dead by Daylight
The multiplayer horror game “Dead by Daylight” is another title affected by this incompatibility. Issues include frequent game crashes, problems with matchmaking, or being disconnected from servers because of anti-cheat errors.
9. Rust
“Rust,” an online survival game, has also been affected by EAC problems. Players have reported issues with connecting to servers and crashes during gameplay after installing the latest Windows update.
Asphalt 8: Airborne
In addition to these games with EAC-related issues, Asphalt 8: Airborne, a popular racing game by Gameloft, has been affected in a slightly different way.
Microsoft’s Latest Windows Update: Impact on Game users; Users have experienced performance-related problems, such as crashing and lower frame rates, after installing the Windows update.
Other Games That Use Easy Anti-Cheat
Other games that rely on EAC may also be experiencing issues. These include:
- The Division 2
- Squad
- 7 Days to Die
- Paladins
- Hunt: Showdown
When is the fix coming?
Microsoft has acknowledged the issues caused by its latest Windows update, particularly regarding the Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC) incompatibility and the problems affecting certain games like Asphalt 8. However, as of now, no exact timeline has been provided for when a comprehensive fix will be rolled out.
Microsoft’s Response and Status
- Work in Progress: Microsoft is actively working with both game developers and anti-cheat software providers to address these issues. Fixing EAC incompatibility is a priority since it affects a broad range of popular games, but large-scale updates like this often require time for testing and collaboration between the various parties involved.
- Game Developer Collaboration: In many cases, game developers and anti-cheat software providers like Easy Anti-Cheat need to update their own systems to ensure full compatibility with new Windows updates. These updates will likely be rolled out through individual game patches once compatibility is restored.
Temporary Fixes & Workarounds
While waiting for an official fix, Microsoft and some developers have suggested a few temporary workarounds:
- Rolling back the Windows update: Some users have found that uninstalling the recent update and reverting to an earlier Windows version can resolve the issue. This, however, may leave systems without the latest security patches.
- Manual Updates: Some games might release interim patches or updates to address specific issues with Easy Anti-Cheat. Keeping your games and system drivers updated could mitigate some of the problems.
- Community Solutions: Players have also shared various workarounds on forums, such as running games in compatibility mode or disabling certain system features.
Expected Timing
Microsoft’s Latest Windows Update: Impact on Game users; Given the scale of the issue and the need for coordination between Microsoft, game developers, and anti-cheat providers, the fix may come as part of a future Windows patch in the coming weeks or months.
However, Microsoft has not committed to a precise release date. It’s a good idea for affected gamers to keep an eye on official Microsoft channels, as well as updates from individual game developers, for more specific information about when the issue will be fully resolved.