Fix Xbox runtime error on Windows 10
Microsoft's Xbox is a well-known and widely used video game platform around the world. This video game experience is usually enhanced by the use of Xbox controllers which assist in the wireless control of the game with a few clicks. For Windows users using Xbox on their PC, Xbox controllers are fully compatible with the Windows operating system. However, there are times when users report a runtime error. While this error may occur from time to time, it still interferes with your Xbox experience and can be annoying. If you are facing the same situation, then you have come to the right place. We have the perfect guide for you to help you deal with Xbox Runtime Error and explain what Xbox Runtime Error is. So let's take a little look at the error and find out what causes it on Windows when using an Xbox controller.
How to Fix Xbox Runtime Error in Windows 10
The Xbox runtime error is an error that most often occurs when a program is launched using an Xbox controller. When you press a controller button to open a game or run a program, a runtime error can occur that prevents the Xbox from executing the correct commands for many reasons.
What is causing the runtime error?
Several reasons can cause a runtime error when running an Xbox with an Xbox controller, some of which are mentioned below:
- Corrupted Xbox files
- Outdated Xbox Controller Drivers
- Corrupted system files
- Xbox server issues
Whether the cause of the error is technical or related to a server issue, they can all be resolved with the steps below:
Method 1: Visit the Xbox Status Page
The next method on the list to fix the Xbox runtime error is to check if the Xbox servers are down. Sometimes the real runtime error issue is server side issues so you should check the Xbox Live Status page and wait out the issue if the server is down.
Method 2: Install the Xbox Controller Driver
The first method to follow when experiencing issues such as runtime error in Xbox games is to manually install the Xbox controller drivers. But before that, it is important to uninstall the Xbox 360 drivers. While for Windows 10 these drivers are pre-installed, for other versions of Windows, you need to download the Xbox one controller driver manually, which can be done by following these steps:
1. Open the Run dialog box using the Win + R keys.
2. Now enter control in the field and click OK.
3. Find and open Programs and Features.
4. Then right click Microsoft Xbox 360.
5. Finally, click "Delete".
6. After uninstalling the program, download the latest Xbox One Driver .
7. Run the installer after downloading it.
8. Finally, after reboot the system.
9. Now connect your Xbox controller to check if the error is resolved.
Method 3: Download the latest version of Microsoft Visual C++
Another method that can help you with the runtime error is to install the latest version of Microsoft Visual C++ on your system. The latest version may not ship with Xbox controller drivers; hence you can download it manually.
1. Open the Microsoft Visual C++ download page.
2. Click the download link.
3. After installing the program on your system, launch it by following the instructions on the screen.
4. Now, restart your computer and connect your Xbox controller to check if the runtime error is resolved.
Method 4: Update Windows
If you're running an outdated version of Windows on your system and getting an Xbox Runtime Error when launching a game, updating Windows can help. You can check out our guide to download and install the latest Windows 10 update and help yourself with the latest update.
Method 5: Repair System Files
Another reason that can cause a runtime error is corrupted files on your system. These files full of errors can interrupt the normal operation of the system. Therefore, it is important to scan these files, and for this you can use the System File Checker tool. For more information about scanning, read our guide How to Repair System Files in Windows 10.
Method 6: Restart your Xbox
If none of the methods have helped you so far, you can try restarting your Xbox system, which can help you with the Xbox Runtime Error if you are using a console. The data and games stored on your system remain intact after a reboot, making for a completely safe method. You can try the reboot method by doing the following:
1. Press the Xbox button.
2. Click "Settings" in the Xbox guide window.
3. Select Restart console and click Yes to confirm the restart.
Photo by Louis Philippe Poitras on Unsplash
Method 7: Update your Xbox controller
The main problem with the Xbox runtime error occurs when the user tries to launch the game using a controller. Therefore, it is important to make sure that the wireless controller you are using is up to date. So, follow the instructions below and update your controller to get rid of the runtime error:
1. Connect your Xbox controller to your computer.
2. Then press the Windows key, type Microsoft Store and click Open.
3. Find the Xbox Accessories app and click Get to install it on your computer.
4. Now launch the Xbox Accessories app. It will automatically show the Xbox controller on the screen once it is detected.
5. Then click on the icon with three dots and select the Refresh option.
6. If the controller has already been updated, the message No updates available will appear on the screen.
Method 8: Perform a Clean Boot
If you've tried all the above methods and still can't get rid of the runtime error, corrupted repositories or some missing Windows files may be the cause of the error. These problems have a quick fix which is performing a clean boot. It removes any third-party applications or programs that may be interfering with the launch of the game or other Windows features. You can check out our helpful guide on how to clean boot Windows 10 for detailed step-by-step instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. What is a runtime error?
Answer A runtime error is an error that occurs when the affected program starts. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including incompatible applications, lack of space or memory, malware, or bugs.
Q2. Does the runtime error affect the game?
Answer If you encounter a runtime error due to your Xbox controller, there is a high chance that you will lose your game or control of it, and your game may also be terminated.
Q3. How do I reset my Xbox controller?
The answer to Reset an Xbox controller is quite simple as its reset button is located next to the L2 button. When the button is pressed and held for a few seconds, this resets the controller. Once this is done, you can reconnect the controller to your system and check if it works normally.
Q4. How can I update my Xbox controller?
Answer You can update your Xbox controller using the Xbox Accessories app. For more information and step-by-step instructions, check out Method 7 mentioned above.
Q5. Can I hard reset my Xbox?
A Hard reset will erase all data and games from your PSP or Xbox, so make sure you back up all your data, files, and games from your Xbox system in a safe place before performing it.
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Xbox users who love to play video games with Xbox controllers may encounter a runtime error quite often. Getting this error is really frustrating, but we hope our guide has helped you find solutions to fix Xbox Runtime Error and also helped you know what Xbox Runtime Error is. Let us know which method helped you the most by leaving a comment below. Also, if you have questions or suggestions, please leave them below as well.