Alex Ruben
Fixing Split Fiction Crashing During Compiling Shaders on PC
If you’re experiencing crashes while playing Split Fiction during the Compiling Shaders screen, you’re not alone. This guide will walk you through systematic steps to troubleshoot and resolve these crashes, ensuring you can return to enjoying your gaming experience without interruptions. Each step is designed to address multiple potential sources of the problem, from file verification to adjusting system settings. Follow along to learn how to fix it effectively.
Step 1: Verify the Game Files
The first step in troubleshooting the crashing issue is to verify the integrity of your game files. Faulty or corrupted files can lead to runtime errors that cause crashes. In Steam, right-click on Split Fiction in your Library, select Properties, then navigate to the Local Files tab and click Verify Integrity of Game Files. This process will check for any missing or damaged files and replace them as necessary.
Step 2: Restart Steam and Adjust Launch Options
After verifying your game files, restart Steam to refresh the client. In the meantime, you can also modify the launch options for Split Fiction. Right-click on the game in your Library, select Properties, then under the General tab, input one of the following commands in the Launch Options box: -dx11, -d3d11, or -dx12. This will force the game to run with a specific DirectX version, which may resolve compatibility issues.
Step 3: Perform a Clean Installation of Your Graphics Driver
Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers can hinder the performance of games. To address this, you should perform a clean installation of your graphics drivers. For NVIDIA users, visit NVIDIA’s driver download page, and for AMD users, go to AMD’s driver support site. Follow the on-screen instructions to uninstall the current drivers and install the latest version.
Step 4: Use a Dedicated Graphics Card
Make sure your game is running on a dedicated graphics card rather than integrated graphics. Most PCs have both types, and sometimes games may default to the less powerful integrated graphics. Go to your graphics control panel (NVIDIA Control Panel or AMD Radeon Settings) and ensure that Split Fiction is set to use your dedicated GPU for optimal performance.
Step 5: Run the Game as Administrator
Running the game with administrative privileges can often resolve permission-related crashes. Navigate to the game installation folder, right-click on the executable file, and select Run as administrator. Additionally, you can test compatibility mode by right-clicking on the game executable, selecting Properties, then navigating to the Compatibility tab and checking Run this program in compatibility mode for. Choose an earlier version of Windows and see if that resolves the issue.
Step 6: Adjust Antivirus and Firewall Settings
Your antivirus software or Windows Firewall may inadvertently block the game from functioning properly. To prevent this, add the game’s executable file to the exceptions list of your antivirus program and Windows Security. Navigate to your antivirus settings and whitelist Split Fiction, as well as ensure that it is allowed through the Windows Firewall.
Step 7: Manage Settings and Save Game Files
Sometimes changes in settings or save files can cause crashes. To alleviate this, delete the settings file associated with the game and consider renaming or deleting your save game files. Make sure to backup these files first, as you will lose all game progress by doing this.
Step 8: Install Visual C++ Files
Outdated Visual C++ Redistributables can be a hidden cause of crashes. Ensure you have the latest redistribution libraries installed from Microsoft. You can find the necessary files on the official Microsoft Visual C++ Redist page. Download and install any missing components.
Step 9: Update Windows to the Latest Version
Make sure your Windows operating system is up-to-date. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for updates. Installing the latest Windows version (such as version 24H2) can improve your system’s compatibility with games and fix known bugs.
Step 10: Check for AMD Optional Updates
If you are using an AMD graphics card, download and install the latest optional updates such as AMD 25.2.1 or AMD 25.1.1. These updates can enhance performance and fix specific bugs related to gaming.
Step 11: Test Debug Mode in Nvidia Control Panel
For NVIDIA users, enable Debug Mode in the NVIDIA Control Panel. Often, this can help you monitor and resolve any issues stemming from graphics card operations while playing the game.
Step 12: Close Overclocking and Overlay Applications
Overclocking or overlay applications can often conflict with game performance. Close tools like MSI Afterburner and Rivatuner, remove any undervolt settings, and disable overlays from Steam, Discord, GeForce Experience, and other applications. Ensure that no lighting software or peripherals are conflicting with the game’s performance.
Step 13: Increase Virtual Memory
Increasing virtual memory can help improve performance. Navigate to Control Panel > System and Security, then click on System. Select Advanced system settings on the left, and under the Advanced tab, click Settings in the Performance section. Under the Advanced tab, click Change in Virtual memory. Set the Initial Size to 1.5 times your total RAM and Maximum Size to 3 times your total RAM. Apply changes and restart your PC.
Step 14: Update Your BIOS
Outdated BIOS can affect system stability. If you’re comfortable, check the manufacturer’s website for BIOS updates and follow their instructions to apply them safely. Be cautious with this step, as incorrect modifications can lead to other issues.
Step 15: Disconnect External Devices
External devices can sometimes cause game crashes. Unplug all gaming peripherals such as hotas, wheels, pedals, and additional controllers. Disconnect any USB adapters or multiple monitors, and turn off any associated software such as Razer Synapse or MSI Dragon Center. After doing this, try launching Split Fiction again.
Step 16: Adjust Game Launch Settings
If you’re able to launch the game after following previous steps, consider running it in windowed mode. Lower the resolution and graphics settings to ensure stability. It may not provide the best visuals, but it can help diagnose issues further.
Step 17: Uninstall and Reinstall the Game
If none of the above solutions resolve the crashing issue, you may need to uninstall and reinstall Split Fiction. Head to the game’s installation folder, delete all files, restart your PC, and then reinstall the game. Ideally, install it on the C Drive, or, if it’s already there, consider installing it on a different SSD for optimal results.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
While following the above steps, ensure you backup important files and settings. Take it slow and check the effectiveness of each solution before proceeding to the next. A common mistake is reinstalling without checking other adjustments that could solve the issue first.
Each step outlined here aims to address different potential causes of the crashes. Depending on your hardware configuration, some solutions may work better than others. The critical point is to be methodical in your approach to resolving these crashing issues.
Following this guide should alleviate crashing during Compiling Shaders and enhance your overall gaming experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my game still crashes after following these steps?
If the game continues to crash, consider checking the game’s forums or support pages for similar issues experienced by other users. Community-driven troubleshooting may reveal additional solutions based on collective experiences.
Do I need to back up my save files before proceeding with these steps?
Yes, especially if you’re deleting save files or the game itself, it’s critical to create backups to prevent data loss.
Will reinstalling the game delete all my progress?
Yes, if you don’t manually back up your save files, uninstalling will remove your progress. Make sure to back everything up before proceeding with uninstallation.