Emily Bennett
How to Fix “Out of Video Memory” Error in Gaming on PC
Experiencing the “Out of Video Memory” error while gaming can be frustrating, impacting your entertainment and gaming experience. This guide will walk you through the steps to troubleshoot and resolve this issue effectively. By following these detailed instructions, you’ll learn critical actions that help ensure your system runs games smoothly without graphical errors or crashes.
Step 1: Verify Game Files
Begin by verifying the integrity of your game files. This process ensures that all game assets are correct and free from corruption. Depending on the platform you are using, the method may vary. For example, on Steam, right-click the game in your library, select Properties, navigate to the Local Files tab, and click on Verify Integrity of Game Files.
Step 2: Restart Steam and Adjust Launch Options
Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve issues. Close Steam completely and restart it. To modify the launch options, right-click the game in your Steam library, select Properties, then click the General tab. In the Launch Options field, try entering -dx11, -d3d11, or -dx12 to see if these settings help alleviate the issue.
Step 3: Clean Installation of Graphics Drivers
Outdated or corrupt graphics drivers may cause video memory errors. Perform a clean installation of your graphics drivers by visiting the respective websites: NVIDIA Drivers or AMD Drivers. Follow the instructions for your GPU to ensure optimal performance.
Step 4: Use Dedicated Graphics Card
Ensure that the game is running on your dedicated graphics card rather than the integrated graphics. Access the settings in your computer’s graphics control panel (like NVIDIA Control Panel or AMD Radeon Settings) and set the game to utilize the dedicated GPU for better performance.
Step 5: Run Game as Administrator
Running the game with elevated permissions can prevent potential access issues. To do this, navigate to the game installation folder, right-click the game’s executable file, and select Run as Administrator. Additionally, you can try running the game in Compatibility Mode by right-clicking the executable, selecting Properties, going to the Compatibility tab, and adjusting settings accordingly.
Step 6: Allow Game Through Antivirus and Firewall
Sometimes, antivirus programs or Windows Firewall may block the game, leading to memory errors. Go to your antivirus settings and add the game executable to the allowed list. Similarly, perform the same action in Windows Security and Firewall settings, ensuring that the game is recognized as safe.
Step 7: Delete Settings and Save Game Files
If issues persist, consider deleting the game’s settings or save files. Access the relevant directories, but be sure to create backups as this will cause you to lose all game progress. It’s often found in the game’s installation folder or in your Documents directory.
Step 8: Install Visual C++ Redistributables
Missing Visual C++ files can also lead to various errors. Ensure that you have the necessary files installed by visiting Visual C++ Redistributables and installing the required packages for your operating system.
Step 9: Update Windows
Always keep your operating system updated. Check for updates in Settings > Update & Security and ensure that you are running the latest version, ideally version 24H2 or higher.
Step 10: AMD Users – Install Optional Updates
If you are using an AMD graphics card, it’s advised to install the latest optional updates such as the AMD 25.2.1 or AMD 25.1.1 updates to enhance performance and compatibility.
Step 11: Debug Mode in NVIDIA Control Panel
For NVIDIA users, you can try setting the game in Debug Mode through the NVIDIA Control Panel. This may help in resolving performance issues related to graphics rendering.
Step 12: Close Overclocking and Overlay Applications
Overclocking applications, such as MSI Afterburner or Rivatuner, can lead to performance instability. Close all these applications, including any overlays from apps like Discord, GeForce Experience, and Razer Synapse, as they can interfere with the game performance.
Step 13: Increase Virtual Memory
A lack of virtual memory can also contribute to these errors. To increase virtual memory, go to Advanced System Settings, select Performance Settings, and adjust the virtual memory settings. Set the initial size to 1.5 times your total RAM and the maximum size to three times your total RAM.
Step 14: Update BIOS
Outdated BIOS can affect hardware performance. Check your motherboard manufacturer’s website for guidance on how to safely update your BIOS to the latest version.
Step 15: Unplug External Devices
External devices can sometimes conflict with gaming performance. Disconnect peripherals like HOTAS, wheels, additional USB adapters, multiple monitors, and close any related software (like Razer Synapse) to reduce potential interference.
Step 16: Try Windowed Mode and Adjust Graphics Settings
If you can launch the game, experiment with running it in Windowed Mode and lower the resolution and graphics settings. This can help relieve memory stress and improve performance.
Step 17: Uninstall and Reinstall the Game
If all attempts fail, uninstall the game completely, delete its folder from the installation directory, and perform a clean system restart. Install the game again, preferably on your C Drive or another SSD for optimal performance.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
While performing these steps, it’s important to ensure that your PC meets the minimum system requirements for the game. Reducing in-game settings to medium or low can also help manage resources more effectively. Keep in mind that frequent system maintenance, such as disc clean-ups and defragmentation, can also prevent similar issues in the future.
Should you encounter persistent problems, consider checking online forums and support communities for additional user-submitted solutions and experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes the “Out of Video Memory” error?
This error typically occurs due to insufficient graphics memory to allocate resources required by the game, often exacerbated by hardware incompatibilities or software conflicts.
Is it safe to delete save game files?
While deleting save game files can help resolve issues, it is crucial to back them up first to prevent loss of progress, especially if you are deeply invested in that game.
What should I do if the issue persists after trying everything?
If you’ve exhausted all troubleshooting options, you may need to consult the game’s support team for specialized assistance or consider upgrading your hardware.