Lorene Melone
How To Fix Overwatch 2 VCRUNTIME140.dll (0xc000007b) Error on PC
If you’ve ever tried launching Overwatch 2 and then suddenly got hit with the VCRUNTIME140.dll or 0xc000007b error messages, you’re not the only one. These errors stop the game from starting, and honestly, they can be pretty frustrating because it feels like you’re just stuck waiting for some magic fix. Usually, it comes down to missing or corrupted Visual C++ Redistributable files or some misconfigured system files. Fixing this isn’t always as straightforward as it should be, but a few steps usually clear up the problem — at least most of the time.
How to Fix Overwatch 2 VCRUNTIME140.dll and 0xc000007b Error
Method 1: Installing the Correct Visual C++ Redistributables
This is kind of the go-to fix. Basically, the game (and a lot of other Windows apps) rely on certain Visual C++ libraries being present and up-to-date. If they’re missing or outdated, errors pop up. Installing both the x86 and x64 versions usually does the trick, because some parts of Overwatch 2 might be 32-bit, while others are 64-bit.
- Head over to the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable download page. Yes, it’s Microsoft’s site, so make sure you’re grabbing from there.
- Download both the x86 and x64 files — just grab the latest version (probably the 2015-2022 redistributables).
Method 2: Installing the x86 Version
This might seem odd, but on some setups, installing the x86 Redistributable first helps Windows recognize the necessary DLLs better. Plus, some game components are definitely 32-bit.
- Run the
vc_redist.x86.exefile you downloaded. Often, browsers dump it into Downloads. - If Windows prompts you, pick Repair if it’s already installed, or just go ahead with Install.
- Let it do its thing. It might ask for admin rights — give those if prompted.
Method 3: Installing the x64 Version
The x64 version is for 64-bit systems, which most of us run nowadays. Repeating the process here is good practice because the game might be picky about what DLLs it can find.
- Run the
vc_redist.x64.exeyou downloaded. - Same deal: select Repair if you see it, or just install it fresh.
- Finish the install, fire up the game, cross fingers.
Method 4: Restart and Verify
This might sound trivial, but restarting after these installs is critical. When Windows boots up again, it refreshes the system environment and loads the new DLLs. Sometimes, even if you did everything right, Windows just needs a reboot to register the updates properly.
On some setups, a quick reboot fixes the error immediately. On others, if you still see it after restarting, double-check that both redistributables installed correctly. Sometimes, the installer might warn you about missing prerequisites or other issues that you should address.
Method 5: Additional Checks — Update Windows and Drivers
Of course, catching up with Windows updates isn’t a bad idea. Windows update patches can include fixes that improve compatibility and resolve library issues. Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and hit Check for updates.
And yeah, graphics drivers matter too. Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause all sorts of weird errors. Use your GPU manufacturer’s tools (like GeForce Experience or AMD Radeon Software) or go directly to the manufacturer’s site to get the latest driver.
Extra Tip: Run as Administrator
Sometimes, Windows slaps down permission issues and prevents DLL files from being properly accessed or replaced. Right-click on the Overwatch 2 shortcut, select Run as administrator, and see if it launches without errors. It’s not always the fix, but it’s a quick thing to try.
Conclusion
Mostly, these errors boil down to missing or mismatched DLL files, which installing or repairing the Visual C++ Redistributables usually sorts out. If that didn’t help, it might be worth checking for other Windows system issues or even testing the game files via Battle.net (if you’re using that launcher). A fresh reinstall is a last resort, but often unnecessary if these DLLs are just misconfigured.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s VCRUNTIME140.dll anyway?
This DLL is part of the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package. Basically, it’s one of the core files needed for many applications built with Visual Studio to run properly. If it’s missing or damaged, problems happen.
Why does the 0xc000007b error show up?
More often than not, it’s a mix-up between 32-bit and 64-bit DLLs. Or, corrupted system files and outdated redistributables. Installing the latest Visual C++ packages usually clears it up.
Can I fix the errors without reinstalling Overwatch 2?
Yep, often just fixing or updating DLLs and redistributables does the trick. Reinstalling tends to be overkill unless something else is broken beyond repair.
Summary
- Download the latest Visual C++ Redistributables from Microsoft
- Install both x86 and x64 versions, repair if needed
- Restart your PC before trying again
- Keep Windows and GPU drivers updated
- Run the game as Admin if errors persist
Wrap-up
In the end, fixing those DLL errors is usually about making sure everything’s installed correctly and Windows can find what it needs. For most setups, a fresh install of the redistributables and a restart does the trick. Fingers crossed this helps some folks get back to gaming without headache. Just remember, sometimes it’s all about the tiny details that make the whole thing work again.