James Harper
How to Fix WWE 2K25 Error: GRAPHICS_DEVICE_REMOVED on PC
Experiencing the GRAPHICS_DEVICE_REMOVED error while trying to play WWE 2K25 can be frustrating and disruptive to your gaming experience. This issue typically arises from problems related to graphics drivers, system configurations, or conflicting software. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to troubleshoot and fix this error effectively. By following these steps, you will learn how to verify your game files, adjust system settings, reinstall drivers, and optimize performance to ensure a smooth gaming experience.
Step 1: Verify the Game Files
The first step to resolving the GRAPHICS_DEVICE_REMOVED error is to verify the integrity of your game files. If any files are missing or corrupted, this can lead to the error you’re encountering. To do this, access your game launcher (such as Steam) and look for the option to verify game files. Follow the prompts, and once the verification is complete, relaunch the game to see if the issue persists.
Step 2: Delete the Configuration File
Sometimes, corrupted configuration settings can lead to issues during gameplay. Locate the game’s config file—usually found in the game’s installation folder—and delete it. The game will generate a new config file upon restarting, which can potentially fix the error.
Step 3: Allow the Game Executable in Antivirus and Firewall
Your antivirus or Windows Security may be blocking the game executable, resulting in this error. Go to your antivirus settings and add the WWE 2K25 game executable to the allowed list or exclusion list. Additionally, ensure that the executable is also permitted through your Firewall settings.
Step 4: Run the Game as an Administrator
Running the game with administrator privileges can often resolve permission-related issues. To do this, navigate to the game’s installation folder, right-click the executable file, and select Run as Administrator. Additionally, you can try running the game in compatibility mode by selecting Properties and then the Compatibility tab to adjust the settings.
Step 5: Modify Launch Options with -dx11 or -dx12
In some cases, switching the DirectX version can help. Access your game launcher and locate the launch options for WWE 2K25. You can add either -dx11 or -dx12 to the launch options. This may allow the game to run more smoothly depending on your graphics setup.
Step 6: Clean Installation of Graphics Drivers
If the issue continues, it might be necessary to reinstall your graphics drivers. Visit the official pages for NVIDIA Drivers or AMD Drivers to download and install the latest graphics drivers for your system. Make sure to perform a clean installation to remove any corrupted driver files.
Step 7: Use a Dedicated Graphics Card
Ensure that your game is using your dedicated graphics card rather than integrated graphics. You can configure this through your graphics control panel (NVIDIA Control Panel or AMD Radeon Settings). Set WWE 2K25 to run on your dedicated GPU for improved performance.
Step 8: Close the Game Execution in Task Manager
If the game processes are still running in the background, this can lead to launching issues. Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc, locate the game executable, and end the task. After that, try launching the game again. You should also delete any crashpad files that may have been created during a crash.
Step 9: Close WeMod and Anti-Cheat Programs
Some software can interfere with WWE 2K25, particularly anti-cheat programs such as FACEIT Anti-cheat. Before launching the game, ensure you have closed WeMod and any anti-cheat applications to reduce potential conflicts.
Step 10: Adjust Controller Connections
It’s important to manage your controller setup. Disconnect any connected controllers before launching the game. Allow the game to start properly before reconnecting the controller to avoid any connection issues.
Step 11: Disconnect Unused USB Devices
Disconnect any unnecessary peripherals such as Joystick, HOTAS, wheels, and other external USB devices. This can reduce the load on your system and eliminate potential conflicts. Ensure services that control RGB lighting (like Razer Synapse, MSI Dragon Center) that might be running in the background are turned off. Furthermore, you should close any third-party applications that could be consuming resources.
Step 12: Disable Overlays and Clean Boot
Overlays from applications like Steam, Discord, and GeForce Experience can sometimes interfere with games. Go into the respective settings and disable the overlay options. For further clarity, consider performing a clean boot of your system, ensuring that only essential services and programs are running.
Step 13: Update AMD Drivers
If you’re using an AMD graphics card, ensure that you have the latest drivers installed. You may need to install the Optional Update AMD 25.2.1 or AMD 25.1.1 updates as these can improve performance and compatibility for games.
Step 14: Optimize the Game in NVIDIA Control Panel
If you have an NVIDIA GPU, access the NVIDIA Control Panel and set the game to debug mode. Additionally, optimize the game settings within the NVIDIA application to enhance performance.
Step 15: Launch the Game in Big Picture Mode
Using Steam Big Picture Mode can sometimes bypass issues related to regular mode. Activate it to launch WWE 2K25—this can reset any problematic settings that are loaded in the standard view.
Step 16: Increase Virtual Memory
Insufficient virtual memory can cause performance issues. To increase it, access the Advanced system settings in Control Panel, navigate to Performance Options, and then the Advanced tab. Set the Initial Size to 1.5 times your total RAM and the Maximum Size to 3 times your total RAM.
Step 17: Install Visual C++ Redistributable
Ensure that you have the necessary Visual C++ Redistributable installed for the game to function properly. You can download it from the official Microsoft documentation page: Visual C++ Downloads.
Step 18: Update Your Windows
Make sure your Windows operating system is up to date. Go to Settings, then Update & Security, and check for updates. Installing the latest updates can resolve compatibility issues.
Step 19: Update System BIOS
In cases where all other steps fail, consider updating your System BIOS. Refer to your motherboard manufacturer’s website for the latest BIOS updates and follow their specific instructions for installation carefully.
Step 20: Uninstall and Reinstall the Game
If the GRAPHICS_DEVICE_REMOVED error persists, a complete reinstallation of the game may be necessary. Uninstall WWE 2K25, go to the game installation folder, and manually delete any leftover files. Restart your PC and reinstall the game, preferably on your C Drive or another SSD for optimal performance and better access times.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
It’s important to ensure that your system meets the game’s requirements and to regularly maintain your PC. Additionally, avoid making frequent hardware changes which can disrupt system stability and game performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common causes of the GRAPHICS_DEVICE_REMOVED error?
This error can occur due to outdated graphics drivers, conflicts with third-party applications, or hardware issues. Ensuring that all software is up to date and that your system is running smoothly can help prevent this error.
Can overclocking my GPU cause this error?
Yes, overclocking can lead to instability in games, including WWE 2K25. If you have overclocked your graphics card, consider reverting to default settings to see if this resolves the issue.
What if I continue to have graphics issues after following these steps?
If the problem still persists after attempting these resolutions, it may be beneficial to contact the game’s support or seek assistance from a professional technician to diagnose potential hardware failures.