As one of the most popular gaming franchises globally, Call of Duty (CoD) has garnered a massive player base, constantly evolving through updates. However, encountering issues after an update can be frustrating. In this article, we will explore the potential reasons why your Call of Duty game might not be working after an update, provide detailed troubleshooting steps, and suggest solutions to get you back into the game quickly.
Understanding the Problem: Why Call of Duty Might Not Work After an Update
Call of Duty updates are designed to enhance gameplay, fix bugs, and introduce new content. Yet, sometimes they can cause unexpected problems. Here are some common reasons why your game might not be functioning properly:
1. Corrupted Game Files
Updates can occasionally corrupt game files, particularly if there was an interruption during the download or installation process. Corrupted files can lead to crashes or the game failing to launch.
2. Compatibility Issues
Post-update, your system’s hardware or software may face compatibility problems. For instance, outdated drivers or conflicting software could cause your game to malfunction.
3. Server Issues
Sometimes the problem might not be on your end. After major updates, the game servers can experience high traffic or may themselves have bugs, leading to connectivity issues.
4. Incorrect Installation
Sometimes, if the update process is interrupted or there’s a power failure, the update may not install correctly, leading to problems.
5. Modifications and Third-Party Software
If you utilize mods or third-party software to enhance gameplay, these may not work with the latest update, causing the game to crash or malfunction.
Troubleshooting Steps to Resolve Call of Duty Issues After an Update
If you find yourself unable to play Call of Duty after an update, here are well-structured steps for troubleshooting the problem.
Step 1: Verify Game Files
Many gaming platforms, including Steam and Battle.net, offer a way to verify the integrity of game files. Here’s how:
- Open the gaming platform you use.
- Navigate to your library and right-click on Call of Duty.
- Select “Properties” and click on the “Local Files” tab.
- Click on “Verify Integrity of Game Files.”
This process will check for any corrupted files and replace them automatically.
Step 2: Update Graphics and Other Drivers
Outdated drivers can lead to performance issues, especially after an update.
- Check for updates on your graphics card manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel).
- Update other system drivers like chipset and audio drivers via the manufacturer’s site.
Ensure your operating system is fully updated for the best compatibility with the game.
Step 3: Clear Cache and Reinstall the Game
Clearing cache can resolve issues stemming from old files that conflict with new updates.
To clear cache:
– Restart your computer.
– Launch the game again; this can clear temporary files.
If problems persist, you may need to consider a complete reinstall:
– Uninstall Call of Duty from the platform.
– Re-download and install the game.
Step 4: Disable Overlays and Background Applications
Some applications, like Discord or GeForce Experience, can interfere with game performance. Try disabling overlays or exiting any non-essential applications while running the game.
Step 5: Check Call of Duty’s Server Status
Server issues can often be the culprit for gameplay problems. Before diving deeper into troubleshooting, check for server outages. You can visit various online forums or the official Call of Duty Twitter account for real-time updates regarding server status.
Potential Solutions to Common Issues
Now that you know how to troubleshoot, let’s take a closer look at some specific issues that players often face and how to resolve them.
1. Game Crashing Upon Launch
If you find the game crashing right after you launch it, try the following:
Reset Game Settings
Sometimes, custom settings can cause conflicts. You can reset game settings by navigating to the game’s configuration file and deleting or renaming it (the game will create a new one upon launch).
Run as Administrator
Running the game with administrative privileges can often alleviate crashing issues. Right-click the game icon and select “Run as administrator.”
2. Lagging and Connectivity Issues
If your gameplay is lagging post-update, consider these solutions:
Change Your DNS Settings
Switching to a public DNS server, like Google DNS (8.8.8.8, 8.8.4.4), can improve connectivity issues.
Wired Connection
While Wi-Fi is convenient, a hardwired connection via Ethernet generally provides more stability during gaming sessions.
3. Game Not Updating
In cases where your game fails to update, ensure the following:
Sufficient Disk Space
Check that you have enough storage capacity for the new update.
Check for Background Updates
Sometimes other background applications may hinder the update process. Ensure to pause or stop unnecessary downloads and updates.
Community Feedback and Support
The gaming community is an invaluable resource for troubleshooting. Engaging with fellow players on forums, Reddit, or the Activision Support page can provide additional insights and solutions year-round.
Consider checking dedicated gaming disorder websites or communities. Many players share their personal experiences and solutions encountered during their gaming journeys.
When All Else Fails: Contacting Support
If you’ve tried everything and Call of Duty still isn’t working, it may be time to contact customer support. Activision offers a help website where you can submit a ticket. Be prepared to provide essential details regarding your system, the specific error messages you’ve encountered, and any troubleshooting steps you’ve already undertaken.
Essential Information to Provide
When reaching out to customer support, you may want to include:
- Your gaming platform (e.g., PC, PlayStation, Xbox).
- Your account details (username, email).
- A detailed description of the issue.
The customer support team can then assist you more effectively in resolving the issue.
Conclusion
Experiencing issues with Call of Duty after an update can be frustrating, but it’s often fixable. From verifying game files to contacting support, various steps can help you troubleshoot and return to the virtual battlefield. Keeping your drivers updated, maintaining sufficient storage, and engaging with the gaming community enhances your experience. Remember, you are not alone; many players face similar challenges. With patience and the right approach, you’ll be back in action, enjoying every moment of your Call of Duty gameplay in no time.
In conclusion, stay informed about future updates, maintain a proactive approach to troubleshoot issues, and take advantage of the resources at your disposal. Happy gaming!
What should I do first if Call of Duty stops working after an update?
If Call of Duty stops working after an update, the first step is to restart your gaming platform or PC. This simple action can resolve numerous minor glitches caused by the update process. Make sure to close the game completely and then relaunch it. Often, the game will automatically download any additional patches or files that may be needed to fix potential issues.
After restarting, check for any further updates to the game itself or the gaming platform. Developers frequently release hotfixes shortly after major updates to address bugs and stability issues. Ensure that your game is fully updated to the latest version, and confirm that your console or PC is also running the latest operating system and driver updates.
Why does my game keep crashing after an update?
Frequent crashes after an update can be attributed to several factors, including software incompatibilities, corrupted game files, or insufficient system resources. Start by verifying the integrity of the game files through the platform’s settings, such as Steam or Battle.net. This process checks for and replaces any corrupted files that may cause crashes during gameplay.
If the problem persists, consider checking your system’s performance metrics. Ensure that your graphics drivers are up to date and that background applications aren’t consuming too many resources. Sometimes disabling certain overlays or applications such as Discord or GeForce Experience can provide a more stable gaming experience.
What are some common error codes that may appear after an update?
After an update, players may encounter various error codes, each indicating different issues. Commonly seen codes include “Dev Error 6068,” which typically points to issues with DirectX or video drivers, and “Error 263235,” often related to connectivity problems. It’s essential to look up the specific error code online, as the community usually shares solutions aimed at correcting the issue.
Troubleshooting these error codes may involve steps like reinstalling the game, updating graphics drivers, or even adjusting network settings. Check forums and official support sites for detailed instructions tailored to your specific error code to find appropriate solutions.
How can I improve my game’s stability after an update?
Improving game stability after an update can often be achieved through a few key adjustments. First, ensure that you are running the game with optimal graphics settings, especially if you are experiencing slowdowns or crashes. Lowering graphics settings can help reduce the strain on your system, resulting in smoother gameplay and fewer issues.
Additionally, consider cleaning up your system by closing unnecessary background applications and performing a disk cleanup. This can increase available system resources and enhance performance. Regularly updating your operating system and checking for malware can also prevent potential conflicts that may impact game stability.
What’s the best way to report a problem to the developers?
If you encounter significant issues after an update, the best approach is to report the problem directly to the game developers. Most gaming platforms and publishers have support sections on their official websites where you can submit a ticket or bug report detailing your issue. Be sure to include relevant information, such as your platform, system specifications, error codes, and a clear description of the problem.
Engaging with the community through official forums or social media channels can also amplify your message. Many players share similar experiences, and developers often monitor these platforms for community feedback. This not only helps you find potential solutions but also raises awareness for the developers, increasing the chances of a prompt fix.
Will uninstalling and reinstalling the game fix the issues?
Uninstalling and reinstalling the game is a straightforward method to resolve persistent issues that don’t seem to go away after an update. This process ensures that all game files are fresh, eliminating corrupted data or incomplete files that could negatively affect gameplay. It is especially effective for resolving issues caused by a problematic patch.
Before you proceed with reinstalling, make sure to back up your game settings and progress if possible. Once reinstalled, check for all the latest updates again. While this method can be time-consuming, it often serves as a last resort for players experiencing severe issues that standard troubleshooting can’t resolve.