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How to Fix “A Critical Error Has Occurred” in 2XKO

/ by Ava Taylor

The rise of 2XKO, Riot Games’ upcoming team-based fighting game, has not been without hiccups. As early access and beta phases roll out to eager players, some have stumbled upon a disheartening notice: “A Critical Error Has Occurred.” This type of error can be confusing and frustrating, especially when you’re excited to jump into battle. In this article, we will explore common causes of this issue and provide reliable, step-by-step instructions to fix it.

TL;DR

If you’re seeing the “A Critical Error Has Occurred” message in 2XKO, don’t panic. Most of the time, this error is related to system conflicts, corrupted game files, or outdated drivers. You can often fix it by validating your game files, updating software and hardware drivers, or adjusting system settings. Follow the guide below for a full diagnosis and resolution process.

What Is the “A Critical Error Has Occurred” Message?

This message typically appears when 2XKO encounters an issue that prevents it from running properly. The error may occur during launch, mid-game, or while connecting to Riot’s online servers. It can result from several root causes, including system incompatibility, corrupted game data, third-party software interfering with runtime, or missing components like Visual C++ redistributables.

Common Causes

Understanding the potential culprits is the first step to resolving the error. Here are the most frequent ones:

  • Outdated graphics or system drivers: These can stop the game engine from initializing correctly.
  • Corrupted game files: Missing or damaged files may cause the game to crash or fail to launch.
  • Incompatible software: Antivirus or third-party overlays can interfere with game performance.
  • Missing dependencies: The game relies on Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables and DirectX to function.
  • Conflicting background applications: Overlays like Discord, MSI Afterburner, and GeForce Experience have a history of causing instability in some games.

How to Fix the Error

Let’s break down the most effective troubleshooting steps, ordered from easiest to most advanced.

1. Restart Your System

Begin with the basics. Restart your computer to clear temporary files and memory bottlenecks. Sometimes, a simple reboot resets the environment and clears up runtime conflicts.

2. Make Sure 2XKO and Riot Client Are Updated

Always ensure you are running the latest version of 2XKO and Riot Client. Updates often include fixes for instability and crashing issues.

To check for updates:

  1. Launch the Riot Client.
  2. Click on 2XKO from the game selection screen.
  3. Look for any prompt to update the game or client.

3. Verify Game Files

Corrupted or missing files can easily cause a critical error. Using the Riot Client’s built-in repair function can often resolve these issues.

How to repair your game installation:

  1. Open the Riot Client.
  2. Go to Settings by clicking the gear icon.
  3. Under the 2XKO tab, select “Repair.”

4. Update Graphics Drivers

GPU drivers are essential to smooth gameplay. Outdated drivers can result in crashes, graphic glitches, or games failing to start at all.

Visit the official site for your GPU manufacturer:

After updating, restart your PC and try launching 2XKO again.

5. Reinstall Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables

2XKO needs Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Packages to operate. If these are damaged or missing, your game may throw critical errors.

Steps to reinstall:

  1. Visit Microsoft’s official VC Redist page.
  2. Download both the x86 and x64 versions appropriate for your system.
  3. Install them and restart your computer.

6. Disable Overlays and Background Applications

Game overlays and performance monitors can conflict with Riot’s software. Disable any of the following if they’re running:

  • Discord Overlay
  • GeForce Experience (Shadowplay)
  • MSI Afterburner / RivaTuner
  • OBS or XSplit (only during troubleshooting)

To disable a Discord overlay, go to:

  1. Discord Settings > Game Overlay
  2. Toggle off “Enable In-Game Overlay”

7. Check for Windows Updates

Windows updates include essential compatibility packs and drivers that ensure modern games work correctly. To check for updates:

  1. Open Settings > Windows Update
  2. Click on “Check for updates”
  3. Install any pending updates, then restart your system.

8. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot loads only essential Microsoft services. This can help isolate if third-party software is causing the critical error.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  2. In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
  3. Check “Hide all Microsoft services”, then click “Disable all.”
  4. Go to the Startup tab and open Task Manager.
  5. Disable all startup items.
  6. Restart your computer and try launching 2XKO.

When to Contact Support

If none of the above methods work, it may be time to reach out to Riot Games Support. They have access to logs and diagnostics that can pinpoint deeper system incompatibilities or bugs tied specifically to the beta build.

Before contacting Riot, prepare the following:

  • A detailed description of when the error occurs
  • Your system specifications (CPU, GPU, RAM, OS)
  • Steps you’ve already tried
  • Include relevant log files, often found in the Riot Games or 2XKO installation directory

You can submit a ticket at: Riot Support Portal

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Preventing Future Errors

To avoid encountering critical errors again, consider the following preventative measures:

  • Keep your drivers and system updated regularly.
  • Avoid aggressive system optimizers or performance “boosters” which often disable essential services.
  • Install all Windows security and feature updates on time.
  • Scan your system for malware monthly to ensure no malicious software is interfering with game files.

Conclusion

The “A Critical Error Has Occurred” message in 2XKO can be alarming, but as this guide demonstrates, it’s usually solvable with methodical troubleshooting. Whether it’s a corrupted file, outdated driver, or an interfering overlay, taking the time to diagnose the issue will often get you back in the arena quickly. As 2XKO continues development, some hiccups are expected — but with a bit of technical diligence, you’ll stay ahead of the curve and focused on the fight.

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