For many PC gamers, playing Mass Effect: Andromeda is a thrilling experience—until they encounter the dreaded DirectX error. This error typically manifests as the game crashing shortly after launch or during gameplay, often with messages referencing DirectX initialization failures. While this problem can be frustrating, it is fixable with a series of well-known and tested troubleshooting steps that address hardware compatibility, system software, and in-game settings.
Common Causes of The DirectX Error
Before delving into how to fix the DirectX error, it’s essential to understand what might cause it. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Outdated GPU drivers
- Corrupted DirectX files
- Incompatible game settings
- Missing or damaged system files
- Hardware issues or driver conflicts
Step-by-Step Guide to Fix the DirectX Error in Mass Effect: Andromeda
1. Update Graphics Drivers
The most effective first step is to ensure your GPU drivers are up to date:
- Visit your GPU manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel).
- Download and install the latest driver version compatible with your hardware.
- Restart your PC after the installation finishes.
2. Reinstall DirectX
Corrupted or missing DirectX files can easily cause launch errors. Here’s how to repair them:
- Download the DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer.
- Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
- After installation, reboot your PC and check if the issue persists.
3. Disable In-Game Overlay Features
Secondary applications like Discord or GeForce Experience often cause conflicts with full-screen DirectX games. To disable overlays:
- Open Discord and turn off the in-game overlay in Settings > Overlay.
- For NVIDIA users, open GeForce Experience and disable the in-game overlay in the General tab.
4. Change Game Display Settings
Sometimes, resolution or graphics settings incompatible with your current hardware or drivers can cause the game to crash with DirectX errors.
- Navigate to the game’s
ProfileOptions_profilefile found inDocuments\BioWare\Mass Effect Andromeda\Savefolder. - Edit the file using Notepad and change the screen resolution to match your display.
- For problematic setups, try switching to Windowed or Borderless Windowed mode instead of Fullscreen.
5. Verify Game Files
On Origin or EA Desktop:
- Go to your game library.
- Right-click on Mass Effect: Andromeda and select Repair.
On Steam:
- Right-click on the game title > Properties > Local Files.
- Click “Verify Integrity of Game Files…”.
6. Update Windows
Make sure your version of Windows is up-to-date to eliminate compatibility issues:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install everything available.
7. Check for Overheating or Hardware Failures
In rare cases, persistent DirectX errors may be a sign of GPU overheating or failing RAM. Use monitoring tools like MSI Afterburner or HWMonitor to check temperatures while gaming. If needed, clean your PC or change thermal paste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why does Mass Effect Andromeda crash before it even launches?
This could mean there is a conflict during DirectX initialization. Most commonly, this is due to outdated video drivers, corrupted DirectX files, or incompatible overlays.
Can DirectX 12 be used to run the game more reliably?
No. Mass Effect: Andromeda is built on DirectX 11 and does not support DirectX 12 natively. Using DirectX 12 through third-party software or wrappers can introduce new errors.
Are there any mods or tools that can fix the DirectX crash?
Some users have reported success using community patches or configuration tweaks, but it’s important to make backups and proceed carefully. Officially, EA does not support modded game environments.
Could antivirus software be causing the DirectX problem?
Yes, certain aggressive antivirus programs may block or quarantine files necessary for running the game. Consider adding the game folder to your antivirus exclusion list.
How do I know if my hardware is compatible with Mass Effect Andromeda?
Check the minimum and recommended requirements listed on EA’s official website. Tools like Can You Run It can help you analyze compatibility automatically.
By following these steps carefully, most users can resolve the DirectX error and jump back into exploring new worlds in Mass Effect: Andromeda without major setbacks.
