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If Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is crashing on PC, or has a black screen, here’s how to fix it

Our ultimate troubleshooting guide
Last Updated on October 25, 2024
How To Fix Black Ops 6 crashing
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Black Ops 6 has finally launched across different platforms, including PC. However, just like any new game, it has its fair share of issues. One of the biggest complaints from players is the game crashing. In fact, for some, it crashes right after launching.

This can happen to anyone, even those who have some of the most powerful hardware installed in their system, like the RTX 4090. But if you’re currently in the same boat, don’t worry, as we’re going to explain different methods that can stop the game from crashing.


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However, before trying to troubleshoot the issue, make sure your PO meets the game’s minimum system requirements. If it doesn’t, then you will most likely need to upgrade your hardware to run the game smoothly on your system. Otherwise, it will continue to crash.

Why is Black Ops 6 crashing on my PC?

Black Ops 6 could be crashing on your system due to several reasons, such as:

  • Update not installed.
  • Outdated GPU drivers.
  • Overheating.
  • Incorrect graphics settings.

How to fix Black Ops 6 crashing on PC

We understand that there’s nothing worse than trying to play Black Ops 6 after a long day, only to find that its crashing constantly. However, by following the methods mentioned below, you’ll be able to fix the issue in no time.

Step

1

Install the latest update

Activision released a new 600 MB update right before Black Ops 6 went live. This update most likely contains fixes for temporary bugs or glitches that may be causing the game to crash. In fact, in some cases, you might even get the error “New update available, please update the game via launcher” when trying to play Black Ops 6.

To download the latest update, simply exist your respective launcher, like Steam or Battle.net, and log in to your account again. The update should now start downloading.

Step

2

Make sure your GPU drivers are updated

As Black Ops 6 is a new game, you’ll need to make sure you have the latest GPU drivers installed in your system. These will make the GPU compatible with the game, and prevent any performance issues, including crashing, from popping up.

For this, just head over to the official website of Nvidia, AMD, or Intel, depending on your GPU manufacturer, and install download the latest update from their. You can also use the dedicated application of your GPU, such as the Nvidia GeForce Experience App or AMD Radeon Software, for this.

Drivers tab
Drivers tab in Nvidia GeForce Experience app, Image by PC Guide.

Step

3

Repair the game files

If there is something wrong with the game files or some of them are missing, Black Ops 6 will keep crashing. Thankfully, there is a quick way to fix this.

Steam:

  • Open Steam and make your way to the game Library.
  • Right-click on Black Ops 6, select ‘Properties,’ and go to ‘Installed Files.’
  • Click on ‘Verify integrity of game files’ and wait for the process to finish.
Verify integrity of Steam Files

Battle.Net:

  • Launch Battle.Net and access your Library.
  • Click on Call of Duty: Black Ops 6.
  • Click on the ‘Gear’ icon next to the Play button and select ‘Scan and Repair.
Scan and Repair option

Step

4

Make sure your system is not overheating

Overheating is one of the biggest causes of game crashes, and the same could be happening to you. If the temperature of your CPU or GPU exceed the safe limits, the system will cause Black Ops 6 to crash to protect the components from getting damaged.

For this, you can use a too like HWiNFO to monitor the temperature of the components. If you notice that the temps are too high, turn off your system and take measures to prevent the system from overheating.

Issues like overheating can be quickly fixed by cleaning the PC and replacing the thermal paste of the CPU and GPU. Malware can also cause your system to overheat, so we recommend downloading a good Antivirus to scan the system.

Black Ops 6 black screen – potential fixes

Aside from crashing issues, some players are also getting a black screen when trying to play Black Ops 6. If the problem is not going away on its own after you restart the game, you can try following the methods mentioned below to resolve it.

  • Try using a new HDMI or DP cable. If you notice there are too many bends or cuts in the old cable, then it might be damaged. In such a case, you need to try using a new cable to see if that makes the black screen go away.
  • Make sure your monitor is plugged into your graphics card. A big mistake many people can make is that they end up connecting the monitor with the motherboard instead of the dedicated GPU. This can cause a black screen to appear in the game, as it won’t be getting the graphics power it needs from the GPU. So, take out the HDMI or DP cable from the motherboard and connect it with your graphics card.
  • Remove the GPU from the motherboard and connect it again. In some cases, if the GPU is not placed correctly on the board, it will fail to work. So, turn off your PC, carefully remove the GPU from the motherboard, insert it in the PCIe slot, connect its cable, and turn on your system again.

Conclusion

Crashing issues can ruin your gameplay experience. In some cases, the game will stop crashing on its own after you restart your PC or the game. However, if the problem does not go away on its own, then you’ll need to troubleshoot it yourself. And if nothing seems to work, then your last resort will be to reinstall the game.

Abdul is a tech writer and Editor for PC Guide, specializing in all things tech, gaming, and hardware.