Wuchang: Fallen Feathers is an atmospheric action-RPG that has garnered attention for its stunning visuals, immersive combat system, and deep Chinese folklore narrative. However, many players have encountered a frustrating obstacle when attempting to launch or play the game: the dreaded “Fatal Error.” This error can manifest during launch, causing an immediate crash, or during gameplay, interrupting the experience unexpectedly. Fortunately, there are several tested and verified solutions that can help resolve this issue and get players back into the haunting world of Wuchang.
Understanding the Wuchang Fatal Error
The term “Fatal Error” typically refers to a critical system fault that interrupts the normal flow of a program, forcing it to shut down immediately. When it happens in Wuchang, it can stem from multiple causes such as outdated drivers, corrupted game files, insufficient system resources, or conflicting software. Most commonly, players report the error occurring:
- Immediately after launching the game.
- During loading screens, particularly before cutscenes or difficult-to-render in-game areas.
- After game updates or graphics driver changes.
If you’re encountering a Fatal Error, troubleshooting it methodically can significantly increase your chances of permanently resolving the issue.
Preliminary Checks Before Troubleshooting
Before diving into deeper fixes, perform these preliminary checks to ensure the issue isn’t caused by a fundamental system conflict:
- Check System Requirements: Confirm that your PC meets or exceeds the minimum system requirements for Wuchang. Inadequate specifications can lead to instability.
- Close Background Applications: Some resource-hungry applications or overlay software like Discord, Razer Synapse, or MSI Afterburner can interfere with Wuchang.
- Restart Your Computer: A simple restart can help clear temporary memory conflicts and refresh system processes that might be affecting game stability.
Step-by-Step Fixes for the Wuchang Fatal Error
1. Update Graphics Drivers
Outdated or incompatible GPU drivers can lead to a Fatal Error during both startup and gameplay. Nvidia and AMD often release optimized drivers for major game releases, and missing these updates can affect stability.
- Nvidia Users: Visit the Nvidia Driver Download page and select your GPU series.
- AMD Users: Use the AMD Auto-Detect Tool to install the correct drivers.
After updating, restart your computer and try launching Wuchang again.
2. Verify Game Files Integrity
Corrupted or missing game files are a common culprit for runtime errors. Most game platforms such as Steam or Epic Games offer a function to verify the integrity of game files:
For Steam users:
- Open your Steam Library.
- Right-click on Wuchang: Fallen Feathers → Select Properties.
- Go to the Installed Files tab.
- Click Verify integrity of game files.
This process may take a few minutes. If any files are missing or damaged, they will be redownloaded automatically.
3. Run as Administrator
Sometimes, games require elevated system privileges to run correctly. Running Wuchang as an administrator can prevent crashes caused by system resource access limitations:
- Right-click the game’s executable file or desktop shortcut.
- Select Properties.
- Navigate to the Compatibility tab.
- Check the box for Run this program as an administrator.
- Click Apply and then OK.
Now launch the game to see if the fatal error has been resolved.
4. Disable Overlays and Third-Party Applications
In-game overlays such as the Steam overlay, Nvidia GeForce Experience, Discord, and even Windows Game Bar can occasionally interfere with game rendering or API functions. Disable all overlays to minimize the chances of software conflict.
To disable Steam Overlay:
- Open Steam.
- Go to Library, right-click on Wuchang, and select Properties.
- Under the General section, uncheck Enable the Steam Overlay while in-game.
Repeat similar steps for other overlay apps and test the game afterward.
5. Update Windows and Required Runtime Components
Wuchang depends on certain Windows runtime libraries such as DirectX 12, the Visual C++ Redistributables, and .NET Framework. If these are out of date, the game may fail to function properly.
Make sure to:
- Install the latest Windows updates (Settings → Windows Update).
- Download the latest Visual C++ Redistributables.
- Ensure DirectX 12 is installed and working correctly.
6. Lower In-Game Graphics Settings
Sometimes the fatal error occurs during intense rendering operations. If you can launch the game but it crashes during gameplay, try reducing the graphics settings:
- Launch the game and go to Settings.
- Lower settings like Texture Quality, Shadow Detail, and Anti-Aliasing.
- Disable ray tracing and motion blur.
Additionally, set the game to run in Windowed Mode or Borderless Window to reduce performance demand on your GPU.
7. Monitor System Temperature and Power Supply
Thermal throttling or a weak power supply can also lead to stability issues with modern games like Wuchang. Use tools like HWMonitor or MSI Afterburner to monitor your GPU and CPU temperatures. If temperatures exceed safe limits (usually above 85°C for GPUs), consider cleaning your PC fans or reapplying thermal paste.
Also ensure your power supply unit (PSU) is adequate for your hardware—particularly if you’ve recently upgraded your GPU.
Advanced Fixes if All Else Fails
Disable Overclocking
While GPU or CPU overclocking can boost performance, it can also cause system instability—particularly in newer, unoptimized game builds. Disable any overclocking in your BIOS or via tuning software like MSI Afterburner, and test whether the fatal error persists.
Perform a Clean Boot
A clean boot helps rule out third-party software conflicts by launching your system with minimal startup programs. Here’s how:
- Press Windows + R and type
msconfig, then press Enter. - Go to the Services tab and check Hide all Microsoft services.
- Click Disable all, then navigate to the Startup tab and open Task Manager.
- Disable all unnecessary startup programs.
- Restart your computer and launch the game to test.
Reinstall Wuchang Completely
If none of the above methods resolve the issue, a complete reinstall may be your last resort. Uninstall the game, delete any lingering files in the installation folder, and perform a fresh install using verified sources like Steam. Make sure to keep save files backed up if applicable.
Conclusion
Experiencing a Fatal Error when launching or playing Wuchang: Fallen Feathers can be incredibly frustrating, especially given the anticipation surrounding the game. However, by methodically applying the above steps, most users can isolate the cause of the crash and restore full functionality.
As future patches are released,
