Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is one of the most highly anticipated RPGs, offering stunning visuals and immersive gameplay. However, some players encounter a DirectX 12 (DX12) error, preventing the game from launching or causing crashes.
This guide will explain the DX12 error, why it occurs, and how to fix it with step-by-step troubleshooting solutions.
Understanding the Final Fantasy VII Rebirth DX12 Error
Before discussing solutions, it’s important to understand DirectX 12 and why it matters. DirectX 12 is a graphics API that allows games to communicate efficiently with your graphics card (GPU). It optimizes rendering performance, improves visual effects, and helps distribute processing tasks between the CPU and GPU.
When the DX12 error appears, it’s usually due to one of the following reasons:
- Outdated graphics drivers that are not fully compatible with DirectX 12.
- Windows is missing essential DirectX updates needed to run the game.
- Incompatible hardware, especially on older GPUs that don’t support DX12 Ultimate.
- Corrupted game files causing issues with loading DirectX libraries.
- Software conflicts from overlays, antivirus software, or background applications.
Let’s check if your system meets the game’s requirements before applying fixes.
Checking System Requirements and Compatibility
Before troubleshooting, ensure your PC meets the minimum and recommended Final Fantasy VII Rebirth specifications. None of the fixes will work if your hardware isn’t powerful enough or lacks DX12 support.
The minimum requirements for the game include:
- OS: Windows 10 (64-bit) or newer
- Processor: Intel Core i5-9600K / AMD Ryzen 5 3600
- RAM: 16GB
- Graphics Card: NVIDIA GTX 1660 / AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT
- DirectX Version: 12
- Storage: 150GB available space
For optimal performance, the recommended specs are:
- Processor: Intel Core i7-12700 / AMD Ryzen 7 5800X
- Graphics Card: NVIDIA RTX 3070 / AMD RX 6800 XT
- DirectX Version: 12 Ultimate
If you’re unsure whether your PC supports DirectX 12, you can check by doing the following:
- Press
Win + R, type dxdiag, and press Enter. - Under the Display tab, look for DirectX Version.
- If it shows DirectX 12, your system is compatible.
If your PC meets the requirements but is still experiencing the DX12 error, follow the troubleshooting steps below.
How to Fix the Final Fantasy VII Rebirth DX12 Error
To fix the DX12 error in FFVII, follow these steps one by one. I guarantee one will resolve this issue.
1. Updating Graphics Card Drivers
Graphics drivers are essential for rendering game visuals, and outdated or corrupted drivers can prevent Final Fantasy VII Rebirth from utilizing DirectX 12 properly. Updating them can often resolve crashes and graphical issues.
To update your drivers, visit your GPU manufacturer’s website and download the latest drivers:
- NVIDIA Users: Download GeForce Drivers
- AMD Users: Download Radeon Drivers
- Intel Users: Download Intel Drivers
After installing the update, restart your PC and try launching the game again. If the error persists, move on to the next fix.
2. Updating DirectX 12 via Windows Update
DirectX 12 is updated through Windows Update, so if your system is missing essential files, the game may fail to launch or crash unexpectedly. Ensuring your Windows installation is up to date can resolve compatibility issues.
To check for updates:
- Open Settings (
Win + I) and go to Windows Update. - Click Check for Updates.
- Install any pending updates and restart your PC.
If your game still doesn’t run properly, proceed to verify the game files.
3. Verifying Game Files (Steam & Epic Games)
Corrupt or missing files can cause DirectX 12 errors. If any game files are damaged, verifying their integrity will prompt Steam or Epic Games to repair them.
For Steam users:
- Open Steam and go to the Library.
- Right-click Final Fantasy VII Rebirth → Properties.
- Navigate to Installed Files → Click Verify Integrity of Game Files.
- Wait for the process to complete and restart your PC.
For Epic Games users:
- Open Epic Games Launcher.
- Go to the Library and find Final Fantasy VII Rebirth.
- Click the three-dot menu → Select Verify.
If Steam or Epic detects any missing or corrupt files, it will re-download them automatically.
5. Adjusting Graphics Settings for Better Stability
If your game launches but crashes mid-session, adjusting the graphics settings may help.
- Lower Graphics Settings: Reduce Ray Tracing, DLSS, or high-resolution textures, as these can put additional strain on your GPU.
- Switch to Windowed Mode: Running the game in borderless windowed mode instead of fullscreen may help prevent crashes.
- Ensure the Game Uses Your Dedicated GPU: Some games default to integrated graphics on laptops instead of the powerful dedicated GPU. To fix this:
- Open NVIDIA Control Panel → Manage 3D Settings → Program Settings.
- Find Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and set it to run on High-Performance GPU.
Advanced Troubleshooting (For Persistent Errors)
If none of the above fixes work, try these advanced solutions:
- Disable Overlays & Background Apps: Programs like Steam Overlay, Discord Overlay, or GeForce Experience can interfere with DirectX 12. Disable them and relaunch the game.
- Check Windows Event Viewer for Crash Logs: Press
Win + X, select Event Viewer, then navigate to Windows Logs → Application to find error messages related to the game. - Monitor GPU/CPU Temperatures: Overheating can cause crashes. Use MSI Afterburner or HWMonitor to monitor temps. If the GPU exceeds 85°C, consider improving airflow.
- Run the Game as Administrator: Right-click Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and select Run as Administrator.
Community and Support Resources
If you are still experiencing the DX12 error after trying all the troubleshooting steps, seeking help from official and community resources may provide additional solutions. Square Enix offers official support, where players can submit tickets describing their issues and crash logs. This allows the developers to analyze the problem and provide a tailored solution.
The Steam Community Forums are another great place to check, as many players share their experiences and potential fixes that may not be widely documented. Similarly, Reddit discussions, particularly in gaming subreddits such as r/FinalFantasyVII, often have real-time updates, workarounds, and advice from other gamers who have encountered and resolved similar issues.
Waiting for game patches or driver updates from Square Enix, NVIDIA, or AMD can sometimes resolve underlying compatibility problems. Keeping an eye on official announcements and patch notes can help you stay informed about potential fixes.
Conclusion
Our comprehensive guide on fixing the Final Fantasy VII Rebirth DX12 error covers everything from basic troubleshooting to advanced solutions. I hope this guide has been helpful in resolving your issue so you can enjoy the game without crashes or launch failures.
If you’ve followed all the steps, including updating your GPU drivers, verifying game files, adjusting graphics settings, and ensuring your system meets DirectX 12 compatibility, your game should now run smoothly. However, if the problem persists, checking for game patches, Windows updates, or seeking help from the community forums may provide additional solutions.
If this guide helped you, let us know in the comments or share your experience with others facing the same issue. Happy gaming!
