If you’re a gamer who’s been experiencing frustrating issues with your games crashing or failing to launch since installing the latest Windows updates, you’re not alone. Microsoft has confirmed that ongoing problems are affecting players of popular titles such as ARC Raiders, MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls, and The Finals on systems running Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2.
The issues were first reported after the release of Windows updates on August 11, with users experiencing a range of problems including game freezes, “EXCEPTION_ACCESS_VIOLATION” errors, and even unexpected system restarts. Microsoft has been investigating the matter and has now provided an update suggesting that the root cause may lie in peripherals or internal device components with RGB lighting features.
According to Microsoft, devices with RGB lighting may install drivers or code components with file names similar to inpoutx64, which can trigger the issue when certain games are launched. The company is still working to understand the relationship between these RGB components and the affected games, but has promised to provide an update when more information becomes available.
In the meantime, game developer Embark Studios, behind ARC Raiders and The Finals, has shared a multi-step temporary workaround that requires users to delete the inpoutx64.sys file from their system. While this may provide some relief for gamers who are experiencing issues, it’s clear that Microsoft needs to take more decisive action to resolve the problem.
This isn’t the first time that Windows updates have caused gaming performance and stability issues. Previous incidents have led to Microsoft blocking upgrades or lifting compatibility holds on certain devices. It’s a reminder that even with regular updates, software can still be imperfect, and it’s essential for gamers and system administrators alike to stay vigilant and monitor for potential problems.
For now, gamers who are experiencing issues may want to try Embark Studios’ workaround, but it’s crucial that Microsoft takes responsibility for resolving the problem as quickly as possible. With the gaming community eagerly awaiting a fix, it’s time for Microsoft to deliver a solution that addresses this issue once and for all.
In practical terms, what can you do if you’re experiencing issues with your games? Firstly, check if your system has any peripherals or internal components with RGB lighting features. If so, try Embark Studios’ temporary workaround by deleting the inpoutx64.sys file from your system. While this may provide some relief, it’s essential to keep an eye on Microsoft’s progress in resolving the problem and follow their guidance for a more permanent fix. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can minimize the disruption caused by these issues and get back to gaming without a hitch.
Source: Bleeping Computer — 2026-08-21