Gaming Issues Plague Windows 11 Users, Microsoft Blames RGB Lighting Devices
If you’re a gamer who’s been experiencing frustrating issues with your Windows 11 system lately, you’re not alone. Many users have reported that their games are crashing or failing to launch after installing the August 2026 Windows updates, leaving them unable to enjoy their favorite titles. But what’s behind this problem? According to Microsoft, the culprit may be peripherals with RGB lighting.
Microsoft has acknowledged that an issue is affecting systems running Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2, causing games like ARC Raiders, MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls, and The Finals to malfunction or crash. In some cases, users are even experiencing freezes, “EXCEPTION_ACCESS_VIOLATION” errors, and unexpected system restarts. This issue is not limited to just a few specific systems; it appears to be widespread, affecting multiple PCs with various hardware configurations.
So, how does this problem work? It’s related to the installation of drivers or components by RGB devices on affected Windows systems. These peripherals may install code or drivers with file names similar to inpoutx64, which can trigger the issue when certain games are launched. Microsoft is currently investigating the relationship between these RGB components and the games that cause the problem.
In a statement, Microsoft noted that it’s working to understand the root cause of this issue and will provide an update when more information becomes available. In the meantime, users who are experiencing problems may be able to find temporary relief by deleting the inpoutx64.sys file from their Windows drivers folder. This is just a workaround, however, and not a permanent fix.
This isn’t the first time that Microsoft has had to address gaming performance and stability issues caused by Windows updates. The company has previously blocked or lifted compatibility holds for various games due to problems with specific features or drivers. It’s clear that these issues can have a significant impact on gamers, who rely on their systems to deliver a smooth and enjoyable experience.
So what can users do in the meantime? While Microsoft works on a permanent fix, players may want to consider disabling RGB lighting on their peripherals or avoiding games that are known to trigger this issue. This is just a temporary solution, but it may help prevent further frustration until a more comprehensive fix is available. By being aware of this potential problem and taking proactive steps, gamers can minimize the disruption caused by these issues and continue enjoying their favorite titles without interruption.
Source: Bleeping Computer — 2026-08-21