If you’re eager to dive into the futuristic feline adventure of Stray but find the game refusing to launch on your PC or Steam Deck, you’re not alone. Many players have reported issues ranging from crashing on startup to the game not responding at all. Fortunately, there are several tried-and-tested solutions you can attempt to get the game running smoothly.
This guide will walk you through the most common causes and their fixes so you can get back to exploring the neon-lit alleys of Stray’s post-human world.
1. Check Minimum System Requirements
Before proceeding with any troubleshooting, it’s important to verify that your system meets the game’s minimum hardware requirements. Even if the game installed correctly, hardware limitations can prevent it from launching.
- OS: Windows 10 or later, 64-bit
- Processor: Intel Core i5-8400 or AMD Ryzen 5 2600
- Memory: 8 GB RAM
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 650 Ti, AMD Radeon R7 360
- Storage: 10 GB available space
If you’re running Stray on Steam Deck, ensure your SteamOS is up to date.
2. Verify Game Files Through Steam
Corrupted or incomplete game files are a common cause of launch problems. Steam offers a simple way to verify the integrity of your game files:
- Open your Steam Library.
- Right-click on Stray and select Properties.
- Go to the Installed Files tab.
- Click Verify integrity of game files.
This process may take a few minutes, but it can resolve a wide range of issues without needing a full reinstall.
3. Update Your GPU Drivers
Outdated graphics drivers are a leading cause of game crashes and failed launches. Both NVIDIA and AMD regularly release updates optimized for new games like Stray.
To update your drivers:
- Visit the NVIDIA Drivers or AMD Support page.
- Select your GPU model and download the latest drivers.
- Install the drivers and restart your system.
On Steam Deck, update system software through SteamOS settings under System > Software Updates.
4. Run the Game as Administrator
Sometimes, the game may lack the necessary permissions to launch correctly. You can resolve this by running the game as an administrator:
- Navigate to your Stray install folder (Right-click in Steam > Manage > Browse local files).
- Right-click Stray.exe and select Run as administrator.
If this works, you can make this the default by changing its compatibility settings.
5. Disable Overlays and Background Apps
Overlays, such as those from Discord or Steam itself, can sometimes conflict with game startup.
To disable Steam Overlay:
- Right-click Stray in your Library.
- Select Properties, and under the General section uncheck Enable the Steam Overlay while in-game.
Also, try closing apps like Razer Synapse, MSI Afterburner, or any screen recording software, which can interfere with the game.
6. Use Compatibility Mode or Proton on Steam Deck
If you’re using Steam Deck or even playing on Linux, compatibility layers like Proton can make a big difference. Try switching Proton versions to fix launch issues.
To change Proton version:
- In your Steam Library, right-click Stray and select Properties.
- Go to the Compatibility tab.
- Check the box for Force the use of a specific Steam Play compatibility tool.
- Select a different Proton version, such as Proton Experimental or Proton GE.
7. Reinstall the Game
If all else fails, a clean reinstall might be your best bet. Be sure to delete all residual files after uninstalling to avoid conflicts.
To ensure a clean slate:
- Uninstall Stray through Steam.
- Delete any leftover files in the game’s install directory.
- Reinstall the game fresh from Steam.
Final Thoughts
Stray is a stunning adventure adored for its visuals and unique perspective. Launch issues can be frustrating, but with the right approach, you’ll be back to exploring forgotten cities and making feline friends in no time.
If you continue to experience problems, consider checking community forums or contacting the game’s official support. With constant updates and the passionate Stray community, you’re likely to find a solution that works for you.
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