When your computer boots up and the BIOS loads successfully but your games refuse to start, it can be confusing and frustrating. The good news is that this problem usually points to software or configuration issues rather than severe hardware damage. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the most common reasons why your BIOS works but your games won’t launch—and how to fix it.
If you ever need to download or update your BIOS safely, you can find trusted files and resources at Ps Bios, which offers reliable BIOS downloads and guidance.
Understanding the Problem
When your computer powers on, the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) performs essential hardware checks before loading your operating system. If the BIOS screen appears but games fail to start once you’re in Windows (or any other OS), it indicates that your hardware is likely fine, but there’s an issue at the software or driver level.
Let’s break down the possible causes and fixes.
1. Graphics Driver Issues or GPU Configuration Problems
One of the most common reasons games fail to launch is faulty or outdated graphics drivers. Since modern games depend heavily on your GPU, even a minor driver conflict can stop them from running.
Possible causes:
- Corrupted or outdated GPU drivers.
- System using the wrong GPU (especially in laptops with both integrated and discrete GPUs).
- Incorrect BIOS GPU settings.
Fixes:
- Update or reinstall your GPU drivers.
Use the manufacturer’s site (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel) to download the latest version. - Perform a clean install with a tool like Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) to remove old files completely.
- Set your preferred GPU in BIOS or Windows Graphics Settings if you have both an integrated and dedicated GPU.
2. Software Conflicts or Background Programs Interfering
Sometimes, background software or third-party applications can prevent games from launching properly. Overlays, screen recorders, antivirus programs, or even outdated peripherals may cause conflicts.
Possible causes:
- Overlays from tools like Discord, NVIDIA GeForce Experience, or Steam.
- Controller or peripheral driver conflicts.
- Unnecessary startup programs using too much memory.
Fixes:
- Try a clean boot—disable all non-Microsoft startup items and services.
- Temporarily turn off overlays and background software.
- Unplug any unnecessary peripherals before launching the game.
If games launch successfully afterward, you’ve likely found the cause.
3. Corrupted Game or System Files
If essential game files or system libraries are missing, games will fail to start even though your computer boots normally.
Fixes:
- Use your game launcher (Steam, Epic Games, etc.) to verify or repair game files.
- Run System File Checker (SFC) by typing sfc /scannow in Command Prompt to repair corrupted Windows files.
- Use DISM tools (DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth) to restore system health.
- Reinstall the game if issues persist.
4. Storage Drive or Boot Drive Problems
A failing hard drive or SSD can also cause system instability. While your BIOS may still load (since it’s stored on the motherboard), games won’t start if the operating system can’t access their files properly.
Fixes:
- Run CHKDSK to scan for disk errors.
- Check your drive’s SMART status using free tools like CrystalDiskInfo.
- Move your games to a different storage drive and test again.
- If the drive is old or slow, consider upgrading to an SSD.
5. BIOS or Firmware Misconfiguration
Incorrect BIOS settings may interfere with how your operating system and hardware communicate, preventing games from running.
Possible BIOS-related issues:
- Secure Boot or Compatibility Support Module (CSM) is incorrectly configured.
- Outdated BIOS firmware.
- Wrong boot mode (Legacy vs. UEFI).
Fixes:
- Reset your BIOS to default settings to remove incorrect configurations.
- Update your BIOS firmware carefully following your motherboard manufacturer’s instructions.
- Make sure Secure Boot is correctly set up for your operating system.
- If you suspect a BIOS corruption issue, download a fresh, verified file from Ps Bios and re-flash your BIOS carefully.
⚠️ Important: Flashing your BIOS incorrectly can permanently damage your motherboard. Always ensure the downloaded file matches your exact motherboard model and follow safe update procedures.
6. Hardware Malfunctions (Less Common)
If all software-related fixes fail, the problem could lie with your hardware. While less likely, unstable components can cause games to crash or fail to launch entirely.
Possible hardware issues:
- Defective RAM or power supply.
- Overheating GPU or CPU.
- Failing motherboard components.
Fixes:
- Test your RAM using Windows Memory Diagnostic or MemTest86.
- Monitor system temperatures using tools like HWMonitor.
- Swap out the PSU or test with another GPU if possible.
7. Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Summary
- Update your graphics drivers and perform a clean install.
- Disable background apps and perform a clean boot.
- Verify or reinstall game files.
- Run system scans (SFC and DISM).
- Check your storage drive’s health.
- Reset BIOS settings to default or safely update your BIOS if needed.
- Check your hardware for faults if all else fails.
Following these steps should help you identify why your BIOS loads but your games won’t start.
Final Thoughts
When your BIOS loads but games refuse to start, it’s rarely a hardware catastrophe. In most cases, the issue comes down to drivers, corrupted files, or misconfigured BIOS settings. By systematically checking your system—from GPU drivers to firmware—you can usually get your games running again without major repairs.
If you need a trusted BIOS file or guide for reinstalling or updating, head to Ps Bios for reliable resources and downloads.