Microsoft is currently delving into a series of concerning reports regarding game stability following the installation of August’s Patch Tuesday update for Windows 11. The tech giant has acknowledged these issues on its Release Health page, where users have noted that certain games may become unresponsive, unexpectedly close, or even trigger an “EXCEPTIONACCESSVIOLATION” error, leading to unanticipated device restarts.
The troubles seem to have emerged in the wake of the release of KB5121003 for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2. While the support page for this update currently lists no known issues, Microsoft has confirmed that it is actively investigating the reports of game crashes. Notably, the problem does not appear to affect every title; among those reported are ARC Raiders, MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls, and The Finals.
In a measured response, Microsoft has refrained from accepting full responsibility, stating, “We are presently investigating to determine if this is an issue caused by Microsoft.” Users have speculated that the recent tightening of kernel handle validation may have exposed vulnerabilities in third-party drivers that Windows had previously tolerated, resulting in crashes when software attempts to operate outside its designated parameters. While this approach may enhance security, it could pose challenges for applications that relied on the former leniency. Microsoft has yet to confirm this theory.
MORE CONTEXT
August’s Patch Tuesday was significant, addressing a total of 421 Microsoft CVEs, with 236 of these affecting Windows systems. Given the scale of the update, uninstalling it as a workaround may not be advisable. The reports coincide with Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to tighten its stance on outdated and incompatible kernel drivers. Earlier this year, in March, the company removed trust for kernel drivers that had not undergone the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP), further securing the Windows kernel. Additionally, Microsoft has initiated its Driver Quality Initiative (DQI) aimed at enhancing overall operating system stability.
As the investigation continues, Microsoft has encouraged affected users to provide feedback, indicating a commitment to resolving these issues and improving user experience.
