Palworld crashing on startup after the 1.0 update is usually caused by outdated mods or corrupted configuration files. This guide covers every fix that actually works, ordered from most likely to resolve the issue to least.
Before you start: If you were using mods in early access, they are almost certainly incompatible with 1.0. Mods are the #1 cause of launch crashes after a major update.
1. Remove All Old Mods and Leftover Files
This is the single most effective fix. Outdated mods break different game systems after a major update.
- Open your Palworld installation folder (Steam: right-click Palworld → Properties → Installed Files → Browse)
- Navigate to
Content/Paks/and delete the~modsfolder if it exists - Delete any custom DLL files from
Binaries/Win64/ - Press Win+R, type
%localappdata%, find thePalfolder, and rename it toPal.backup - Reinstall the game or verify files
2. Verify Game Files
Steam
- Right-click Palworld in your Steam library
- Properties → Installed Files → Verify integrity of game files
- Wait for the process to complete (may take 5-10 minutes)
Xbox / Game Pass
- Select Palworld in your library
- Manage → Files → Verify and repair
3. Clear Shader Cache
- Open Windows Settings → System → Storage → Temporary files
- Check “DirectX Shader Cache” and remove it
- Restart your PC
4. Force DirectX Version
Add a launch option to force Palworld to use a specific DirectX version. Test both:
-dx12— Forces DirectX 12 (better for most systems)-dx11— Forces DirectX 11 (use if DX12 crashes)
How to add: Steam → Palworld → Properties → Launch Options → enter the command.
5. Disable Overlays
Overlays from other applications can conflict with Palworld’s startup. Disable these before launching:
- Steam Overlay (Steam → Settings → In-Game → uncheck)
- Discord Overlay (Discord → Settings → Game Overlay → disable)
- NVIDIA GeForce Experience Overlay
- Xbox Game Bar (Windows Settings → Gaming → Game Bar → disable)
6. Update Graphics Drivers
An outdated GPU driver is another common cause of launch crashes. Do a clean driver installation:
- Download DDU (Display Driver Uninstaller)
- Boot Windows in Safe Mode
- Run DDU to completely remove your current graphics driver
- Install the latest driver from NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel
7. Fix Epic Online Services
Palworld uses Epic Online Services (EOS) for multiplayer. A corrupted EOS installation can prevent the game from launching:
- Browse to
Program Files (x86)/Epic Games/Epic Online Services/ - Run the EOS installer and select “Repair”
- Restart your PC
8. Disable Antivirus Temporarily
Some antivirus software flags Palworld’s anti-cheat or EOS components as threats. Add Palworld as an exception in your antivirus settings, or temporarily disable it to test.
FAQ
Will I lose my saves by removing mods?
No. Saves are stored in %localappdata%/Pal/Saved/SaveGames/ and are separate from mod files.
Does uninstalling and reinstalling help?
Sometimes, but only if you also delete the %localappdata%/Pal folder. Steam uninstall does not remove mod files or config files.
Related guides: Black Screen Fix | Best PC Settings | Crossplay Guide
