Experiencing crashes in Baldur’s Gate 3? The most common fix is to update your graphics drivers. Outdated drivers often cause instability. If that doesn’t work, this guide provides solutions to common BG3 crash causes, getting you back to your adventure in Faerûn.

Troubleshooting Baldur’s Gate 3 Crashes

1. Update Your Graphics Drivers

Outdated graphics drivers are a frequent cause of crashes for NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel GPUs. Updating resolves compatibility issues and improves performance.

  • For NVIDIA: Download the latest drivers from the NVIDIA website or use the GeForce Experience app. Perform a clean installation.
  • For AMD: Download the latest drivers from the AMD website or use AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition. Opt for a clean install.
  • For Intel: Download the latest drivers from the Intel website or use the Intel Driver & Support Assistant.

Restart your computer after installing. If the crashing persists, continue to the next steps.

2. Verify System Requirements

Ensure your PC meets the minimum system requirements. Recommended specs offer a more stable experience. Key components:

  • CPU: Intel i5-4690 / AMD FX 8350 (Minimum), Intel i7-8700K / AMD Ryzen 5 3600 (Recommended)
  • RAM: 8 GB (Minimum), 16 GB (Recommended)
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 / AMD Radeon RX 480 (Minimum), NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 Super / AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT (Recommended)
  • DirectX: Version 11
  • Storage: 150 GB available space

If your system barely meets the minimums, lower the graphics settings in the game’s options.

3. Close Background Applications

Background applications, especially those with overlays (Discord, Steam Overlay, NVIDIA GeForce Experience Overlay, AMD Adrenalin Overlay), can conflict with Baldur’s Gate 3.

  • Close unnecessary applications before launching the game.
  • Disable overlays in your graphics card software.
  • Temporarily disable third-party antivirus software (re-enable after testing).

4. Verify Game File Integrity

Corrupted game files cause instability. Use your game launcher’s built-in tool to verify file integrity.

  • Steam:
    • Right-click on Baldur’s Gate 3 in your Steam library.
    • Select “Properties.”
    • Go to the “Local Files” tab.
    • Click “Verify Integrity of Game Files.”
  • GOG Galaxy:
    • Select Baldur’s Gate 3 in your GOG Galaxy library.
    • Click on the “More” button (three dots).
    • Select “Manage” and then “Verify / Repair.”

This process scans and redownloads any corrupted or missing files.

5. Monitor Hardware Temperatures

Safety First: Monitor your hardware temperatures. Overheating leads to instability. Use HWMonitor or MSI Afterburner to track temperatures.

  • CPU: Aim below 80°C during gameplay.
  • GPU: Aim below 85°C during gameplay.

If temperatures are consistently high, improve your system’s cooling.

6. Change DirectX or Vulkan API

Baldur’s Gate 3 lets you choose between DirectX 11 and Vulkan. One API might perform better depending on your hardware. Switch in the game’s launcher or settings.

7. Check Your RAM

Insufficient or faulty RAM can cause crashes. Use the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool.

  • Type “Windows Memory Diagnostic” in the Windows search bar and run the tool.
  • Follow the prompts to restart your computer and run the memory test.

Replace RAM modules if the test detects errors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Baldur’s Gate 3 keep crashing on my PC?

Common causes include outdated graphics drivers, insufficient system resources, corrupted game files, overheating hardware, and software conflicts. This guide outlines steps to troubleshoot these issues.

How do I update my graphics drivers for Baldur’s Gate 3?

Visit the NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel website (depending on your GPU) and download the latest drivers. You can also use the GeForce Experience (NVIDIA) or AMD Adrenalin software to update. Perform a clean installation to ensure no conflicting files remain.

How do I check if my PC meets the system requirements for Baldur’s Gate 3?

Compare your PC’s CPU, RAM, and GPU specifications against the minimum and recommended requirements listed in this guide. If your system barely meets the minimum, consider lowering the in-game graphics settings for improved stability.