Why Does Bonelab Keep Crashing on Quest 2? Troubleshooting Guide

Bonelab, the highly anticipated VR physics sandbox, has captivated players with its immersive gameplay and realistic interactions. However, some Quest 2 users have reported experiencing frustrating crashes that interrupt their gaming sessions. This comprehensive guide dives into the common causes of Bonelab crashes on Quest 2 and provides detailed troubleshooting steps to get you back into the metaverse.

Common Causes of Bonelab Crashes

Several factors can contribute to Bonelab crashing on your Quest 2. Understanding these potential culprits is the first step toward resolving the issue:

  • Insufficient System Resources: Bonelab is a demanding game, and the Quest 2, while powerful, has its limitations. Running multiple background apps or pushing the headset too hard can strain resources, leading to crashes.
  • Software Glitches: Like any software, Bonelab can contain bugs or glitches that trigger crashes under specific circumstances. These issues are often addressed in game updates.
  • Corrupted Game Files: Damaged or incomplete game files can cause instability and crashes. This can happen during the download or installation process.
  • Outdated Firmware/Software: Using an outdated version of the Quest 2’s operating system or the Bonelab game itself can create compatibility issues and lead to crashes.
  • Overheating: Prolonged gameplay can cause the Quest 2 to overheat, triggering performance issues and crashes as a safety measure.
  • Modding Issues: While mods can enhance gameplay, incompatible or poorly implemented mods can introduce instability and cause Bonelab to crash.
  • Network Issues: Though less common, network connectivity issues (especially if cloud saves are enabled) can sometimes contribute to crashes, particularly if the game struggles to sync data.

Troubleshooting Steps to Fix Bonelab Crashes

Here are several troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve Bonelab crashes on your Quest 2:

1. Restart Your Quest 2

This is the simplest and often most effective solution. A simple restart can clear temporary files and processes that may be causing conflicts.

  • How to Restart: Press and hold the power button on your Quest 2 until the power menu appears. Select “Restart.”

2. Close Background Apps

Free up system resources by closing any unnecessary apps running in the background.

  • How to Close Apps: Access the Quick Settings panel (usually by tapping the Oculus button), then navigate to the “Quick Access” or similar section to view and close running apps.

3. Verify Game File Integrity

Check for and repair any corrupted game files.

  • How to Verify (if applicable): This process varies depending on where you purchased the game. If you purchased it through the official Meta Quest Store, you may need to uninstall and reinstall to ensure a clean version. Some third-party platforms offer verification tools. Consult the specific platform’s documentation.

4. Update Your Quest 2 Firmware

Ensure your Quest 2 is running the latest firmware version.

  • How to Update: Go to Settings > System > Software Update. If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to install it.

5. Update Bonelab

Install the latest version of Bonelab to benefit from bug fixes and performance improvements.

  • How to Update: The game should update automatically if you have automatic updates enabled. Otherwise, check for updates in the Meta Quest Store.

6. Reduce Graphics Settings

Lowering the graphics settings can reduce the strain on your Quest 2’s hardware.

  • How to Adjust (if available): Bonelab may have in-game graphics settings. Check the settings menu for options to lower the resolution or detail levels.

7. Ensure Adequate Cooling

Avoid playing in hot environments and take breaks to allow your Quest 2 to cool down.

  • Tips for Cooling:
    • Play in a well-ventilated area.
    • Avoid direct sunlight.
    • Take breaks every 30-60 minutes.

8. Remove Mods (If Applicable)

If you’re using mods, try disabling them to see if they’re causing the crashes.

  • How to Remove: This depends on how you installed the mods. Consult the mod’s documentation or community forums for instructions.

9. Reinstall Bonelab

If all else fails, try uninstalling and reinstalling Bonelab. This will ensure a fresh installation of the game files.

  • How to Reinstall: Go to the Meta Quest Store, find Bonelab in your library, and select “Uninstall.” Once uninstalled, select “Install” to download and reinstall the game.

10. Factory Reset (Last Resort)

As a last resort, you can try factory resetting your Quest 2. This will erase all data on your headset, so back up any important files beforehand.

  • How to Factory Reset: Press and hold the power and volume (-) buttons simultaneously until the boot menu appears. Use the volume buttons to navigate to “Factory Reset” and press the power button to select it. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Contact Support

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps above and Bonelab is still crashing, contact the game’s developers or Meta Quest support for further assistance. Provide them with detailed information about the crashes, including any error messages you see and the steps you’ve already taken to troubleshoot the issue.

By following these steps, you can identify and resolve the most common causes of Bonelab crashes on your Quest 2, allowing you to enjoy the game without interruption.