Why Does Call of Duty Keep Crashing on Xbox Series S?

Experiencing Call of Duty crashes on your Xbox Series S can be incredibly frustrating. Several factors can contribute to these crashes, ranging from software glitches to hardware limitations. Let’s explore the common culprits and how to troubleshoot them.

Common Causes of Call of Duty Crashes on Xbox Series S

  • Overheating: The Xbox Series S, while compact, can overheat during intense gaming sessions, causing crashes.
  • Software Bugs: Call of Duty, like any complex game, can have bugs that lead to instability.
  • Corrupted Game Files: Damaged game files can trigger crashes during gameplay.
  • Outdated Software: Running outdated versions of the game or the Xbox operating system can cause compatibility issues.
  • Full Storage: Insufficient storage space can hinder the game’s performance and stability.
  • Network Issues: Unstable or slow internet connections can lead to crashes, especially in multiplayer modes.
  • Hardware Issues: In rare cases, underlying hardware problems with the Xbox Series S itself can be responsible.

Troubleshooting Steps to Fix Call of Duty Crashes

Here are a few troubleshooting steps that can fix your game.

1. Check for Overheating

Ensure your Xbox Series S has adequate ventilation. Avoid placing it in enclosed spaces or near heat sources. If overheating is suspected, give the console a break to cool down.

2. Restart Your Xbox Series S

A simple restart can resolve temporary software glitches. Fully power down the console, wait a few seconds, and then turn it back on.

3. Update Call of Duty

Make sure you have the latest version of Call of Duty installed. Game developers frequently release patches to address bugs and improve stability. Head to your game library to update.

4. Update Your Xbox Operating System

Keep your Xbox operating system up to date. Microsoft releases updates that enhance performance and resolve compatibility issues. Navigate to Settings > System > Updates to check for and install any available updates.

5. Clear the Cache

Clearing the cache can remove temporary files that may be causing conflicts. To do this:

  • Go to Settings > System > Storage.
  • Select your primary storage device.
  • Choose Clear local saved games.
  • Follow the on-screen prompts.

Note: This will not delete your game progress but may require you to re-download some game data.

6. Verify the Integrity of Game Files

Corrupted game files can lead to crashes. Reinstalling the game can replace damaged files with fresh copies.

7. Free Up Storage Space

Ensure you have enough free storage space on your Xbox Series S. Delete unnecessary games, apps, or media files to create more room.

8. Check Your Internet Connection

If you’re experiencing crashes during online gameplay, check your internet connection. Ensure you have a stable and reliable connection with sufficient bandwidth. Restart your router and modem if necessary.

9. Disable On-Demand Texture Streaming

In Call of Duty settings, try disabling On-Demand Texture Streaming. This feature can sometimes cause performance issues, especially on lower-end hardware like the Series S.

  • Go to Settings within Call of Duty.
  • Navigate to the Graphics tab.
  • Find On-Demand Texture Streaming and disable it.

10. Adjust Graphics Settings

Lowering the graphics settings can reduce the strain on your Xbox Series S and improve stability. Experiment with different settings to find a balance between visual quality and performance.

11. Reinstall Call of Duty

If the problems persist, reinstalling Call of Duty can resolve deeply rooted issues. Uninstall the game, restart your Xbox Series S, and then reinstall the game from the Xbox Store.

12. Factory Reset Your Xbox Series S (Last Resort)

If all else fails, performing a factory reset can restore your Xbox Series S to its original state and eliminate any underlying software conflicts. Note: This will erase all your data, so back up any important files before proceeding.

  • Go to Settings > System > Console info > Reset console.
  • Choose whether to keep your games and apps or remove everything.
  • Follow the on-screen prompts.

13. Contact Xbox Support

If none of the above steps resolve the crashes, there may be a hardware issue with your Xbox Series S. Contact Xbox Support for further assistance and potential repairs.

Conclusion

Call of Duty crashes on the Xbox Series S can be caused by various factors. By systematically troubleshooting each potential cause, you can often identify and resolve the issue. If the problem persists, seeking professional support may be necessary. Remember to keep your console and games updated, maintain adequate ventilation, and ensure a stable internet connection for optimal performance.