Microsoft has implemented a compatibility hold on its Windows 11 24H2 update for users with certain Ubisoft games installed, citing persistent issues with crashes and unresponsiveness during gameplay. This unusual move aims to safeguard users’ update experience while a resolution is pursued.
The Issue
Following the phased rollout of Windows 11 24H2 in early October, reports surfaced on platforms like Reddit and Microsoft Answers Forums about Ubisoft games crashing—sometimes immediately on startup or during gameplay. Microsoft’s help article acknowledges the problem, stating:
“After installing Windows 11, version 24H2, you might encounter issues with some Ubisoft games. These games might become unresponsive while starting, loading, or during active gameplay.”
The affected titles include:
- Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
- Assassin’s Creed Origins
- Assassin’s Creed Odyssey
- Star Wars Outlaws
- Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora
Additionally, community feedback suggests Far Cry and Need for Speed: Unbound might also be affected, though these titles haven’t been officially confirmed by Microsoft.
Microsoft’s Response
To prevent widespread disruption, Microsoft has blocked the 24H2 update for systems with these Ubisoft games installed. Users already running 24H2 are advised to consider rolling back to 23H2 if they encounter issues, as this may temporarily resolve the problem until an official fix is available.
Ubisoft’s Reaction
Ubisoft has rolled out a hotfix for Star Wars Outlaws, making it playable on 24H2, but fixes for the remaining games remain pending. Collaboration between Ubisoft and Microsoft appears to be ongoing, but no definitive timeline for a resolution has been provided.
A Long-Standing Problem
Interestingly, the issue isn’t entirely new. Reports from Windows Insiders during the preview phase of 24H2 in July—such as those from Reddit user “rachidramone”—highlighted similar problems. Despite these early warnings, the issue persisted into the full release, raising questions about whether it could have been addressed earlier.
A Curious Case of Compatibility
This compatibility block stands out for its publisher-specific nature. While such holds have been applied before for critical issues, targeting systems based on installed games is highly unusual. The root cause remains unclear, and speculation surrounds whether the problem lies in Ubisoft’s software or Windows 11’s update architecture—or perhaps a mix of both.
What’s Next?
For now, users with affected Ubisoft games should:
- Check for updates from Ubisoft: Hotfixes or updates may resolve the issues for individual games.
- Delay updating Windows 11: Stay on 23H2 until a permanent fix is announced.
- Roll back 24H2: If you’ve already updated and are experiencing issues, rolling back is a viable option.
As we await a solution, this situation underscores the importance of robust collaboration between developers and platform providers to address compatibility issues swiftly—before they impact end users on a large scale.
