Windows Security Blocking Games from Launching

Thomas Nuffan · Apr 30, 2021

This is extremely frustrating. So I try and launch a game, doesn't matter what it is -- either from gamepass or something that I own. In this example, let's say I try and launch Crusader Kings 3. I'll try and launch it from the Xbox App via Gamepass and nothing happens -- for the most part. If I ctrl+Alt_Del and go to the task manager, I can see that CK3 is in fact running, but it still doesn't launch. I've gone though the steps to "repair" the game files, uninstalled and reinstalled the game, BOUGHT the game from the Microsoft Store and still nothing. If I "Run as Administrator" from a desktop shortcut, made while installing the game doesn't even work.

The only thing that has worked is if I disable real-time protection within Windows security and then the game launches flawlessly every time. I've also gone through the steps to add the game folder from WindowsApps (a hidden folder) to the exclusion list and that does absolutely nothing. Paradox even has a KB on the issue: Game Pass - Game won't launch – Paradox Interactive Helpdesk (paradoxplaza.com)

Even if it did, I shouldn't have to mess with system files to run a game, especially from Gamepass, a Microsoft product. This is unacceptable.

:)

Thomas Nuffan

I'm sorry to be blunt, but did you even read my issue? None of that is going to fix the issue at hand as it has been some of the remedies I've tried but to no success.

XBF Zineb F

Hello there @Thomas Nuffan, I hope everything is going well!

Thank you for reaching Microsoft Xbox Forum support. I want you not to worry about the situation because I am here to help you out! Please access the link below and follow the instructions provided to troubleshoot the issue.

The link: Troubleshoot gameplay issues on a Windows 10 device | Xbox Support

I wish you a lovely day, and I hope this helps you out! All the best!

Kind Regards

Stay safe, and happy gaming!

OpticRJames

I understand, please go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Windows Security > Open Windows Security > App & Browse control > Reputation-based protection settings. From that section, under "Potentially unwanted app blocking" uncheck the "Block Apps." After doing that, try launching the game again and see if it works.

AwkwurdBoi

I have uninstalled and reinstalled Omori several times. I did again today and while downloading it had a small error, or that's what the notification bell told me, but the error was resolved before I could do anything.

Right now, I'm only using Windows Security for virus protection. I checked if the firewall was blocking the app but it wasn't so I turned off Real-time protection on Windows Security for a moment and tried to launch the game and the same error occurred.

I'm not sure what to do next.

SwordofWhedon

If you're installing from disc it's not going to work. The DRM, SecuROM is actively blocked by modern Windows as it is a major security hazard

The game is frequently on sale on Steam in a new, updated version that does work

https://store.steampowered.com/app/32470?snr=2_9_100000_

Windows Security Blocking Games from Launching