The most common cause is a problem with the PhysX program, especially if you have a new graphics card or have updated your drivers. Other causes can be broken settings files, using the wrong screen size, or problems with the Steam overlay. With that understanding, let’s move on to possible solutions.
1. Run the Game as an Administrator
Sometimes the error appears because the game doesn’t have the permissions it needs. Running it as an administrator gives it full access, which often fixes privilege-related problems.
2. Verify the Integrity of Game Files
If the game is missing important files, or some files are corrupted, Borderlands 2 may crash or show errors. Luckily, Steam can automatically check your files and fix any problems:
In Steam, right-click Borderlands 2 and select Properties.Go to the Local Files tab and click Verify integrity of game files…Wait while Steam checks and replaces any missing or bad files. Once done, try launching the game again.
For more details, see our full guide on how to verify the integrity of Steam game files.
3. Renew the Config Files
Borderlands 2 stores its configuration and save files in your My Documents folder. If these files get corrupted, the game may crash.
4. Check Other Installed Applications
Other programs on your PC can sometimes conflict with Borderlands 2. For example, Teamviewer and the Discord in-game overlay are known to cause problems.
If you use Teamviewer, try uninstalling it and see if the error goes away.For Discord users, disable the in-game overlay feature in Discord’s settings.If you have a third-party antivirus, it could also interfere. Try turning off your antivirus temporarily and check if the game works. If it does, you should add Borderlands 2 to your antivirus exclusions or whitelist. You can also consider changing your antivirus software if needed.
5. Disable the Dolby DAX API Service
The Dolby DAX API service controls certain Dolby Atmos sound features, but sometimes it causes gaming issues, including crashes in Borderlands 2.
6. Change the Installation Directory
Installing Steam or Borderlands 2 in the default Program Files folder can sometimes cause permission issues. Moving your Steam folder can help.
Create a new folder outside of Program Files (for example, “C:\Games\Steam”).Move your entire Steam folder to this new location.Remember, after moving, you may need to create a new shortcut to launch Steam from the new location, as your old shortcuts might not work.
This easy change can resolve issues caused by Windows permission restrictions and allow your games to run smoothly.
