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| Windows 11 logo. Microsoft says one of its latest updates breaks games because of RGB devices. |
One of the latest Windows 11 updates has triggered game freezes and even crashes, leaving gamers frustrated. Now Microsoft has identified an unexpected source of these issues: RGB lighting peripherals and components.
If your gaming PC is decked out with glowing keyboards, mice, or RGB-lit internal components, you might have experienced sudden crashes or system reboots recently. The problem stems from the August cumulative update KB5121003, and Microsoft has confirmed it's not the hardware or lighting itself that's to blame, but rather the drivers and software controlling those flashy lights.
Why Are RGB Drivers to Blame?
According to Microsoft, the issue occurs when systems run certain games, triggering a conflict with driver files installed by RGB hardware utilities. Some of these drivers use file names similar to inpoutx64.sys, a low-level system component that allows software to interact directly with hardware.
Microsoft released an official statement on the issue: "Ongoing investigation indicates that this issue is related to peripherals or internal device components which have RGB lighting features."
For a full overview of the official Windows release health status, you can check Microsoft's update page here: Windows 11 Release Health Status – Gaming Issues
Which Games Are Affected?
So far, Microsoft has identified three specific games impacted by this conflict:
- ARC Raiders
- MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls
- THE FINALS
Depending on your system configuration, you may experience:
- Game freezes or becoming unresponsive
- Unexpected game closures
- An EXCEPTION_ACCESS_VIOLATION error
- Windows rebooting without warning
Embark Studios, the developer behind both ARC Raiders and THE FINALS, previously confirmed that changes to the inpoutx64.sys file following the Windows update were behind the crashes. This driver is commonly used by various hardware utilities and RGB-control software from different peripheral manufacturers.
How to Fix the Issue
Microsoft has not yet released a permanent fix and says it is still investigating the connection between RGB hardware and the affected games. In the meantime, Microsoft recommends that affected users report the problem through the Feedback Hub while the company works on a solution.
Fortunately, Embark Studios has provided players with a temporary workaround that removes the problematic driver, allowing games to run normally again.
For more detailed information on the workaround and further insights, you can read the full report on PCMag: Windows 11 Gaming Issue Linked to RGB Peripherals – PCMag
What Should You Do Now?
If you're experiencing crashes on Windows 11 with the August update installed:
- Check your RGB control software – Ensure it's updated to the latest version.
- Apply Embark's temporary workaround if you're playing ARC Raiders or THE FINALS.
- Submit feedback through the Windows Feedback Hub to help Microsoft prioritize a fix.
- Monitor official channels for when Microsoft releases a permanent patch.
While RGB lighting adds flair to any gaming setup, this unexpected conflict shows how even cosmetic enhancements can sometimes clash with system updates. For now, gamers may need to choose between their glowing peripherals and stable gameplay – but a permanent fix should be on the horizon.