Cuphead Crashing/Not Opening on PC? Try These 8 FIXES

Do you love playing Cuphead on your computer, but are frustrated by frequent crashes, shutdowns, and black screens? Don’t worry, we’ve got some easy solutions for you! In this article, we’ll discuss some common issues that can cause Cuphead to crash or not open properly on a PC. We’ll provide simple and straightforward steps to help you troubleshoot and resolve these problems, so you can get back to enjoying your favorite game without any interruptions. Now, let’s dive in and fix those glitches!

Solution 1: Restart the PC

When you experience black screen on startup on Windows 11/10 or any bug in Cuphead, it’s recommended to start by restarting the computer before attempting any other fixes.

This is because restarting the computer can resolve any temporary errors caused by outdated cookies and cache or conflicts with other software on your system by simply restarting Windows 11/10.

Solution 2: Run the Program as an Administrator (Permanently) PC

When running Cuphead on PC, there may be times when you need to give the program administrative privileges in order to access certain features or settings and in our case to get rid of black screen.

One way of doing it is by simply right-clicking on the program and selecting “Run as administrator”, but it may not always be enough, as you may need to grant these privileges permanently in order to avoid constantly having to repeat the process.

Here’s how to run a program as an administrator permanently on Windows:

  1. Go to the folder/Application
  2. Right-click on it
  3. A menu will open
  4. Select Properties
  5. A new window will open
  6. Navigate to the “Compatibility Tab“
  7. Under the Settings heading
  8. Find “Run this Program as an administrator“
    Run this program as an adminstrator on Windows 11
  9. Check the box for this option
  10. Click “Apply“

Now your program successfully Runs as an Administrator on Windows 11/10 (Permanently) and you can easily open the program without repeating the steps.

Solution 3: Update Cuphead

For critical errors like not opening, publishers release updates for an optimized and smooth gaming experience. It’s wise to check for any update released before troubleshooting other possible issues.

Playing with outdated versions can also lead to technical glitches, compatibility issues, or even missing out on new content. Here’s how to keep any game updated using its dedicated launcher:

Open the Game Launcher and from its settings locate “Update” Options. Either enable automatic updates or do a manual update if there are any. Restart the Launcher and check if you are still facing not loading.

Solution 4: Close Intensive/Unwanted Programs Or Settings

Your game/PC can be set to maximum performance, try running the game on lower settings to consume fewer resources. This can include:

  1. A lower resolution(From 4k to 1080p or 1080p to 720p)
  2. A lower frame rate (try playing at 60Hz)

If there are too many programs running in the background, using too much internet/RAM/Disk can cause Cuphead not loading on Windows 11.

Closing unwanted programs will help you eliminate the shutdown issue on your PC as your game would be able to get the required resources from Windows 11.

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + ESC keys to open Task Manager
  2. Now check which program is using more Resources, usually indicated by a darker background
  3. Right-click on that program and select End task
    End Task on Windows 11

Now check if the crashing is solved or not.

Solution 5: Try Enabling/Disabling VPN while playing Cuphead

Still running into black screen error on Windows?

If you’ve got a VPN on, try turning it off to see if it makes a difference. If it’s off, switch it on and check again. But heads up! Don’t jump between too many regions; you don’t want to get blocked.

Remember, the right VPN can be a game-changer.

Solution 6: Add Game Exceptions on Antivirus PC

Sometimes antivirus thinks game files are bad guys and stops them, causing the not loading.

To fix this, tell your antivirus that Cuphead files are cool by adding them to the “exceptions” list. This way, you can play without the antivirus messing things up!

Follow the steps below to add an exception on Antivirus (This guide is for Avast, and would be similar for other antiviruses):

  1. Launch Avast on your PC.
  2. Select Menu at the top-right corner of Avast.
  3. Choose Settings from the menu.
    Settings on Avast antivirus
  4. From the left sidebar, choose General > Exceptions
    Add Exception Button on Avast Antivirus
  5. Click ADD EXCEPTION and then type the URL you want to add to it.
  6. Click ADD EXCEPTION to save the URL and check if you can access the URL
    Add exception on Avast Antivirus

If you are still facing Avast Blocking Websites, continue to the next solution.

Solution 7: Check if Windows or Any Driver is Outdated

Sometimes compatibility issues can be a reason for continuous Cuphead black screen on Windows 11.

Often, it’s all about the updates. First off, head to your Windows settings and see if there’s an update waiting. While you’re on this updating spree, dive into your device manager and update your Wi-Fi drivers and update graphics drivers making sure they are on the latest versions.

These updates can make a big difference, fixing a lot of errors.

Solution 8: Contact Cuphead Support

Tried everything and that game error’s still bugging you?

As a last resort, head to the Cuphead’s official website and click ‘Support’ or ‘Contact’. Send them an email, jump into live chat, or post in their official forums.

Share what’s happening and any error messages. Remember to double-check you’re on the official site. Sometimes, reaching out is the best way to get back to gaming!

Stay smart and game on!

Final thoughts

In conclusion, experiencing crashing, shutdowns, black screens, or other issues while playing Cuphead on your PC can be incredibly frustrating. However, with the troubleshooting solutions we have provided, you should be able to overcome these problems easily. Remember to restart your computer, run Cuphead as an administrator, update the game, close unwanted programs, try enabling or disabling VPN, add game exceptions on your antivirus, check for outdated Windows or driver software, and reach out to Cuphead support if necessary. By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to a seamless gaming experience. Best of luck, and enjoy conquering those challenging Cuphead levels!

Sophia
Sophia

Hi! I'm Sophia from France. 🇫🇷 I got my first PlayStation as a gift and saved up big time for my fav, the PS2! 🎮 Now, I write super cool guides and articles about it on thecpuguide.com. Let's game on! 🌟

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