Do I have to repeat the offline method every time?

Yes, the Steam offline mode trick and the Xbox account data workaround must be repeated for each launch until a patch is released.

Will reinstalling the game fix the crashing permanently?

The guide notes that reinstalling the game helps with corrupted files, but if the issue is a server or graphics bug, you will still need to use the temporary workarounds until an official patch is released.

Gears of War Reloaded Crashing on Startup PC Fix Guide

Gears of War: Reloaded

If Gears of War Reloaded is crashing on PC during startup or right after connecting to servers, you’re not the only one. Many players have reported crashes after tweaking graphics settings, installing updates, or even just relaunching the game. The good news is that several workarounds exist to fix the issue and get you back into the campaign or multiplayer.

How to Fix Gears of War Reloaded Crashing on PC Startup

1. Use Steam Offline Mode Trick

One of the most reliable temporary fixes is switching Steam into offline mode.

Open Steam and select “Go Offline.”
Launch Gears of War Reloaded and wait until you reach the main menu.
Switch Steam back online and continue playing.

This bypasses the initial server connection crash. You may need to repeat it each time you launch the game until a patch is released.

2. Reset Graphics Settings to Default

A confirmed bug causes the game to crash if graphics options are changed from the default profile.

Go to: AppData > Local > Coalition > WarGame > SaveData.
Delete or rename the configuration file tied to graphics.
Restart the game to force it to rebuild the settings.

Stick with default presets until the developers fix the graphics settings bug.

3. Clear Xbox Account Save Data

If the crash happens specifically when signing in to Xbox services:

Navigate to: AppData > Local > Coalition > WarGame > SaveData > XBL.ue3pls.
Delete the file before launching.
Log in only after reaching the main menu.

Players have confirmed this lets the game boot normally, though you may need to repeat it each session.

4. Block Server Connection with Firewall

For those only interested in campaign play, blocking the game’s connection can prevent server-related crashes.

Open Windows Firewall settings.
Create a new outbound rule for the GearsReloaded executable.
Launch the game.

This disables online features, but campaign works without crashing.

5. Verify Game Files

Corrupted or incomplete installs can also cause startup crashes.

Right-click the game in Steam or Xbox app.
Select Properties → Installed Files → Verify Integrity.
Repair or reinstall any missing files.

6. Update Drivers and Windows

Outdated GPU drivers or system updates can conflict with the game.

Update to the latest Nvidia or AMD drivers.
Check Windows Update for pending patches.
Restart your PC after updates.

7. Run as Administrator

Some users report better stability when running with elevated privileges.

Right-click the game executable.
Select Run as Administrator.

8. Reinstall as Last Resort

If none of the above fixes work, perform a clean reinstall.

Uninstall the game completely.
Delete leftover folders in AppData and Documents.
Reinstall the game on a different drive if possible.

Extra Tips to Avoid Future Crashes

Avoid changing graphics presets until a hotfix is confirmed.
Keep Steam/Xbox app in offline mode until you reach the menu.
Turn off overlays (Discord, GeForce Experience, Steam Overlay) to reduce conflicts.
If using mods or third-party apps, disable them before launching.

Final Blurb

Gears of War Reloaded crashing on PC startup can be a headache, but most problems come down to server logins and graphics bugs. Using Steam offline mode, resetting config files, or clearing Xbox account data are the fastest fixes. Until the Coalition releases a patch, avoid changing graphics settings and keep backups of your save folder to minimize downtime.

FAQ

Why does Gears of War Reloaded crash on startup?

Most crashes are caused by a server connection bug or corrupted graphics settings. Windows updates and outdated drivers can also trigger the problem.

Do I have to delete files every time?

If you use the Xbox account data workaround, yes. Until a hotfix is released, you may need to clear the file before launching each session.

Can I still play multiplayer?

Yes, but only if you reconnect to Xbox services after reaching the menu. Blocking the game in firewall will restrict you to campaign.

Will reinstalling fix it permanently?

Not always. A reinstall helps with corrupted files, but if the root cause is server or graphics bugs, you’ll need to use the temporary fixes above until a patch drops.