When something stops working, the cause is usually recent and boring. The checks for how to fix black screen on pc below run from most to least likely, so stop as soon as one helps.

Most advice on this topic assumes you already know half the answer, which is exactly the problem. There is a fast way and a safe way, and they are not the same thing. Anything marked optional really is optional, so skip it without guilt.

The short answer

Verify the files, restart fully, and only then start changing settings — reversing that order is what turns ten minutes into an evening.

Check these first

Treat the numbers as a guideline; your exact result depends on your setup and current version. If it broke right after an update, the update is the suspect until proven otherwise. Most advice on this topic assumes you already know half the answer, which is exactly the problem. Start with the simplest option before touching anything that is hard to reverse.

Most advice on this topic assumes you already know half the answer, which is exactly the problem. Give the first attempt an honest try before deciding the method does not work. One clean run beats five rushed ones, both for results and for your patience.

If it is still broken

The approach below has been checked against the current version rather than a patch from two years ago. Most advice on this topic assumes you already know half the answer, which is exactly the problem. People often blame the game when the actual cause is a setting they changed weeks ago.

  • Restart the machine fully, not just the game.
  • Write down what you changed, so you can undo it if the result gets worse.
  • Check the version you are running before following any step-by-step advice.
  • Back up your save if the game gives you the option.

Fixes that require more patience

The approach below has been checked against the current version rather than a patch from two years ago. Start with the simplest option before touching anything that is hard to reverse. If something here stops matching what you see on screen, the game has probably changed a value in an update. It helps to know why a step exists, because then you can adapt it when your situation differs slightly.

Overlays from other applications cause more of these problems than anything the game does. Give the first attempt an honest try before deciding the method does not work. Check whether the service is down before spending an hour on your own machine.

Mistakes worth avoiding

  • Following a guide written for an older version and assuming nothing moved.
  • Skipping the preparation step because it looks boring, then repeating the hard part four times.
  • Giving up one attempt before the point where it usually clicks.
  • Changing several settings at once, then having no idea which one helped.

Frequently asked questions

Will reinstalling fix it?

Sometimes, but it is slow and it hides the cause. Work through the checks above first; reinstalling is worth trying only after they fail.

Could a mod be causing this?

Very likely, if you have any installed. Disable all of them, confirm the problem is gone, then re-enable in batches.

Do I need any add-ons or third-party tools?

No. Everything described here works with the game as installed, which also means nothing breaks when the next patch lands.

Bookmark this if you expect to look up how to fix black screen on pc again after the next update.