Microsoft has identified a potential cause of ongoing Windows gaming issues, which may be linked to peripherals with RGB lighting. The problems, which include games crashing or failing to launch, were first reported after the installation of the August 2026 Windows updates.
Investigation and Findings
According to Microsoft, the issues affect games such as ARC Raiders, MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls, and The Finals on systems running Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2. The company has been investigating the matter since Wednesday and has provided updates on the Windows release health dashboard.
On impacted PCs, users are experiencing gaming freezes, EXCEPTION_ACCESS_VIOLATION errors, and even unexpected system restarts. Microsoft's investigation suggests that the gaming issues may be caused by drivers or components installed by RGB devices on affected Windows systems.
Role of RGB Devices
The issue is believed to be related to peripherals or internal device components that have RGB lighting features. Such devices may install drivers or code components with file names similar to inpoutx64. When these drivers are present, the issue is triggered by launching certain games.
Microsoft is working to understand the relationship between these RGB components and the games that trigger the issue. The company will provide an update when more information is available.
Unofficial Workaround
Embark Studios, the developer behind ARC Raiders and The Finals, has shared an unofficial workaround for the issue. According to the studio, the problems are caused by the inpoutx64.sys file, which was changed with the Windows update.
The temporary workaround involves deleting the service and removing the inpoutx64 file from the Windows drivers folder. However, this is not an official fix, and users should wait for Microsoft to release a proper solution.
History of Gaming Issues
This is not the first time Microsoft has addressed gaming performance and stability issues caused by Windows updates. In the past, the company has blocked Windows upgrades that caused problems with certain games and has fixed bugs that were breaking some games on Windows 11 devices.
For example, in October 2024, Microsoft blocked Windows 24H2 upgrades that caused Asphalt 8 crashes and Easy Anti-Cheat blue screens. In January 2025, the company lifted a compatibility hold after fixing a bug in the Auto HDR Windows feature that was breaking some games on Windows 11 24H2 devices.
Microsoft has also removed several upgrade blocks that were preventing certain games from working properly on the latest Windows version. The company's efforts to address gaming issues demonstrate its commitment to providing a stable and enjoyable gaming experience for Windows users.
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Microsoft's investigation into the Windows gaming issues caused by RGB lighting devices is ongoing, and the company will provide updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, users can try the unofficial workaround provided by Embark Studios or wait for an official fix from Microsoft.
Source: BleepingComputer