Windows 10 crashes PC games — Here's how to fix the issue

Acer Nitro 5 (AMD, 2020)
(Image credit: Future)

Microsoft has released a new optional update for Windows 10 that will fix a bug affecting some users when they play games in full-screen mode or tablet mode. It also resolves other annoying performance issues.

The update, KB4598291, fixes a bug that causes crashes when PC games are being played on full-screen mode (so, a lot of the time) or when a device is in tablet mode. This only happened to a few Windows 10 users, so those who aren't affected don't need to bother with the update. 

The patch update also fixes an issue that changes the Alt+Tab feature, causing users to switch to a random window instead of the one they wanted. That's pretty annoying behavior as it defeats the ease and convenience of the shortcut.

Other issues now fixed include a problem that prevented users from opening a document on the Windows desktop, along with a blank lock screen being displayed after a device wakes up from "Hibernate."

As spotted on Windows Latest, the update also fixes an issue that caused users to be automatically signed out of their apps when restarting their system, which meant having to sign back in on all their applications every time. Thankfully, that should now be patched up. 

How to get the optional update

Since the update isn't installed by default, users will need to find the update themselves to fix the issues. This can be done via Windows Update or Windows Update. Just head to Settings, then click on Update & Security and click Windows Update.

From there, navigate to optional updates where you'll find the KB4598291 link to install the update. Hopefully, a few users can finally play in full-screen mode without a worry. What games, you ask? You may want to try some of the best PC games that we're playing right now. 

Darragh Murphy
Editor

Darragh Murphy is fascinated by all things bizarre, which usually leads to assorted coverage varying from washing machines designed for AirPods to the mischievous world of cyberattacks. Whether it's connecting Scar from The Lion King to two-factor authentication or turning his love for gadgets into a fabricated rap battle from 8 Mile, he believes there’s always a quirky spin to be made. With a Master’s degree in Magazine Journalism from The University of Sheffield, along with short stints at Kerrang! and Exposed Magazine, Darragh started his career writing about the tech industry at Time Out Dubai and ShortList Dubai, covering everything from the latest iPhone models and Huawei laptops to massive Esports events in the Middle East. Now, he can be found proudly diving into gaming, gadgets, and letting readers know the joys of docking stations for Laptop Mag.