Windows 11 KB5121003 Makes Some Games Crash & Freeze, Microsoft Investigating

Following multiple reports claiming that the latest Windows 11 Patch Tuesday update, KB5121003, is leaving certain games unresponsive, Microsoft has officially opened investigation into the matter. Apparently, users have reported games freezing, closing unexpectedly, crashing, or even restarting affected PCs.

Windows 11 August 2026 Patch linked to several game-related issues

In the Windows Update Release Health portal, Microsoft has confirmed that the investigation has been opened on August 19, following reports after Windows updates released on August 11. The issue affects Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2. Microsoft specifically lists OS Build 26100.9168 and KB5121003 as the originating update.

Reported problems vary between games. Some players see games become completely unresponsive, while others experience sudden crashes. Microsoft also says affected systems can display the “EXCEPTION_ACCESS_VIOLATION” error. In some cases, the entire device reportedly restarts without warning.

The company currently lists ARC Raiders, MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls, and The Finals among the affected games. Microsoft has not confirmed that its update is responsible yet. The company says it is still investigating whether the problem is caused by Windows.

Microsoft is asking affected users to submit reports through the Feedback Hub. The company says this information will help with its ongoing investigation. There is currently no confirmed workaround or permanent fix listed in the advisory. Microsoft also has not announced a safeguard hold for the affected updates. That means players should be careful about assuming the issue has one universal solution. The symptoms can vary between games and systems.