3 Ways to Fix “Steam Must be Running to Play This Game” Error

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Basic Fixes:

Fix 1: Ensure You’ve Purchased the Game

This error mostly occurs when running the Steam games without purchasing them. If you fall into this category, you will fix the problem by purchasing the game.

After purchase, launch it, and if the error persists, move to other solutions.

Fix 2: Add Game Folder to Exclusion List

Your antivirus or firewall may have quarantined some of the game’s DLL files, preventing the game from running. To fix this, add the game files to your exclusion list. Follow the steps below.

Step 1:Press theWindowskey > typesecurity> clickWindows Security.

Step 2:ClickVirus & Threat Protection.

Step 3:Under Virus & Threat Protection service, click onManage settings.

Step 4:Scroll down and selectAdd or remove exclusionsunder the Exclusions category.

Step 5:Click theAdd an Exclusionbutton, select thefolderoption, navigate to thepathof the game folder, anddouble-clickit to add it.

Note that these steps may differ if you use a third-party antivirus or firewall.

Fix 3: Verify the Integrity of the Problematic Game

This error can appear if important files are missing from the game you are trying to launch. Fortunately, you can use Steam’s Verify integrity of game file feature to download the missing files. Here’s how to do that for your game:

Step 1:Open theSteam client> go toLibrary.

Step 2:Right-click on thegamethat throws the error > chooseProperties.

Step 3:ChooseLocal Filesfrom the left sidebar.

Step 4:ClickVerify integrity of game filesoption on the right pane.

The Steam client will now start scanning the game files and compare them with the ones present on its servers. After that, it’ll automatically download the missing game files.

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Last updated on 25 July, 2024

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