Are you getting error code 125 on your Windows 10 and 11? Let’s learn how to fix “Failed To Load Xgameruntime.dll” on your Windows systems.
Encountering DLL errors can be highly frustrating, particularly when these issues disrupt your gaming experience on Windows systems.

One common problem is the “Failed to load Xgameruntime.dll” error. You may see messages such as “Untrusted system file (C:\Windows\System32\xgameruntime.dll)” or “Error Code 126”.
Games like Gears of War, Halo Reach, Starfield, and Minecraft can be affected, and even using cracked versions might trigger this error. In this post, we explore the various forms of this error and provide detailed troubleshooting steps to help you get back to playing without interruptions.
What is the “Failed to Load Xgameruntime.dll” Error?
In Windows, Dynamic Link Libraries (DLLs) play a crucial role by allowing different programs to share common functions without duplicating code. Xgameruntime.dll is one such critical file, especially necessary for Microsoft Gaming Services that support numerous games and applications. When this DLL is missing, outdated, or corrupted, you may experience errors such as “Could not find Xgameruntime.dll” or “The proper version of Xgameruntime.dll is not installed”.
Failed to Load DLL from the List 126
The error message “failed to load DLL from the list 126” points to a situation where one or more DLL files are not being loaded correctly. This problem typically occurs during the launch of an application or game and is indicative of deeper issues with system file integrity or compatibility. When you encounter this error, it often relates directly to problems with Xgameruntime.dll and the services that depend on it, impacting your overall system stability.
Failed to Load Xgameruntime.dll Error Code 126
The variant “failed to load xgameruntime.dll error code 126” suggests that the Xgameruntime.dll file is either missing, corrupt, or incompatible with your current system setup. This error code 126 often implies that there is an underlying issue with system files or conflicts caused by software installations, particularly those associated with gaming platforms. Addressing this error requires a multi-faceted approach that targets both the DLL file and the broader system context.
What Causes LoadLibrary Failed with Error 126?
The error “LoadLibrary failed with error 126” is a clear indicator that the system is unable to load a required DLL file. This issue may arise due to several factors.
One common cause is the absence or corruption of the DLL file itself, which might occur due to incomplete installations or accidental deletion. Additionally, outdated system components—including drivers or the Windows operating system—can contribute to compatibility issues that prevent the DLL from loading.
In some cases, problems with game installations or interference from antivirus software might also block the DLL file. Recognizing these causes is essential for determining the appropriate solution.
How to Fix Xgameruntime.dll Error

Update Your Windows Operating System and Drivers
Keeping your Windows operating system fully updated is a critical first step. Microsoft frequently releases updates that enhance system stability and compatibility, which can automatically resolve DLL-related issues.
Detailed instructions for updating Windows are available at the Microsoft Support guide on installing Windows updates. In addition, ensuring that your hardware drivers, particularly graphics drivers, are current can help prevent conflicts that result in errors like Error Code 126.
Verify the Integrity of Game Files to Resolve Missing DLL Issues
If the error occurs while launching a specific game, corrupted or incomplete game files might be to blame.
Platforms like Steam provide an option to verify the integrity of game files. This process checks for any missing or corrupt data and replaces it automatically. By doing so, you ensure that all necessary files, including Xgameruntime.dll, are present and functioning correctly.
Run the Game as an Administrator for Elevated Access
Sometimes, running your game with administrator privileges can bypass restrictions that might otherwise prevent access to critical system files.
To run your game as an administrator, right-click the game’s shortcut or executable, select Properties, and navigate to the Compatibility tab. Here, enabling the Run this program as an administrator option can give the game the necessary permissions to load all required DLL files without interference.
Repair System Files Using SFC and DISM Tools
Corrupted or missing system files can trigger the Xgameruntime.dll error.
The System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) utilities are invaluable for repairing these issues. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and run the command:
sfc /scannow
After SFC completes, execute DISM commands:
Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
These tools scan for and repair corrupted system files, thereby resolving errors related to Xgameruntime.dll. Additional guidance is provided in the SFC tool guide and the DISM Technical Reference.
Reset and Reinstall Microsoft Gaming Services
Microsoft Gaming Services is essential for running games via the Xbox app and Game Pass. If this service malfunctions, it may prevent Xgameruntime.dll from loading.
You can reset the service through Apps & Features in Windows Settings by accessing Gaming Services and selecting Advanced Options, then choosing Repair or Reset. If resetting does not help, consider reinstalling the service using PowerShell. This involves running commands to remove and then reinstall the service from the Microsoft Store, ensuring a fresh installation that might resolve lingering issues.
Whitelist the Game’s Folder in Your Antivirus Software
Antivirus programs can sometimes mistakenly flag legitimate files like Xgameruntime.dll as threats, resulting in access issues.
To mitigate this, add your game’s installation folder to your antivirus software’s exclusion list. This precaution ensures that the file is not blocked, allowing the game to load properly without unnecessary interference.
Perform an In-Place Windows Upgrade to Repair Deep System Issues
When other troubleshooting methods have failed, an in-place upgrade of Windows might be necessary. This process reinstalls the operating system while preserving your personal data and installed applications.
An in-place upgrade can repair deeply rooted system issues that may be causing the Xgameruntime.dll error. To perform an upgrade, download the latest installation media for Windows 10 or 11 from the official Microsoft website and follow the on-screen instructions to upgrade your PC.
Xgameruntime.dll Location: Knowing Where to Look
Understanding where the Xgameruntime.dll file is located is essential for effective troubleshooting. Typically, on a 32-bit Windows system, this file is found in the C:\Windows\System32 folder, while on a 64-bit system it is usually located in C:\Windows\SysWOW64. It is important to note that System32 is the primary location where essential system DLL files reside, and any changes to files in this directory can impact overall system stability.
In addition, some games might include a copy of the DLL within their own folders to ensure compatibility or enforce specific versioning requirements. Therefore, if you are troubleshooting a game-specific issue, it may be useful to check the game’s installation directory as well.
It is also crucial to avoid manually moving or deleting the Xgameruntime.dll file if you encounter an error. Such actions can lead to further system instability. Instead, follow proper troubleshooting steps such as repairing or
Conclusion: Resolving DLL Errors for a Smoother Gaming Experience
The “Failed to Load Xgameruntime.dll” error and its related variants, including Error Code 126 and LoadLibrary failed with error 126, can severely disrupt your gaming experience and overall system performance. Whether the issue stems from missing or corrupted DLL files, outdated system components, or interference by gaming services.
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