Microsoft links Windows 11 gaming crashes to RGB lighting devices

Microsoft has identified a link between the August 2026 Windows 11 update (KB5121003) and significant gaming issues, including application crashes, freezes, and unexpected system restarts. The problem specifically affects users on Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2.

Investigations indicate the instability is caused by interactions with peripherals or internal components featuring RGB lighting. These devices often install drivers or code components with file names similar to ‘inpoutx64.sys’. When these drivers are present, launching certain titles—such as ARC Raiders, MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls, and The Finals—can trigger ‘EXCEPTION_ACCESS_VIOLATION’ errors or system reboots.

Embark Studios, the developer of ARC Raiders and The Finals, confirmed that the issue is related to changes made to the Windows kernel driver affecting the ‘inpoutx64.sys’ file. While Microsoft works on a permanent fix, Embark Studios has suggested a workaround involving the removal of the problematic file to restore gaming stability.