Introduction
Are you eager to explore feudal Japan in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, only to face a frustrating “AC Shadows DX12 error” that crashes your game? Many PC players have encountered this issue, which disrupts gameplay with error codes like 0x887a0006, 0x887A0005, or 0x80070057.
These errors often stem from graphics-related problems, such as outdated drivers or hardware incompatibilities. Fortunately, several community-tested solutions can help you resolve this issue.
Understanding the AC Shadows DX12 Error
DirectX 12 (DX12) is a Microsoft graphics API that enhances game performance by optimizing hardware communication. Assassin’s Creed Shadows relies on DX12 to deliver its stunning visuals.
However, the “AC Shadows DX12 error” occurs when the game struggles to interact with your graphics card or DirectX runtime. Error codes like 0x887a0006, 0x887A0005, and 0x80070057 signal specific issues in this process.
For instance, 0x887a0006 often points to a graphics driver failure, while 0x80070057 may indicate system configuration problems. Effective troubleshooting requires the ability to recognise these issues.
Several factors contribute to these errors. Outdated or corrupt graphics drivers frequently cause compatibility issues with DX12.
Additionally, some graphics cards may not fully support DX12 features, leading to crashes. Corrupted game files can prevent proper launching, while system settings like overclocking or power modes might destabilize performance.
Conflicts with software, such Discord or Steam overlays, might potentially cause issues. Understanding these causes helps you choose the right solution to fix the “AC Shadows DX12 error” and enjoy uninterrupted gameplay.
Common Causes of the AC Shadows DX12 Error
Before diving into solutions, let’s explore the common causes of the “AC Shadows DX12 error.” First, outdated graphics drivers often fail to support DX12’s advanced features, causing crashes. Second, hardware compatibility issues arise when GPUs lack full DX12 support or are improperly configured.
Third, corrupted game files can disrupt launching or gameplay. Fourth, system settings like overclocked GPUs or suboptimal power modes may trigger instability. Finally, software conflicts, such as overlays from platforms like Steam, Discord, or NVIDIA, can interfere with the game. The secret to fixing the mistake is to approach these problems methodically.
| Cause | Description | Potential Fix |
| Outdated Graphics Drivers | Drivers not supporting DX12 cause compatibility issues. | Update drivers via NVIDIA/AMD websites. |
| Hardware Compatibility | Older GPUs may not fully support DX12 features. | Check GPU compatibility; use DirectX 11. |
| Corrupted Game Files | Damaged files prevent proper game execution. | Verify game files on Steam/Ubisoft Connect. |
| System Configuration Issues | Overclocking or power settings destabilize performance. | Reset GPU clocks; set high-performance mode. |
| Software Conflicts | Overlays (Steam, Discord) interfere with game processes. | Disable all active overlays. |
Solutions to Fix the AC Shadows DX12 Error
Many players have successfully resolved the “AC Shadows DX12 error” using community-tested solutions. Below, we outline the most effective fixes, organized by ease and impact. Try each solution one at a time, testing the game after each attempt to confirm resolution.
These steps address common causes like driver issues, game settings, and system configurations. Let’s explore how to fix the “AC Shadows DX12 error” and restore smooth gameplay.
1. Update Graphics Drivers
Outdated or corrupt graphics drivers are a leading cause of the “AC Shadows DX12 error.” Updating them ensures compatibility with DX12. For NVIDIA users, open the NVIDIA Control Panel, navigate to “System Information,” and check for updates.
Alternatively, use GeForce Experience for automatic updates. For AMD users, access AMD Radeon Software, go to “Settings” > “System” > “Driver Updates,” and install the latest version. You can also download drivers directly from NVIDIA or AMD. Restart your PC after updating and test the game.
2. Disable Frame Generation
Frame Generation uses AI to boost frame rates but can cause the “AC Shadows DX12 error” in some setups. Open Assassin’s Creed Shadows and choose Settings > Graphics to turn it off. Find and disable the “Frame Generation” option.
This lessens the load on your GPU, which may fix problems. Restart the game after deactivating to see if the problem still occurs. This is often reported by gamers as a fast remedy, particularly for error number 0x887a0006. If the problem persists, go on to the next fix.
3. Turn Off Overlays
Overlays from platforms like Steam, Discord, or graphics software can conflict with Assassin’s Creed Shadows, triggering DX12 errors. To turn off the Steam overlay, choose Steam Settings > In-Game and remove the checkmark next to “Enable the Steam Overlay while in-game.”
Go to User Settings > Activity Settings > Game in Discord. Overlay and toggle off “Enable in-game overlay.” For NVIDIA or AMD, disable overlays in their control panels (e.g., NVIDIA Control Panel or AMD Adrenalin). After disabling all overlays, restart your PC and launch the game to test for the “AC Shadows DX12 error.”
4. Run the Game with DirectX 11
Switching to DirectX 11 can bypass DX12-related issues. Navigate to Library > My Games > Assassin’s Creed Shadows > Properties in Ubisoft Connect. Add -dx11 to the startup arguments under the General tab. As a result, the game must utilise DirectX 11 rather than DX12.
Save the changes and launch the game. While this may slightly reduce graphical fidelity, it often resolves the “AC Shadows DX12 error” for players with incompatible hardware. Test the game after applying this setting to confirm the fix.
5. Lower In-Game Graphics Settings
High graphics settings can overload your GPU, causing the “AC Shadows DX12 error.” Launch Assassin’s Creed Shadows and go to Settings > Graphics. Reduce Texture Quality, Shadows, and Anti-Aliasing to medium or low. Disable Ray Tracing if enabled, as it’s particularly demanding.
These adjustments lessen the strain on your system, potentially preventing crashes. After changing settings, restart the game and test for errors. This solution is especially effective for older or less powerful GPUs struggling with the game’s high requirements.
6. Disable GPU Overclocking
Overclocked GPUs can cause instability, leading to DX12 errors. Reset your GPU to default clock speeds using tools like MSI Afterburner or your graphics card’s control panel. For NVIDIA, open NVIDIA Control Panel and set power management to “Prefer maximum performance.”
For AMD, use AMD Adrenalin to reset clock speeds. After resetting, restart your PC and test the game. This solution stabilizes your system, potentially resolving the “AC Shadows DX12 error” for users with overclocked hardware.
7. Verify Game Files
Corrupted game files can trigger the “AC Shadows DX12 error.” On Steam, right-click Assassin’s Creed Shadows in your Library, select Properties > Local Files > Verify Integrity of Game Files. On Ubisoft Connect, go to Manage > Properties > Verify Files.
This process checks and repairs missing or damaged files. After verification, launch the game to see if the error is resolved. This step is crucial for ensuring the game’s core files are intact and functional.
8. Reinstall Supporting Software
Outdated or missing supporting software like DirectX, Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables, or .NET Framework can cause DX12 errors. To check your DirectX version, press Windows + R, type dxdiag, and press Enter.
Download the latest DirectX from Microsoft. For Visual C++ Redistributables, uninstall existing versions via Control Panel (Windows + R, type appwiz.cpl), then download the latest x86 and x64 versions from Microsoft. Install the latest .NET Framework from Microsoft. Restart your PC and test the game.
9. Run as Administrator
Running Assassin’s Creed Shadows and Ubisoft Connect as administrator can resolve permission-related DX12 errors. Right-click the Ubisoft Connect shortcut and Assassin’s Creed Shadows executable (e.g., C:\Program Files (x86)\Ubisoft\Assassin’s Creed Shadows\ACShadows.exe for Ubisoft Connect or C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\Assassin’s Creed Shadows\ACShadows.exe for Steam). Select Properties > Compatibility > Check “Run this program as an administrator.” Click Apply > OK. Launch Ubisoft Connect, then the game, to test for the “AC Shadows DX12 error.”
10. Enable Debug Mode (NVIDIA)
For NVIDIA users, enabling Debug Mode can stabilize GPU performance. Open NVIDIA Control Panel, go to Help > Debug Mode, and enable it. This resets GPU settings to default, reducing potential conflicts. Restart your PC and launch Assassin’s Creed Shadows to check if the “AC Shadows DX12 error” persists. This is particularly useful for users with high-end NVIDIA GPUs experiencing random crashes.
11. Limit GPU Clock Speed (AMD)
For AMD users, limiting GPU clock speed can prevent DX12 errors. Open AMD Adrenalin Software, go to Performance > Tuning, and reduce the Maximum Frequency by 50–100 MHz. Apply the changes, restart your PC, and test the game. This adjustment stabilizes GPU performance, potentially fixing the “AC Shadows DX12 error” for AMD users with overclocked or unstable GPUs.
Official Response and Updates
As of June 3, 2025, Ubisoft has not released a specific patch targeting the “AC Shadows DX12 error.” However, community discussions, such as those on Reddit and Steam, indicate Ubisoft is aware of the issue.
A Ubisoft support representative on Steam noted they would inform their teams, suggesting a patch may be forthcoming. Players should keep Assassin’s Creed Shadows updated via Steam or Ubisoft Connect, as automatic updates may include fixes. Check Ubisoft’s official forums or X for the latest updates.
To ensure your game is updated:
- Steam: Right-click Assassin’s Creed Shadows in Library > Properties > Updates > Select “Always keep this game up to date.”
- Ubisoft Connect: Check for updates in the Library or enable automatic updates in Settings.
Conclusion
The “AC Shadows DX12 error” is a frustrating obstacle for Assassin’s Creed Shadows players, but it’s often fixable with the right approach. Updating graphics drivers, disabling frame generation, and adjusting system settings can resolve most cases. If these don’t work, verifying game files or reinstalling supporting software may help.
Keeping your game updated is crucial, as Ubisoft may release patches to address this issue. Don’t let this error stop your adventure in feudal Japan. Try these solutions, share your experience on community forums, and contact Ubisoft Support if needed. Get back to gaming and enjoy Assassin’s Creed Shadows!
