Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 is now available on PC, PS4, PS5, and Xbox consoles. However, some players have an issue where COD MW3 is not launching or is stuck on the loading screen. ” If Modern Warfare 3 not launching on Steam, Battle.net, PS4, PS5 or Xbox, you are not alone. Many users report this issue, so let’s walk through some potential fixes.
Why CoD MW3 won’t Launch
Before we dive into solutions, understanding why MW3 wont launch helps troubleshoot the root issue. Here are some of the most common culprits:
- Outdated/Missing Game Files: Like any software, MW3 relies on certain files to run properly. If these get corrupted or go missing, errors occur.
- Graphics Driver Problems: Like a finicky engine, MW3 needs current, working graphics drivers to launch. Outdated or faulty ones lead to crashes.
- Windows Compatibility Issues: Modern Warfare 3 was built for Windows XP/Vista. Running it on newer versions sometimes causes conflicts.
- Firewall/Antivirus Interference: Overprotective security software can often block games from launching or connecting online.
- Steam Integration Failures: On PC, MW3 ties into your Steam account. Connectivity issues with Steam can prevent launch.
- Xbox Live Outages: On Xbox consoles, connectivity with Xbox Live is required for MW3. If Live is down, so is MW3.
So in summary, the call of duty Modern Warfare 3 not launching error usually stems from file corruption, driver problems, OS incompatibilities or connectivity issues. With the probable causes in mind, let’s explore solutions.
How to Fix MW3 not Launching issue
Fix 1: Update Graphics Drivers
One of the most common fixes is updating your graphics drivers. Like oil in a car, these drivers keep everything smoothly rendering. To update, visit the Nvidia or AMD website and download the latest Game Ready GPU drivers.
Check the clean install box to fully replace old driver files during installation. Once updated, restart your PC and launch MW3 again. With fresh, working drivers, Modern Warfare 3 not launching steam or other platforms should be resolved.
Fix 2: Reinstall/Verify Game Files
If drivers don’t fix MW3 not launching, the next step is reinstalling or verifying game files. This restores any missing or corrupted files needed to run.
On Steam:
- Open Steam and find MW3 in your Library
- Right click the game and choose Properties
- Navigate to Local Files tab
- Click Verify Integrity of Game Files
Steam scans and restores any missing or corrupt files. Once complete, launch MW3 again normally.
On Battle.net:
- Open the Battle.net app and click the Options icon for MW3
- Choose Scan and Repair
- Wait for the scan to finish, then launch the game
Battle.net looks through your MW3 install and fixes anything broken or outdated.
On Xbox:
- Go to My Games and Apps
- Press the Menu button for MW3 and choose Manage Game
- Select Uninstall All
- Redownload and reinstall the game from your Library
On PS4:
- Navigate to the Main Menu: Go to your PS4’s main dashboard.
- Locate the Game: Scroll through your games library until you find “Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3.”
- Options Menu: Press the ‘Options’ button on your controller when you have highlighted the game.
- Delete the Game: Select ‘Delete’ from the menu that appears on the right side of the screen.
- Confirm Uninstallation: Confirm that you want to delete the game. The PS4 will uninstall the game from your hard drive.
On PS5:
- Go to the Home Screen: Access the main home screen on your PS5.
- Find the Game: Scroll to the “Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3” icon.
- Access the Options: Press the ‘Options’ button on your DualSense controller to open a menu.
- Select ‘Delete’: From the pop-up menu, choose ‘Delete.’
- Confirm Deletion: Confirm your choice when prompted to delete the game from your console.
This completely reinstalls fresh new game files, resolving any corruption issues.
Fix 3: Adjust Compatibility Settings
If the game still refuses to launch, compatibility settings could resolve MW3 not launching Windows 10 or newer OS issues.
- Navigate to your MW3 install folder (usually in Program Files)
- Right click the game .exe and choose Properties
- Go to the Compatibility tab
- Check Run this program in compatibility mode
- Select Windows 7 from the dropdown menu
- Also check Run as Administrator
- Click Apply and launch the game
These adjust how Modern Warfare 3 interfaces with newer Windows versions. Running as admin and in Windows 7 mode often fixes odd conflicts.
Fix 4: Add Exceptions to Security Software
Overzealous antivirus or firewall software blocking MW3 could be another culprit behind cod MW3 not launching. Adding exclusions prevents them from interfering.
For Antivirus:
- Open your antivirus settings
- Navigate to scan exclusions
- Add the MW3 install folder, game .exe file and Steam folder
- Save changes and restart your PC
For Firewall:
- Go to Windows Firewall settings
- Choose Allow an App/Program through Firewall
- Check the boxes for MW3, Steam, Battle.net and any related .exe’s
- Try launching the game again
whitelisting MW3 and associated files/folders stops AV and firewalls from blocking gameplay.
Fix 5: Reinstall Steam and Sign In
For MW3 not launching steam, connectivity issues with Steam could be the culprit. Fully reinstalling Steam often resolves these problems:
- Uninstall Steam via Add/Remove Programs
- Restart your PC
- Download and install the Steam client again
- Sign into your account
- Restart Steam and try MW3 again
This completely resets Steam, fixing any corrupted files or login issues on the back end preventing MW3 from connecting.
Contact Activision Support
If you’ve tried all other basic fixes with no luck, it’s time to reach out to Activision’s MW3 support team:
- Visit https://support.activision.com and sign in
- Select Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3
- Choose your platform (PC, Xbox, etc)
- Pick I need tech support to open a ticket
Activision reps can further troubleshoot and identify any underlying issues not resolved by common fixes. They may request logs or files to pinpoint the problem.
In rare cases, there may be server-side blocks preventing launch if suspicious activity is detected with your account. But support can review and remove these blocks if set in error.
The Bottom Line – November 8, 2023
With the right troubleshooting steps, Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 should be launching and playable in no time. Stay persistent and don’t hesitate to contact the experts when needed.
