Verify or Reinstall Game Files: What to Try First
Sometimes the problem is not a single mod. The base game files may be missing, corrupted, outdated, or mismatched after an update. Verifying files is usually safer than reinstalling because it checks the install first without wiping everything.
Quick answer
Verify game files first if the game crashes without mods, files were moved or deleted, or the launcher reports a damaged install. Reinstall only after backing up saves and trying verification.
Check the game before replacing the game
Verifying game files asks your launcher to scan the install and replace missing or damaged files. Reinstalling is a bigger step and should usually come after verification does not help.
Signs you may need to verify files
If the game still breaks after mods are disabled, the issue may be with the base game files instead of the mod setup.
Missing game files can happen after manual cleanup, failed installs, antivirus quarantine, or moving folders around.
Steam, Xbox, Epic, or another launcher may detect that the install is damaged or incomplete.
A new update can leave old modded files behind or make parts of the install mismatch the current version.
Best order to try
Verify before you reinstall
Reinstalling can take longer and may remove local files depending on the game, launcher, and folder setup. Verifying is usually the cleaner first step because it tries to repair the install without starting over.
FixMyGame tip
If FixMyGame points to game file corruption, do not delete your whole game immediately. Back up saves and mod folders first, then verify the game files through the launcher before trying a full reinstall.
Related Guides
Safe Repair Preview
Learn why FixMyGame previews safer repairs before changing files.
Mod Conflicts
Rule out mod conflicts before assuming the whole game install is broken.
Missing Dependencies
Check whether the crash is really caused by a missing required mod.
How to Read a Crash Log
Learn how to tell whether the log points to mods or base game files.