How to Fix bo6 error code 0xc0000005​ [BlackOps 6]

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 (BO6) is here, but some players are hitting a snag: the bo6 error code 0xc0000005​. This BO6 Startup and game launch problems, including crashing, freezing, and failing to launch altogether, are some of the signs of this troublesome issue.

Typically, it appears with the error code 0xc0000005. But there’s no need to be concerned! This guide is aimed at getting you back into the action with minimal technical knowledge required. The solutions offered will be for Windows users.

Understanding the bo6 error code 0xc0000005 Error

What’s the Deal?

This error is specific to the Steam version of BO6. Steam relies on the “bo6 error code 0xc0000005” file to launch and manage the game. When this file, or something interacting with it, goes haywire, the error pops up. The “bo6” part simply identifies the game.

Common Symptoms

• Startup Crashes: BO6 crashes immediately upon launch, often without any other error codes.
• Launch Failure: The game doesn’t even start; the error occurs before loading begins.
• Black Screen: A black screen appears on launch, followed by a crash or freeze.
• Error Message Pop-up: A window displays the “game_steam_ship.exe error bo6” message or similar.
• Error Code 0x00001338: This code often appears during gameplay, leading to a crash.

Potential Culprits

Pinpointing the exact cause can be tricky, but here are some common offenders:

• Software Conflicts: Certain programs, especially input remapping tools like reWASD and SnapKey, can clash with BO6 (and its anti-cheat software).
• Corrupted/Missing Game Files: Crucial game files (e.g., “randgrid.sys” or files in the “Players” folder) might be damaged or missing.
• Outdated/Corrupted Drivers: Graphics drivers that are old or malfunctioning can mess with rendering, causing crashes and errors.
• System File Problems: Issues with system files can disrupt the game’s smooth operation.
• Overprotective Security: Antivirus or firewall software might be mistakenly blocking the game or related processes.
• Conflicting In-Game Options: Sometimes, launch options or intro video settings can cause conflicts.

Troubleshooting Steps: Fixing the bo6 error code 0xc0000005 Error

Solution 1: Remapping Software Removal

This is often the most effective fix.

1. Check Installed Applications: Look for programs designed to remap keyboard/controller inputs (reWASD, SnapKey, etc.).
2. Uninstall: Remove any suspicious programs.
3. Clean Up Residual Data: Delete any remaining folders or files related to the uninstalled software in locations like Program Files, Program Files (x86), AppData, and Documents.
4. Restart: Reboot your computer.
5. Test: Launch BO6 to see if the error persists.

Solution 2: Verify Game File Integrity

Steam can help with this.

1. Open Steam: Launch the Steam application.
2. Library: Go to your game library.
3. BO6 Properties: Right-click on BO6 and select “Properties.”
4. Local Files: Go to the “Local Files” tab.
5. Verify Integrity: Click “Verify integrity of game files…”
6. Wait: Let Steam complete the process.
7. Relaunch: Try running BO6 again.

Solution 3: Find and Copy “randgrid.sys”

If this file is missing, here’s what to do:

1. Open “bootstrapper”: Go to your BO6 installation directory (usually C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\Call of Duty HQ or similar). Find and open the “bootstrapper” text file.
2. Locate Error: Look for a line like “Could not open??[folder path]randgrid.sys.”
3. Find “randgrid.sys”: Locate the “randgrid.sys” file in your BO6 installation folder.
4. Copy: Copy the file.
5. Paste: Go to the folder path mentioned in the error message and paste the file there.
6. Restart: Launch BO6.

Solution 4: Delete the “Players” Folder

This will reset your in-game settings.

1. Open File Explorer: Press Windows Key + E.
2. Documents Folder: Go to your Documents folder (usually C:\Users\[Your Account Name]\Documents or C:\Users\[Your Account Name]\OneDrive\Documents).
3. Locate “Call of Duty” Folder: Find the “Call of Duty” folder.
4. Delete “Players” Folder: Inside, delete the “Players” folder.
5. Restart BO6: The game will recreate the folder.

Solution 5: Adjust Intro Video Settings

1. Find “Players” Folder: Follow steps from Solution 4 to find this folder.
2. Edit Settings Files: Open the s.1.0.cod24.txt file (and optionally the other two similar files) with a text editor.
3. Find Intro Settings: Search (Ctrl + F) for “Interface” and then look for these lines:
   • SkipIntro@1;17649;48403 = false
   • SkipSeasonIntroVideo@0;57752;48403 = false
   • SkipSeasonVideo@0;57752;20945 = true
4. Change to “true”: Change the “false” values in the first two lines to “true.”
5. Save: Save the file.
6. Relaunch: Try playing BO6.

Solution 6: Update Graphics Drivers

1. Identify Graphics Card: Determine your graphics card’s brand and model (e.g., NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070, AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT).
2. Manufacturer’s Website: Go to the NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel website.
3. Download Drivers: Find and download the latest drivers for your card and operating system.
4. Install: Run the installer and follow the instructions.
5. Restart: Reboot your computer.

Solution 7: Run as Administrator

1. Find Executable: Locate the BO6 executable file (bo6.exe or BlackOps6.exe) in the installation folder (or via Steam’s “Browse Local Files” option).
2. Run as Admin: Right-click the executable and select “Run as administrator.”

Solution 8: Disable Antivirus/Firewall (Temporarily)

1. Disable Antivirus: Temporarily disable your antivirus software.
2. Disable Firewall: Temporarily turn off your Windows Firewall (Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall).
3. Test: Launch BO6. If it works, add BO6 as an exception in your antivirus and firewall settings.
4. Important: Remember to re-enable your antivirus and firewall after testing!

Solution 9: DirectX 11 Mode

Steam:

1. Properties: Inside Direct X 11 Mode, Right-click BO6 in your library and select “Properties.”
2. Launch Options: In the “General” tab, find “Launch Options.”
3. Enter Command: Type -dx11 or -d3d11 in the box.

Battle.net:

1. Open Launcher: Open the Battle.net launcher.
2. Game Settings: Select BO6, click “Options,” then “Game Settings.”
3. Command Line Arguments: Check the box next to “Additional command line arguments” and type -dx11 or -d3d11.

Solution 10: Run in Safe Mode

This can help identify conflicting processes. The method varies depending on your OS and launcher. Read: Safe mode for Windows.

Solution 11: Uninstall and Reinstall

1. Uninstall: Uninstall BO6 through Steam or Battle.net.
2. Manual Cleanup: Delete any remaining game files in the installation folder and the “Players” folder.
3. Reinstall: Reinstall BO6.

Additional Solution: Modify RendererWorkerCount

Adjusting this setting in the config files can improve stability, especially for high-core CPUs.

1. Find Config File: Go to Documents/Call of Duty/players/options/3.cod22.cst.
2. Edit: Open the file with Notepad.
3. Change RendererWorkerCount: Search for “Renderer worker count” and set it to half of your CPU’s thread count (e.g., 8 for a 16-thread CPU). 4. Save and Test: Save the file and relaunch the game. Experiment with values between 6 and 16 for optimal performance.

Pro Tip: Disable CPU Power Saving

Power-saving settings in the BIOS can sometimes interfere with BO6. Disabling features like SpeedStep, SSS, CPU C-State, and CPU Dual Tau Boost can help. Access your BIOS (usually by pressing Delete or F2 during startup) and look for CPU configuration or power management settings.

Troubleshooting Specific Error Codes

• 0x00001338: Try reinstalling the Visual C++ Redistributable and related files.
• 0x554a0002: Toggle the low latency mode on and off.

General Tips for Improved Performance

• Graphics Settings: Lowering demanding graphics settings (e.g., texture quality) and capping VRAM usage can improve stability.
• Regular File Checks: Periodically verify the integrity of your game files through Steam.
• System Diagnostics: Monitor your system resources and temperatures to identify potential hardware issues.

Expert Advice

• “Create a system restore point before making significant changes to your system. This allows you to revert to a previous state if something goes wrong.” – Sarah Johnson, IT Specialist
• “If you’re unsure about modifying system files or settings, seek help from someone with more experience or contact the game’s official support.” – David Lee, Tech Support Engineer
• “The bo6 error code 0xc0000005 file is a crucial server file. Errors with this file often indicate deeper system issues. Check your drivers, operating system health, and scan for malware.” – Allen North, PC Gamer

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why does BO6 crash after every match?

A: Try disabling Weather Grid Volumes in the graphics settings.

Q: What’s the fix for bo6 error code 0xc0000005 on an i9-14900K?

A: Underclock your CPU to around 4.8 GHz and disable CPU C-State in the BIOS.

Q: Can high textures cause crashes?

A: Yes. Lower Texture Quality to Normal and cap VRAM usage at 70%.

Q: What if the game crashes without an error message?

A: The troubleshooting steps related to remapping software, file corruption, driver updates, and antivirus/firewall issues still apply.

Q: I’m on console (Xbox or PlayStation). Can I get the bo6 error code 0xc0000005 error?

A: No. This error is specific to the Steam version on PC. Consoles have their own set of errors and solutions.

Q: Will deleting the “Players” folder delete my game progress?

A: You’ll lose in-game settings, but your core game progress (campaign, multiplayer stats) is usually saved separately (often in the cloud). It is always a good idea to back up the folder before deleting it.

Q: Where can I find support for Call of Duty: Black Ops 6?

A: Check the official Activision website, the Blizzard Battle.net site (if applicable), and Steam support pages.

Q: I’ve tried everything, and the game still won’t launch. What now?

A: Contact Activision support directly. They have access to more detailed information and can provide personalized assistance.

Conclusion

The bo6 error code 0xc0000005 can be frustrating, but it’s often fixable. By following the steps in this guide, you should be able to identify the cause and get back to gaming. Remember to keep your system and drivers updated, watch out for interfering software, and don’t hesitate to seek support if needed. Happy gaming!