How to Fix Fatal Error in Dakar Desert Rally?

Experiencing a fatal error in Dakar Desert Rally often occurs under specific conditions, such as during the intro with a truck or when crossing the finish line, leading to an unexpected game crash. This error typically results in a sudden crash to the desktop at predictable moments, especially after updating graphics drivers or during particular events within the game.

The root cause of this error can be varied, but it is commonly linked to compatibility issues with hardware or software configurations, such as outdated graphics drivers or conflicts with accessories like gaming wheels.

The developer suggests several steps for troubleshooting, including checking the integrity of game files, updating drivers, and tweaking graphics settings. The community often advises altering the game’s graphics settings using external software like GeForce Experience; however, this can significantly impact the visual quality.

1. Preliminary Fixes

• Update Drivers: The issue may stem from outdated drivers. Update your drivers to the latest version and see if it resolves the problem. You can follow our guide on how to update drivers.
• Disable Antivirus: Antivirus software could be preventing the game or engine from operating correctly. Disable it and check if that fixes the issue. Learn how to disable antivirus here.
• Reinstall Direct X: Corrupted Direct X files can interfere with game performance and lead to errors. It is advisable to reinstall Direct X.
• Remove Extra Hardware: Peripherals, like steering wheels used in racing games, may have software glitches or corrupted drivers that cause this issue. Try disconnecting the device to see if the problem persists.
• Update Windows: The problem could be due to an outdated Windows version. Check for updates and upgrade your system to the latest version. Find out how to update Windows here.

2. Run the Game as Administrator

The game or its engine might lack the necessary permissions to access system resources and files. Running the game as an administrator grants it all the necessary permissions and might resolve the issue.

1. Open the Steam library.
   
2. Locate Dakar Desert Rally, right-click on it, and select ‘Properties’.
   
3. Navigate to the Local Files tab and click on Browse game files.
   
4. In the game’s folder, find dakar2.exe, right-click on it, and select ‘Properties’.
   
5. Switch to the Compatibility tab and check the box for Run as administrator.
6. Click on Apply and then OK.
   
7. Start the game.

3. Verify Integrity of Game Files

Corrupted or damaged game files are a common cause of issues. This can result from disk corruption or an incomplete installation. Verify the integrity of your game files to repair any detected corruptions.

For Steam:

1. Open the Steam client and click on the Library tab.
   
2. Find Dakar Desert Rally in your library and right-click on it.
3. Select ‘Properties’.
   
4. Go to the ‘Local Files’ tab and click on ‘Verify Integrity of Game Files’.
   
5. After the process completes, restart your PC and launch the game to check if it’s working correctly.

For Epic:

1. Open the Epic Games Launcher and click on Library.
2. Find Dakar Desert Rally and click on the three dots.
   
3. Choose Manage.
   
4. Click on Verify.
   

4. Lower Graphics Settings

If your PC does not meet the requirements for high graphics settings, this may cause issues. Lowering your settings can optimize PC resources and might fix the issue.

1. Launch Dakar Desert Rally and go to the main menu.
2. Select Settings > Graphics.
3. Adjust all settings to the lowest options available.
   
4. Apply the new settings and restart the game.

5. Disable Overlays

In-game overlays can cause performance issues when running in the background and may lead to game crashes. Try disabling in-game overlays to see if this resolves the issue.
For Steam:

1. Open Steam and navigate to Settings.
   
2. Locate the In-game tab and uncheck the in-game overlay option.
   

For Discord:

1. Enter Discord settings.

2. Select Game Overlay and turn off In-Game Overlay.

For Nvidia:

1. Right-click the Nvidia GeForce icon in the task tray and open it.
2. Access Settings.
3. Disable the in-game overlay.