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How to Fix Apex Legends Stuck on Loading Screen

Apex Legends has grown in popularity since its release, and with constant updates and patches, the game continually evolves. However, some Apex Legends players have reported issues related to being stuck on the loading screen, disconnecting from games, and other problems. This comprehensive guide will provide you with various solutions to help fix these issues for PC (Steam and EA/Origin), PlayStation, and Xbox users.

How to Fix Apex Legends Stuck on Loading Screen

Infinite Loading Screen and Disconnect Issues in Apex Legends

Before exploring specific solutions, let's take a closer look at some prevalent loading screen issues and disconnections that Apex Legends players might encounter, as well as the potential causes behind them:

  1. Stuck on initializing/loading screen: Players may find themselves unable to progress past the game's initial loading screen, which can be caused by corrupted game files, connection issues, or even conflicts with USB devices.
  2. Constant disconnections: Players may experience frequent disconnections during gameplay, which could result from an unstable internet connection, issues with the game servers, or software conflicts on the player's device.
  3. Infinite loading after disconnecting: After disconnecting from a game, some players might get trapped in an endless loading loop. This issue can stem from server-side problems, client-side caching issues, or even hardware limitations.
  4. Stuck at character selection or loading map: Some players might find themselves stuck at the character selection screen or while loading a map, possibly due to incomplete game updates, network latency, or game server hiccups.

Understanding the root causes of these issues will help you more effectively address and resolve them. The following sections will provide specific solutions for PC, PlayStation, and Xbox users.

Solutions for PC Users

1. Verify Game Files

Verifying game files can help resolve loading screen issues on PC by identifying and fixing corrupted or missing files. The process for verifying game files differs slightly depending on whether you're using Steam, Origin, or the EA App.

For Steam users:

  1. Open Steam
  2. Go to your Library
  3. Right-click on Apex Legends
  4. Select "Properties"
  5. Navigate to the "Local Files" tab
  6. Click "Verify Integrity of Game Files"

Steam will then scan your game files and fix any issues it finds.

For Origin users:

  1. Open Origin
  2. Go to your Game Library
  3. Right-click on Apex Legends
  4. Select "Repair Game"

Origin will proceed to examine your game files and resolve any detected problems.

For EA App (and Game Pass) users:

  1. Open the EA App
  2. Navigate to your Library
  3. Click on Apex Legends
  4. Click on the gear icon to open "Settings"
  5. Select "Repair"

The EA App will subsequently analyze your game files and rectify any discovered issues.

2. Unplug Unnecessary USB Devices

Some players have reported that unplugging USB devices, such as flash drives or external hard drives, can resolve loading screen issues. Be sure to leave your keyboard and mouse connected.

3. Reinstall the Game

If the problem persists, consider reinstalling Apex Legends. Uninstall the game and then reinstall it from Steam, Origin, or the EA App, depending on which platform you're using.

4. Update Drivers and System Software

Keeping your drivers and system software up to date is crucial for maintaining optimal game performance and avoiding loading screen issues. Here's a more detailed guide on updating various drivers and software components:

Chipset Drivers:

Update your chipset drivers to ensure compatibility and proper functioning of your system's hardware components. The process varies based on your motherboard manufacturer:

  • For Intel users:
    1. Visit the Intel Download Center
    2. Search for your chipset model
    3. Download and install the latest driver
  • For AMD users:
    1. Visit the AMD Drivers and Support page
    2. Select "Chipsets" and choose your motherboard's chipset
    3. Download and install the latest driver

BIOS Updates:

Updating your BIOS can improve system stability and compatibility with hardware components. Exercise caution when updating your BIOS, as an incorrect update can cause system instability or damage. Follow these steps:

  1. Visit your motherboard manufacturer's website
  2. Locate the support page for your specific motherboard model
  3. Download the latest BIOS update file and any required utilities
  4. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for updating the BIOS

Network Drivers:

Outdated network drivers can cause connection issues, leading to loading screen problems. To update your network drivers:

  1. Press "Windows key + X" and select "Device Manager"
  2. Expand the "Network adapters" category
  3. Right-click on your network adapter and select "Update driver"
  4. Choose "Search automatically for updated driver software"

Operating System Updates:

Ensure your operating system is updated with the latest patches and improvements:

  • For Windows 10 users:
    1. Press "Windows key + I" to open Settings
    2. Click on "Update & Security"
    3. Select "Windows Update"
    4. Click "Check for updates"
  • For Windows 11 users:
    1. Press the "Windows" and "I" keys simultaneously to open the Settings application.
    2. Click on "Windows Update" in the left sidebar
    3. Click "Check for updates"

By updating your drivers and system software, you can minimize the likelihood of experiencing loading screen issues and improve your overall gaming experience in Apex Legends.

5. Check the Internet Connection

A stable and fast internet connection is essential for a smooth gaming experience in Apex Legends. Loading screen issues can often be related to network problems. Here are some steps to help you diagnose and resolve potential internet connection issues:

Test your connection speed

Use a reliable speed test tool, such as Speedtest by Ookla, to check your internet connection's download and upload speeds. Make sure your speeds meet the minimum requirements for Apex Legends: at least 512 Kbps download and 384 Kbps upload.

Restart your modem and router

Power cycling your modem and router can resolve temporary connection issues. Unplug both devices from the power source, wait for 30 seconds, and then plug them back in. Allow a few minutes for the devices to reconnect before testing your internet connection again.

Use a wired connection

If you're using a Wi-Fi connection, consider switching to a wired Ethernet connection to reduce latency and potential interference. Wired connections generally provide a more stable and faster connection for gaming.

Check for packet loss

Packet loss can cause loading screen issues and in-game lag. To check for packet loss on Windows:

  1. Press "Windows key + R" to open the Run dialog box
  2. Type "cmd" and press Enter to open the Command Prompt
  3. Enter "ping google.com -n 50" and press Enter
  4. Review the results to see if any packets were lost

If you observe packet loss, contact your internet service provider (ISP) to address the issue.

Change your DNS settings

Switching to a different DNS server can sometimes improve connection stability and speed. Popular alternative DNS servers include Google Public DNS and OpenDNS. To change your DNS settings on Windows:

  1. Press "Windows key + X" and select "Network Connections"
  2. Right-click on your active network connection and select "Properties"
  3. Double-click "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)"
  4. Select "Use the following DNS server addresses" and enter the addresses of your preferred DNS servers

By following these steps, you can optimize your internet connection and potentially resolve loading screen issues in Apex Legends.

Solutions for PlayStation Users

1. Rebuild the Database

Rebuilding the database can resolve issues with loading screens and performance. To do this:

  1. Turn off your PlayStation
  2. Press and hold the power button until you hear two beeps
  3. Connect your controller via USB and press the PS button
  4. Select "Rebuild Database" from the Safe Mode menu

2. Clear Cache

Clearing your PlayStation's cache can also help with loading screen issues. To clear the cache:

  1. Turn off your PlayStation
  2. Unplug the power cord from the back of the console
  3. Wait 30 seconds and then plug the cord back in

Solutions for Xbox Users

1. Clear Cache

Just like with PlayStation users, clearing the cache can resolve loading screen issues for Xbox users. To clear the cache on an Xbox:

  1. Press and hold the power button on the front of the console until it turns off
  2. Unplug the power cable from the back of the console
  3. Wait 30 seconds and then plug the cable back in

2. Reinstall the Game

If clearing the cache doesn't work, try uninstalling and reinstalling Apex Legends.

Conclusion

Apex Legends is an incredibly fun and engaging game, but loading screen issues and other problems can be frustrating. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you should be able to resolve most issues and get back to enjoying the game. Remember that some problems may require the attention of the game developers, so be sure to report issues and stay updated on official patch notes and announcements. Good luck, and happy gaming!

FAQs

Why does Apex Legends get stuck on the loading screen after the latest update?

The loading screen issue in Apex Legends might be caused by various factors, such as server-side problems, outdated drivers, game file corruption, or internet connection issues. To resolve the problem, try updating your drivers, verifying your game files, and checking your internet connection.

Are there any specific solutions for Apex Legends loading screen issues on PlayStation and Xbox?

Console users experiencing loading screen issues in Apex Legends can try clearing their console's cache, checking their internet connection, and reinstalling the game. Additionally, ensure your console's system software is up to date, as this can help resolve compatibility issues.

Can USB devices cause Apex Legends to be stuck on the loading screen?

Some USB devices, particularly USB flash drives, have been reported to cause infinite loading screen issues in Apex Legends. To resolve the problem, try unplugging any unnecessary USB devices from your computer and restarting the game.

Are the Apex Legends loading screen issues related to Steamworks Common Redistributables?

While some users have reported issues with Steamworks Common Redistributables, it's not clear if these issues are directly causing the loading screen problems in Apex Legends. Nevertheless, it's a good idea to keep your Steamworks Common Redistributables up to date by allowing automatic updates in Steam.