Overwatch 2, a popular free-to-play multiplayer first-person shooter game, continues to evolve with frequent updates and bug fixes from Blizzard Entertainment. However, like any complex game, Overwatch 2 is not immune to bugs and errors. One such issue is the “Stuck on Initializing Update” error, which can be frustrating for players. If you’re experiencing this problem, don’t worry. This comprehensive troubleshooting guide will provide you with various methods to resolve the issue and get back into the game.
Fix Overwatch 2 Stuck on Initializing Update in 2023
The “Stuck on Initializing Update” error in Overwatch 2 can be caused by conflicts with security programs, outdated game versions, corrupted or missing game files, conflicts with the Battle.net tools folder, third-party background tasks, or outdated system software. Follow the methods below to troubleshoot and fix the issue.
Reboot the PC
Start by restarting your PC to eliminate any temporary system glitches or device issues. Restarting the system often resolves the “Stuck on Initializing Update” error for many players.
Restart the Battle.net Desktop App
Force-close the Battle.net desktop app and then restart it. This action will refresh the app’s cache data, potentially resolving any issues related to the Battle.net desktop app.
Run Overwatch 2 as an Administrator
Running Overwatch 2 and the Battle.net client as an administrator can help avoid user account control privilege issues. Follow these steps:
- Right-click on the Overwatch 2 .exe application file.
- Select Properties, then click on the Compatibility tab.
- Check the “Run this program as an administrator” checkbox.
- Click Apply and then OK to save the changes.
- Repeat the same steps for the Battle.net client application.
Check for Overwatch 2 Updates
Outdated game versions can cause various issues, including the “Stuck on Initializing Update” error. Always check for game updates manually by following these steps:
- Launch the Battle.net launcher app.
- Select Overwatch 2 and click on the Settings menu(cogwheel icon).
- Choose “Check for Updates” and wait for the process to complete.
- If an update is available, download and install it.
Verify the Game Files
Missing or corrupted game files can prevent Overwatch 2 from launching or getting into matchmaking sessions. Verify and repair the game files through the launcher by following these steps:
- Launch the Battle.net client.
- Click on Overwatch 2 and then click on the Settings menu(cogwheel icon).
- Select “Scan and Repair”.
- Click on “Begin Scan” and wait for the repair process to complete.
- Afterward, reboot your PC to apply the changes.
Temporarily Disable Security Programs
Disable the real-time protection and firewall settings of your default Windows Defender Firewall or any third-party antivirus program. These programs may block connections or interfere with the game files. Temporarily turning them off can help resolve the issue. Here’s how:
- Open the Start Menu and type “firewall”.
- Select “Windows Defender Firewall” from the search results.
- Click on “Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off” from the left pane.
- Choose the “Turn off Windows Defender Firewall(not recommended)” option for both the Private and Public Network Settings.
- Click OK to save the changes.
- Similarly, turn off the real-time protection in Windows Security settings by following the steps in the Windows Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security menu.
Delete the Battle.net Tools Folder
Outdated, corrupted, or missing Battle.net folders/files can cause issues with the Blizzard application. Deleting the Battle.net tools folder can help resolve these issues. Here’s how:
Close any Blizzard processes.
Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl+Shift+Esc.
Switch to the Processes tab.
Right-click on each Blizzard task and select “End Process”.
Press Win+R to open the Run dialogue box.
Type “C:\ProgramData” and press Enter.
Delete the “Battle.net” folder.
Launch the Battle.net client and try launching the game again.
Close Unnecessary Background Tasks
Background tasks running on your system can consume resources and affect game performance. Closing unnecessary background tasks can help alleviate performance issues. Follow these steps:
Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl+Shift+Esc.
Go to the Processes tab.
Select any third-party tasks consuming higher resources and click “End Task”.
Repeat this step for other unnecessary background tasks.
Update the Windows Software
Outdated versions of Windows can cause various system performance issues and game launch problems. Ensure that your Windows software is up to date by following these steps:
Press Win+I to open Windows Settings.
Click on “Update & Security”.
Select “Check for updates” under Windows Update.
If a feature update is available, choose “Download and Install”.
Wait for the update process to complete.
Restart your computer to apply the software update.
Conclusion
The “Stuck on Initializing Update” error in Overwatch 2 can be frustrating, but with the troubleshooting methods outlined in this guide, you can resolve the issue and get back to enjoying the game. Try these methods one by one until the problem is fixed. If you have any further queries, feel free to leave a comment below.
Experiencing difficulties with your Device, check out our “How To” page on how to resolve some of these issues.
