Ryujinx is a great Nintendo Switch emulator, but like any emulator, it can sometimes hit a few snags.
Here, I’ll cover the most common issues users encounter on Ryujinx, along with clear, step-by-step troubleshooting tips.
If you’re seeing cryptic errors or crashes, I’ll help you pinpoint the cause so you can get back to gaming smoothly.
To troubleshoot effectively, you’ll want to keep an eye on Ryujinx’s logs.
If you’re not sure where to find them, go to File > Open Logs Folder in the Ryujinx menu.
Open the most recent log file – it’s often the biggest one – for details on any errors that occur.
Can’t Open Ryujinx
Error Message: System.TypeInitializationException: The type initializer for 'Gtk.Application' threw an exception. ---> System.DllNotFoundException: Gtk
Solution:
This usually happens if the emulator’s old GTK UI files are incomplete. Ryujinx’s newer releases have shifted to Avalonia for a better UI experience, so if you’re using an old version, updating to the latest release should fix the problem.
If you’re already on a recent version, try reinstalling Ryujinx. Avoid placing the emulator in protected folders (like the Desktop or root of a drive) and make sure your antivirus software isn’t flagging it.
GLib.GException: Unrecognized image file format
Error Message: GLib.GException: Unrecognized image file format
Solution:
This error is also related to Ryujinx being in a protected folder. Move Ryujinx to a regular directory (such as C:\Users\YourName\Documents\Ryujinx) and avoid storing it in locations like C:\Program Files or the Desktop.
Ryujinx Crashes Without Any Errors or Closes Immediately
Solution:
If Ryujinx closes right after you open it, it’s often because of antivirus software or running it in a protected folder.
Make sure the emulator is in a regular, accessible directory and whitelist Ryujinx in any third-party antivirus program.
Occasionally, certain controllers, like the “defender omega,” can also trigger this issue – try disconnecting them to see if the emulator launches properly.
Crashing When Using Vulkan Graphics API
Error Message: VulkanException: Initialization failed, none of the available GPUs meets the minimum requirements
Solution:
This usually occurs with AMD Ryzen CPUs and Radeon integrated graphics. For best results, update both your dedicated GPU drivers (like Nvidia) and the integrated GPU drivers. Check for the latest drivers directly from the official sites:
If your system doesn’t match these requirements or your drivers are up to date but the error persists, your GPU may not meet the minimum requirements for Vulkan.
Error: Could Not Find Vulkan Library (vulkan-1.dll)
Solution:
This happens if Ryujinx can’t locate a compatible GPU driver for Vulkan. First, make sure your drivers are fully updated.
If the issue remains, your graphics hardware might not support Vulkan, and you may need to switch to the OpenGL graphics API if Vulkan isn’t required for your specific setup.
Ryujinx Crashes After Double-Clicking Any Game
Error Message: Gtk-CRITICAL **: gtk_list_store_get_value: assertion 'iter_is_valid (iter, list_store)' failed
Solution:
This issue is specific to the old GTK UI. If you’re on an older version of Ryujinx, try switching to the Avalonia UI or updating to the latest release.
If you’re stuck on the old UI, select the game by clicking it once, then press Enter instead of double-clicking to start.
Game Files Corrupted or Invalid
Error Message: ResultFsNonRealDataVerificationFailed or ResultFsPartitionSignatureVerificationFailed
Solution:
This error usually points to corrupted game files or updates. To fix this, redump the affected files.
If only the update is corrupted, try removing it and running the game without it.
If the error persists after a clean dump, ensure that the file types are compatible and error-free.
Firmware Too Old for Game Compatibility
Error Message: System update title was not found in the firmware package.
Solution:
This happens when the game needs a newer firmware version than what’s installed.
Make sure your keys are updated alongside the firmware, as older keys may not support the latest firmware. Follow an accurate dumping guide for the best results.
Ryujinx Encountered a Firmware Parsing Error
Error Message: RYU-0003: Firmware parsing error Ryujinx was unable to parse the provided firmware.
Solution:
Updating both the firmware and keys is crucial here, as outdated keys might not work with a new firmware dump. Always keep firmware and keys synced to avoid this parsing issue.
Missing or Invalid Keys
Error Message: Missing NCA title key or Unable to decrypt title key
Solution:
This error means the emulator is missing crucial encryption keys for the game. Redump your keys or update them to match your firmware version. These keys allow Ryujinx to read and load game files correctly, so having the latest versions is essential.
Settings Fail to Open Due to Duplicate Items
Error Message: System.ArgumentException: An item with the same key has already been added.
Solution:
Navigate to C:\Users\YourName\AppData\Roaming\Ryujinx\bis\system\Contents\registered and delete everything in the “registered” folder. Reinstall the firmware and try opening the settings again.
If the error involves PPTC (Profiled Persistent Translation Cache), right-click the game in your list, go to Cache Management, and select Queue PPTC Rebuild.
Game Hangs on Boot, Log Error: |E| Loader LoadNca: No ExeFS found in NCA
- When dumping your game, ensure these options are enabled in nxdumptool:
- “Remove console specific data”
- “Generate ticket-less dump”
- “Change NPDM RSA key/sig in Program NCA”
- These settings help prevent booting issues related to missing ExeFS data.
NSP File Not Displaying on Main Menu or Hanging Emulator with Warning: |W| Loader GetNpdm: NPDM file not found, using default values!
- This error indicates you’re attempting to load an update file rather than the game file. Refer to the Ryujinx setup guide for proper game updates.
Black Screen on Game Startup
- Check Compatibility: Confirm the game is supported and your graphics card meets the necessary requirements.
- Nvidia GPU: Open the Nvidia Control Panel and click Restore to reset to default settings.
- AMD/Intel GPU: Update drivers and try using the Vulkan graphics backend.
- Intel iGPU: Ensure it’s at least a 6th-gen CPU or newer, as older models lack the required support for Ryujinx.
Black Screen with Audio on Nvidia GPUs
- Go to Nvidia Control Panel and reset global settings to their defaults.
Transparent or See-Through Ryujinx Window
- In the Radeon Control Panel, disable sharpening under global graphics settings to prevent this issue.
Emulator Freezing on Game Exit
- Close the console window manually if it doesn’t close automatically. If hidden, terminate Ryujinx in Task Manager. Updates in version 1.1.848 should reduce these occurrences.
Game Crash with VRAM Exhaustion Error
Error message: |E| GUI.RenderThread Application : Unhandled exception caught: Ryujinx.Graphics.Vulkan.VulkanException: Unexpected API error "ErrorOutOfDeviceMemory"
Solution:
- Lower resolution scaling if set high (e.g., 4x), as it’s often unnecessary and VRAM-intensive.
- ASTC Texture Games (e.g., Astral Chain, Fire Emblem Engage): Enable texture recompression in graphics settings if VRAM usage is high.
Device Loss Crash Error in Vulkan
Error message: |E| GUI.RenderLoop Application : Unhandled exception caught: Ryujinx.Graphics.Vulkan.VulkanException: Unexpected API error "ErrorDeviceLost"
Solution:
- Nvidia Users: Downgrade drivers if issues persist past version 527.37.
- AMD/Intel Users: Update to the latest drivers, or consider using Linux with Mesa drivers if issues continue.
Crash with Exception: Ryujinx.HLE.Exceptions.GuestBrokeExecutionException
- This means the game itself crashed. ResultFsPermissionDenied (2002-6400) errors may be fixed by deleting the save folder. Other errors like ResultFsTargetNotFound or ResultKvdbInvalidKeyValue indicate possible save data issues. Backup and delete saves if necessary.
Fatal System Error: System.AccessViolationException
- Causes could include Ryujinx being in a protected folder or blocked by antivirus software. Remove GShade if it’s causing compatibility issues, and uninstall the “OpenCL, OpenGL, and Vulkan Compatibility Pack” if on a Rog Ally.
Invalid Memory Access Errors
- Memory errors often arise from mod or cheat conflicts. Confirm no mods/cheats are conflicting. Disabled cheats still load into memory, so review all active modifications.
Inconsistent Frame Timing
- Disable VSync in Ryujinx, and externally cap the framerate using GPU driver settings or RivaTuner.
Fullscreen Frame Rate Smoothing (G-Sync Issue)
- In the Nvidia control panel, set Vulkan/OpenGL present method to Prefer layered on DXGI Swapchain for GSync support on compatible monitors.
RTSS/MSI Afterburner Not Hooking Ryujinx
- Open Ryujinx settings before launching a game.
Controller Misbehaving or Mapping Keyboard Inputs
- Disable Steam input configurations or close Steam entirely if it interferes with controller settings.
Connection Error in Local Wireless (LDN)
- Ensure Ryujinx is allowed through the firewall. If errors persist, disable P2P in Multiplayer settings.
ldn_mitm Issues with Switch Connection
- Ryujinx and the CFW Switch must share the same network, timezone, and game version. Disable any firewalls or antivirus software potentially blocking the connection.
Corrupted Save File Warning
- Corruption may occur if attempting to load saves from newer game versions on older updates. Update the game if needed, and frequently back up save files to avoid loss from unexpected shutdowns.
GPU Processing Thread Too Slow Warning
Error Message: |W| HLE.OsThread.10 ServiceNv Wait: GPU processing thread is too slow, waiting on CPU.
Explanation: This message often appears during shader compilation and signals that the CPU processing the emulated GPU tasks is slower than needed. This isn’t a GPU issue; rather, your CPU may be slightly below recommended specs.
Solution: If you see this error with shaders already cached, it may indicate a need for a faster CPU for smoother performance.
Shader Translator and Texture Format Warnings
Errors: |W| GPU.MainThread Gpu Log: Shader translator: Shader instruction Votevtg is not implemented and |E| GPU.MainThread Gpu GetInfo: Invalid texture format 0x7FFFF (sRGB: False).
Explanation: These are harmless errors that don’t impact gameplay and can be ignored.
Crashing Due to Audio Configuration
Error Message: |E| HLE.OsThread.6 Application: Unhandled exception caught: System.Reflection.TargetInvocationException… System.ArgumentException: No valid channel configuration found!
Solution: Set the audio backend to SDL2 or OpenAL; using SoundIO may cause this crash under certain conditions.
Ryujinx Fails to Restart After Update
Issue: Ryujinx doesn’t restart upon clicking “Yes” to update.
Solution: If on Windows 11, ensure Windows Console Host is set as the default command line.
Executable Disappeared or Deleted After Updating
Solution: Avoid updating while a game is running or when settings are open, as this can interrupt the update process. If antivirus flags it, make an exception for Ryujinx or switch antivirus software.
Files Missing or Named .ryuold Post-Update
Solution: Re-download Ryujinx from the official site and delete the failed update folder (except for any “portable” folder). Avoid updating while playing or changing settings to prevent this.
Internet Connection Error Code: 2306-0520
Explanation: Ryujinx doesn’t support Nintendo Switch Online, so connecting to NSO will fail.
Solution: For multiplayer with other Ryujinx users, select local play modes or use LDN for LAN-compatible games.
Audio Delay After Extended Playtime
Solution: Press F5 to pause/unpause, or switch the audio backend to OpenAL if on SDL2.
Ryujinx Flagged as Malware by Antivirus
Solution: Uninstall or adjust settings in your antivirus (like Avast or AVG) if they flag Ryujinx as FileRepMalware, as Ryujinx is safe when downloaded from the official source.
Game Freezing or Not Loading After Loading PPTC Caches
Solution: If using AVG, consider removing it or creating an exception for Ryujinx.
Frequent Game Crashes Due to Unhandled Exception
Error: |E| Application: Unhandled exception caught: System.InvalidOperationException… could not map view of backing memory
Solution: For ESET antivirus users, add a HIPS exception for Ryujinx to avoid memory mapping conflicts.
Undefined Instruction Error
Error Message: |E| HLE.GuestThread.22 Application: Unhandled exception caught: Ryujinx.HLE.Exceptions.UndefinedInstructionException
Solution: If the opcode is 0x00000000, delete cache files via Cache Management > PPTC Directory for the affected game.
Low Performance on Linux or Steam Deck
Solution: Launch Ryujinx via Ryujinx.sh instead of the direct executable for optimized performance.
Audio Issues on macOS
Solution: Ensure SDL2 is set as the audio backend. Confirm that your Mac meets the minimum specs for Ryujinx.
Crash on macOS with Guest Kernel Error
Error Message: System.Exception: Unhandled exception from guest kernel with ESR 0x82000086 (InstructionAbortLowerEl)
Solution: Update to the latest macOS version for compatibility.
Touchscreen Not Working Properly
Solution: Disable Docked Mode and Direct Mouse Access to ensure touch functionality works correctly.
LDN Error Codes in Ryujinx Emulator
Ryujinx users may encounter a variety of error codes while playing games using the LDN multiplayer feature. Below is a list of common error codes and their descriptions to help troubleshoot connectivity and gameplay issues.
| Error Code | Description |
|---|---|
| 2203-0016 | WiFi not available. Ensure your internet connection is active and stable. |
| 2203-0022 | WiFi disabled or LDN unavailable. Ensure you’ve downloaded the LDN build of Ryujinx and enabled LDN in settings. |
| 2203-0032 | Invalid state detected. Restart the emulator and try reconnecting. |
| 2203-0048 | Invalid client (node) data. Check for updates or reinstall Ryujinx if necessary. |
| 2203-0064 | Connection failed. Double-check your network settings or try restarting your router. |
| 2203-0065 | Network wasn’t found. Confirm the host’s room details and try reconnecting. |
| 2203-0066 | Connection timed out. Ensure stable internet and retry the connection. |
| 2203-0067 | Not allowed to connect (rejected). Make sure the lobby is open to new connections. |
| 2203-0096 | Invalid argument. Verify network settings and relaunch the game. |
| 2203-0097 | Invalid object. Clear cache and try reconnecting. |
| 2203-0113 | Local game version too low; update your game to match the host’s version. |
| 2203-0114 | Local game version too high; other players need to update their games. |
| 2203-0144 | Lobby is full. Wait for an open slot or create a new room. |
| 2318-0006 / 2618-0006 | Network connection lost; ensure Ryujinx has firewall access, restart your router if needed. |
| 2318-0311 / 2618-0311 | Local game version too low; update your game. |
| 2318-0312 / 2618-0312 | Local game version too high; other players need to update. |
| 2618-0008 | Invalid state. Restart your game or emulator. |
| 2618-0014 | Timeout. Retry connecting. |
| 2618-0302 | Invalid client data. Reinstall Ryujinx if issues persist. |
| 2618-0308 | Generic error. Restart or reinstall Ryujinx if the error continues. |
| 2618-0309 | Network not found. Verify your connection details. |
| 2618-0310 | Network is full. Wait for a slot or join another game. |
| 2618-0313 | WiFi disabled; enable guest internet access in router settings. |
| 2618-0314 | Console fell asleep. Wake up your console and reconnect. |
Game-Specific Errors and Troubleshooting Tips
Certain games on Ryujinx might experience specific issues. Here are solutions for some common problems:
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
- In-game time is wrong: Set your timezone correctly in the system settings.
- Crashing on ARM macOS: Disable the hypervisor in settings.
Astral Chain
- ErrorOutOfDeviceMemory Crashes: Close unused applications to free up memory.
- Game Speed Issues: Right-click the game, go to Cache Management, and queue a PPTC Rebuild.
Bayonetta 3
- Stuck in Chapter 1: Redump your game file from the Switch to ensure it isn’t corrupted.
- Audio Desync in Cutscenes: Unavoidable due to texture decoding and shader compilation. Watch cutscenes externally or toggle VSync for a slight improvement.
FIFA Series
- Invisible Player Indicators: Currently, there is no fix.
Fire Emblem Engage
- Crashes Due to Mods: Avoid certain mods (e.g., battle outfits mod). Use mods cautiously, especially on initial playthroughs.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity
- Poor Performance: Upgrade hardware if possible; this game is very demanding on emulators.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land
- Hangs with “No DoF” Mod: Avoid using the “No DoF” mod.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
- Races Disconnecting: All players should cache shaders and maintain 60fps to avoid desync.
Pokémon Legends Arceus
- Launch Crashes: Ensure alternative memory layout is disabled in settings.
- Controller Issues: Disable the handheld controller setting or player 1 controller if using handheld mode.
Pokémon Scarlet/Violet
- Launch Crashes: Ensure alternative memory layout is off in system settings.
- Gym Challenge Issue: Increase stick deadzone to around 0.15-0.20.
Sonic Frontiers
- Flashing Textures on AMD GPUs: This occurs mainly on AMD GPUs on Windows; there’s no current fix.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
- Netcode Lag: Due to poor netcode, consider using Parsec for a smoother multiplayer experience.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
- 20fps Lock: Apply a 30fps mod if the game struggles to hold 30fps.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
- Graphics Blur: Update your GPU drivers and enable performance-optimizing mods.
For additional assistance, check Ryujinx’s community forums or support channels where solutions to common errors are frequently shared.
I hope this guide has helped you resolve any issues you’re facing with Ryujinx. Emulators can be tricky, but with the right troubleshooting, you can usually get things running smoothly.
If you’re still having trouble or encounter new errors, drop a comment or check out Ryujinx’s official support forums for the latest help and advice.
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