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LS-0013: Game is unable to launch

If you see error code LS-0013 when launching a game, try the steps below. Start by verifying the game files, then continue with other solutions as needed.

Note: If you're seeing this error in Pathfinder: Kingmaker, try reinstalling the Royal Ascension DLC.

1. Verify the game files

Corrupted or missing files can cause this error. Refer to How do I verify game files in the Epic Games Launcher?

2. Clear the Epic Games Launcher cache

A corrupted cache may prevent games from launching. Refer to How do I clear the Launcher cache on PC?

3. Update the operating system

Windows

Refer to the Update Windows (Opens in a new tab) article.

Mac

Refer to the Update macOS on Mac (Opens in a new tab) article.

4. Run the Epic Games Launcher as administrator

  1. Right-click the Epic Games Launcher shortcut.
  2. Select Run as administrator.

5. Disable background applications

Background programs can interfere with game launches. Refer to How do I disable background applications?

6. Add game as exception to your antivirus or firewall

Your firewall or antivirus could be blocking your game from connecting to the internet, based on how it is configured. You can try to add it as an exception to your antivirus and firewall.

  • If you are using Windows Defender, you can use these instructions: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/add-an-exclusion-to-windows-security-811816c0-4dfd-af4a-47e4-c301afe13b26
  • For other antiviruses, please check the manufacturer's website for instructions.

7. Launch both Epic Games Launcher and third-party launcher as administrator

If the game uses another launcher (e.g., Uplay or Rockstar), follow these steps:

  1. Right-click the third-party launcher and select Run as administrator.
  2. Repeat for the Epic Games Launcher.
  3. Open the Epic Games Launcher and go to Library.
  4. Launch the game.

8. Confirm that the game version is playable

Alpha, beta, or press versions may no longer be supported. If unsure, contact the developer’s support team.

9. Disable administrator privileges

In some cases, disabling "Run as Administrator" can improve performance.

For Fortnite

  1. Go to: C:\Program Files\Epic Games\Fortnite\FortniteGame\Binaries\Win64
  2. Right-click each file below and select Properties:
    • FortniteClient-Win64-Shipping.exe
    • FortniteClient-Win64-Shipping_BE.exe
    • FortniteClient-Win64-Shipping_EAC.exe
    • FortniteLauncher.exe
  3. Select the Compatibility tab.
  4. Uncheck Run this program as an administrator.
  5. Click Apply, then OK.
  6. Launch Fortnite.

For Epic Games Launcher

  1. Open File Explorer and go to: C:\Program Files\Epic Games\Launcher\Portal\Binaries\Win32
  2. Right-click EpicGamesLauncher.exe and select Properties.
  3. Click the Compatibility tab.
  4. Uncheck Run this program as an administrator.
  5. Click Apply, then OK.

For the game

  1. Open File Explorer and go to the game's folder (Default: C:\Program Files\Epic Games).
  2. Right-click the game’s executable file and select Properties.
  3. Select the Compatibility tab.
  4. Uncheck Run this program as an administrator.
  5. Click Apply, then OK.
  6. Launch the game again.

10. Flush DNS

DNS is a name lookup service, like a phone book for the internet. Flushing your DNS allows your device to remove outdated entries and get new ones. Refer to How do I flush my DNS on Windows to improve my connection to Epic Games servers?

11. Reinstall the Epic Games Launcher

If the issue continues, reinstall the Launcher. Refer to How do I reinstall the Epic Games Launcher?

12. Manually reinstall the game

  1. Close the Epic Games Launcher.
  2. Go to the installation folder (Default: C:\Program Files\Epic Games).
  3. Delete the folder of the affected game.
  4. Reopen the Epic Games Launcher and reinstall the game.
    1. Optional: Choose a different drive (e.g., install to D: instead of C:).

13. Review your network's Parental Control settings

If you have set up any type of parent control on your WiFi/router, or other type of blacklists, disable them temporarily as these could be blocking Epic Games.