1. EVE Online
  2. Technical Support
  3. Game Client

Graphical Issues

To help you resolve graphical, FPS, crashing, black screen, and client start issues, we’ve compiled a list of steps that should address most common issues. Please follow the instructions below.

 

Check for Known Issues

Sometimes, client issues may be part of a broader problem affecting multiple players. Check the following:

Clear the Client Cache

Corrupt or outdated client cache files can cause graphical glitches.

  • Start and log into the game as normal. 
  • Once you are logged in, open the settings menu by pressing the Esc key on your keyboard. 
  • Select the Reset Settings tab. 
  • Click on the Clear button next to Clear All Cache Files.

Verify Game Files

Corrupted game files can also lead to various graphical problems. Verify the integrity of your game files through the EVE Online launcher.

  • Open the EVE Online launcher.
  • Click on the Cogwheel icon in the top right corner.
  • Select Tools / Cache on the left and click Verify Game Files.
    • This will check for any corrupted files and repair them.

Adjust In-Game Graphics Settings

Sometimes, simply tweaking the graphics settings can resolve performance and visual issues.

  • Lower Graphics Quality: Set the overall graphics quality to a lower setting.
    • If the lowest setting shows no issues, you can increase each setting one-by-one until the issue returns, then go back to the last stable setting.
  • Reduce Shadow Quality: Shadows can be demanding on your system, lowering this setting can help.
  • Disable V-Sync: While V-Sync prevents screen tearing, it can sometimes introduce stuttering. Disabling it might improve performance.
  • Adjust Anti-Aliasing: Lowering or disabling anti-aliasing can boost performance.

Update Your Graphics Drivers

Outdated graphics drivers can cause a range of graphical issues. Ensure you have the latest drivers installed for your graphics card.

See the Driver uninstall/re-install directions + DDU Help Center article for further information on drivers.

 

Disable all overclocking

Overclocked hardware can become unstable, whether it was done manually or even if it came pre-overclocked from the manufacturer.

  • Nvidia has a feature called Debug Mode, which will remove any factory overclocking.
    • To turn on Debug Mode, open the Nvidia Control Panel, then go to the Help menu, and check the Debug Mode option. This change will be removed on restart.
  • If you have installed any overclocking software such as MSI Afterburner, please revert any changes that have been made.
  • Make sure to disable any over/under-clocking software that may be automatically enabled in your BIOS, such as:
    • Intel Turbo Boost
    • Intel SpeedStep
    • Ryzen Master
    • AMD Turbo Core
    • AMD Precision Boost
    • AMD Cool'n'Quiet
    • AMD PowerTune
    • Memory XMP Profiles

The BIOS changes above are to the best of our knowledge completely safe, but you are solely responsible for any damages or loss caused by changing these settings from their factory defaults. If you do not feel comfortable making these changes, I suggest you contact a certified PC technician for specialized assistance.

Check for OS updates

  • Ensure that your operating system is up to date, as updates can include important fixes.
    • Windows: Select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, and then select Check for updates. If updates are available, install them.
    • Mac: Open the Apple menu > System Settings, click General in the sidebar (you may need to scroll down), then click Software Update on the right.

Adjust Power Settings

Ensure that your computer’s power settings are configured for optimal performance.

  • Windows: Go to Control Panel > Power Options and select High Performance.
    • If you are using a laptop, ensure that it is plugged in while playing.

Disable Background Applications

Other applications running in the background can interfere with EVE Online’s performance.

  • Close unnecessary applications, especially those that use significant system resources.

Update DirectX and Visual C++ Redistributables

Ensure that your DirectX and Visual C++ Redistributables are up-to-date.

Check for Overheating

Overheating can cause graphical glitches and performance drops.

  • Ensure your computer is well-ventilated and there is no dust buildup on any components.
  • Use software like HWMonitor to monitor your system temperatures, among other things.

Malfunctioning hardware

Malfunctioning components can often cause various graphical issues or crashing.

  • If you suspect your hardware may be malfunctioning, please consult with a certified PC technician.

Contact Support

If the above steps do not resolve your issue, please contact our support team.

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