Fix DirectDraw Error While Playing Legacy Games

Tested and trusted solutions to get back to playing your legacy games

4 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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Key notes

DirectDraw is a crucial part ofDirectX that is used by Windows PCwhen performing graphics-intensive activities. Unfortunately, some users now report a DirectDraw error while playing legacy games on their PCs.

This issue is also affecting artists using high-level software. Fortunately, it is not the most difficult issue to fix and only requires the right information.

What is a DirectDraw error on Windows 10?

The DirectDraw error occurs when the crucial component of DirectX encounters an issue. Below are some of the causes of this error:

How do I fix the DirectDraw error?

1. Enable DirectDraw and Direct3D

The first thing to the if you are encountering the DirectDraw DDERR_UNSUPPORTED error, is to enable DirectDraw and Direct3D. This will eliminate the error message after restarting your PC.

2. Change screen resolution for legacy games

Another potential cause of the DirectDraw error on Windows 10 and 11 is an unreasonably high screen resolution. To fix this, you have to limit the screen resolution your legacy game is using.

3. Update video card driver

Sometimes, the DirectDraw error might be due to issues with your graphics drivers. Hence, you should update them too.

If the Windows updater can not find the latest drivers for you, you can go to the manufacturer’s website to download and install them.

Alternatively, you can save yourself from unnecessary stress using an automatic driver updater likeOutbyte Driver Updater. This top-notch tool scans your PC for outdated, faulty, and missing drivers and restores them to top shape.

With this, you overcome the risk of installing the wrong driver manually, which can lead to big problems.

Outbyte Driver Updater

4. Check if you are using the latest DirectX

If you still can’t get past the DirectDraw error, it might be because you are running an outdated version of DirectX. The solution is to check for Windows updates and install them to get the latest version.

With this, we can conclude this guide on how to fix the DirectDraw error. All you have to do now is to follow the instructions carefully, and things should be back to normal.

If youcan’t install DirectX on Windows 10, check our detailed guide to force the installation through.

Feel to let us know the solution that helped you fix this issue in the comments below.

Fix DirectDraw Error While Playing Legacy Games#

What is a DirectDraw error on Windows 10?#

How do I fix the DirectDraw error?#

1. Enable DirectDraw and Direct3D#

2. Change screen resolution for legacy games#

3. Update video card driver#

Outbyte Driver Updater#

4. Check if you are using the latest DirectX#