While NFL Madden is one of the popular sports games available, each installment has one thing in common. Sooner or later, players face the Failed to Start Game error while they are trying to get into a match. Whether you play Madden 23 or Madden 24 it’s almost written in stone that you will face this error at least once.
Although there is no permanent fix to this issue, there are a few troubleshooting tips that players will find useful. Of course, the nature of the error and why you are facing it is also in concern. Having said that, let’s check out all available solutions to this issue so you can get back to playing the game.
Madden Failed to Start Game Troubleshooting Tips
Before we go through a list of ways to fix the Failed to Start Game error, it’s best if you check the server status for Madden 23 and Madden 24. If the error is from EA’s side, there is nothing you can currently do. Since the error is from your side, these are the troubleshooting tips that you need.
Restart Madden
Although an obvious troubleshooting that most players would try on their own, restarting your game is the most effective way to fix this issue. Whether you are playing Madden 23 or Madden 24, it won’t make a difference since this works for both. While you are at it, it wouldn’t really hurt you to restart your PC or console either. Once you do so, try getting into a match again and hopefully, you won’t face the error again.
Check Internet Connection
Since the Madden Failed to Start Game issue is connected to your Internet network, the first thing to do is make sure your Internet Connection is working. A speed test works splendidly and will give you an idea if this is the reason of the issue. Along with that, avoid any major download on any of your devices that might use up more Bandwidth to steer clear of connection issues.
Allow NFL Madden (23 or 24) on Windows Defender Firewall
Your Windows Defender Firewall settings might be blocking the game and this might be the cause for the issue. Here’s how you can add it to the Exception list:
- Open the Firewall & Network Protection from your Windows Security.
- Locate and click Allow an app through Firewall.
- Look for the Madden files in the list.
- If you can’t find it, follow these steps –
- Click on Change Settings.
- Click on Add Another App.
- Browse for your Madden Files and then Add the game to the Exception list.
- Once you add the game to the Exception list, it should not have any problem with Windows Defender.
Restart Modem & Router
Your modem and router might have collected a lot of unnecessary cache which might be giving you troubles while playing Madden. Restarting them will help you get a much faster and resolved network connection. Additionally, since modem and routers are running 24/7, they might get overheated on occasions. A simple restart is enough to cool it down and help it function better.
Update GPU Drivers
GPU Drivers are one of the main components of PC gaming and must be kept updated constantly. If your GPU drivers aren’t updated, you will likely face the Failed to Star Game error in Madden. To fix it, simply head to the website of your GPU driver to check and download updates. Nvidia users can click here, and AMD users can follow this link.
Update Microsoft Windows
Make sure that your Windows is updated and that you have not missed any new updates. Since it can lead to different types of errors in Madden, you will have to follow the steps below:
- Click on your Start Menu and then click on Settings.
- In the new window, you need to look for Update and Security.
- Now to update windows, click on the button that says Check For Updates.
- If there are updates pending, the display screen will show you the option to Update Windows.
Although the error won’t go off without a permanent patch, it’s likely that this recurring error won’t be going away no matter which Madden installment you are playing. While players have reported that it usually takes 15 mins for the Failed to Start Game error to fully go away after these troubleshooting tips, if the error is persistent do contact Madden Support. You can get some professional help at the earliest since there could be other underlying issues.
If you found this guide useful, do check out our other Madden guides on our dedicated Madden 23 & Madden 24 sections here at Gamer Tweak.