Causes of the error
The error "Steam must be running to play this game" can have different causes depending on the situation. Some of the possible causes are:
The game files are corrupted or missing. This can happen due to incomplete or interrupted downloads, disk errors, virus infections, or accidental deletions.
The game is not compatible with the current version of DirectX. The game requires DirectX 11 to run properly, but some older graphics cards or drivers may not support it.
The game is conflicting with other programs or processes that are running in the background. Some programs such as FRAPS, antivirus software, or overlay applications may interfere with the game's performance or functionality.
The game is not authorized by Steam. The game may have been purchased from an unauthorized source, pirated, or modified in some way that violates the Steam terms of service.
Solutions for the error
Depending on the cause of the error, there are different solutions that can be tried to fix it. Here are some of the common solutions that have worked for many players:
Verify the integrity of the game files. This can be done by right-clicking the game in your Steam library and selecting Properties. Then, you can choose to Verify the integrity of the game files and wait a minute for the files to be downloaded again.
Re-install DirectX from the redist sub-directory in the Tomb Raider folder. This can be done by navigating to the folder where you installed the game and finding the redist folder. Then, you can run the DXSETUP.exe file and follow the instructions.
Try running the game at low or normal settings before high, ultra or ultimate. This can be done by launching the game and going to Options > Graphics. Then, you can adjust the settings according to your preference and system specifications.
Turn on (or off) exclusive fullscreen. This can be done by launching the game and going to Options > Graphics. Then, you can toggle the Exclusive Fullscreen option on or off depending on what works better for you.
Turn on (or off) vsync. This can be done by launching the game and going to Options > Graphics. Then, you can toggle the Vsync option on or off depending on what works better for you.
Make sure you're NOT running any programs like FRAPS, antivirus software, or overlay applications that may interfere with the game. You can close these programs from your task manager or system tray before launching the game.
Make sure you've installed all updates & patches for your OS and your graphics card drivers. You can check for updates from your Windows settings or your graphics card manufacturer's website.
If you have an AMD gpu try using AMD Gaming Evolved to configure the game. This can be done by downloading and installing AMD Gaming Evolved from its official website. Then, you can launch it and scan for games. You can then select Tomb Raider and optimize it according to your system.
If you have an Nvidia gpu try using GeForce Experience to confgure the game. This can be done by downloading and installing GeForce Experience from its official website. Then, you can launch it and scan for games. You can then select Tomb Raider and optimize it according to your system.
Try running the game at a lower resolution. This can be done by launching the game and going to Options > Graphics. Then, you can select a lower resolution from the drop-down menu.
If nothing else works, try configuring the game to use DirectX 9 instead of DirectX 11. This can be done by launching the Registry Editor (open the Start screen/Start menu, type regedit and press Enter). Then, you can navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\\Software\\Crystal Dynamics\\Tomb Raider\\Graphics. Double click on the name RenderAPI. Change the RenderAPI value from 0 to 9. Click OK and then close the editor.
Hopefully, one of these solutions will help you fix the error "Steam must be running to play this game" and enjoy Tomb Raider 2013 on your PC. If you have any other questions or suggestions, feel free to leave a comment below.
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