- Home
- Steam
- Errors and problems
- Failed to start game (app already running)
Error codeSteamSteam client on Windows, macOS and Linux
Steam: "Failed to start game (app already running)"
Game already running
Usually the game crashed silently or failed to launch and is still running in the background. It can also be running under another user account on the same computer.
How to fix "Failed to start game (app already running)"
On Windows, open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc), end the game's process and relaunch; on Mac or Linux, restart the computer.
Verify the game's files in Steam.
Opt out of the Steam client beta under Settings > Interface and restart Steam.
Log out of any other user accounts on the computer and restart.
If it still won't launch, contact the game's own support team.
From Steam's help pages: help.steampowered.com, in our words. Checked on 5 November 2026. If the steps do not help, Steam's own support is the next stop.
More Steam errors and common problems
- Steam won't openDamaged install or software getting in the way
- Can't connect to SteamRouter, firewall or internet provider blocking Steam
- Steam Guard code missingEmail delayed, filtered or sent elsewhere
- Cloud won't syncSave files can't reach Steam Cloud
- 53Another program is interfering with Steam
- Steam Servers are currently unavailableSteam servers unavailable
- An error occurred while updatingGame update or install failed
- No Steam content servers are currently configuredNo content servers available
- Failed to Start Game (Missing Executable)Game file missing or blocked
- Secure connection failedCan't connect to a VAC-secured server
- Your purchase has not been completedPurchase failed