If your problem sounds like this:

  • My game crashes to the desktop without showing an error code or message.
  • My game freezes completely and I have to close it.
  • My screen goes black when I launch the game.

This guide covers general game crashes where no specific error code or named error message appears.

If your game displays a specific error code or message, search for that error on the Riot Games Support site first, as it may require different troubleshooting steps.

Resolution

Like characters that never stop leveling up, our games are always getting fresh content, shiny visual upgrades, and a sprinkle of special effects magic. Let’s make sure your Mac is ready to keep up.

Try these steps in order. Launch your game after each step to see if the issue is resolved.

  1. Check the minimum system requirements. Make sure your Mac meets the minimum system requirements for the game you're trying to play.
  2. Restart your Mac. Restarting closes temporary processes, frees up system resources, and gives your game a clean slate before launching again.
  3. Update macOS. macOS updates include bug fixes, security updates, graphics updates, and compatibility improvements that may help resolve crashes, freezes, or black screens. Install all available updates, restart your Mac if prompted, then try launching your game again.
  4. Check your administrator access. Your game may run into installation, patching, or file access issues without the correct permissions. Open System Settings > Users & Groups and make sure your account is listed as an Administrator.
  5. Close unnecessary background apps. Clearing up background processes can ensure other programs aren't fighting for the spotlight against your game. Close any unnecessary apps, overlays, recording software, or other programs running in the background, then try launching your game again.
  6. Start your Mac in Safe Mode. Startup software or background services may interfere with your game, and starting your Mac in Safe Mode can help determine if something else running on your Mac is causing the crash.
  7. Lower your video settings. Reducing your video settings lowers the amount of work your Mac needs to do and may help prevent crashes or freezes. As a starting point, try setting your graphics options to their lowest values, then gradually increase them until you find the right balance between performance and quality.
  8. Using a MacBook? Connect it to its power adapter while playing to help maintain consistent performance.
  9. Check your available storage. Low storage space can interfere with temporary files and overall system performance. Open System Settings > General > Storage and free up space if your storage is nearly full.
  10. Reinstall your game.  A clean reinstallation can replace corrupted or missing files that may be causing the crashes.

Still Having Issues?

If you've worked through the steps above and your game is still crashing without an error message, submit a ticket to Player Support and attach your logs so we can take a closer look and help get you back in the fight.