Crash fix: Vulkan initialization validation

When the game starts, this happens:
"GPU Driver Error"
"Crash encountered during Vulkan initialization validation"

In my case, this happened because Microsoft decided to install a new app on my Windows 11 computer without my knowledge.

This guide shows you how to remove this app so the game works. From what I can tell, stopping Doom Eternal from running is the only thing it does.

TLDR; the app "OpenCL™, OpenGL®, and Vulkan® Compatibility Pack" is blocking the game from running. Uninstall the app to immediately fix the game.


This solution is taken from a ROG Ally blog post. I don't know what these folks do, but their guide worked for me, so they're great in my book.
ROG Ally Crash Fix[www.rogally.pro]
I found it via Google in this Reddit post.

I have reproduced the steps here with my own screenshots.


In the settings menu, open the Apps tab and open the Installed apps submenu.



In the installed apps submenu, find the app called
"OpenCL™, OpenGL®, and Vulkan® Compatibility Pack".

Uninstall it.



You should immediately be able to launch the game and see that it works now.



If that is not what you see, then... best of luck. Consider sharing with the world if you figure it out.

I should use Linux and never look back.

If you end up regretting fixing your game, if you really miss this error message, you can get it back by opening the Microsoft store and reinstalling the garbage app through there. I won't judge.