← Back to Blog

Troubleshooting Common Issues

February 15, 2024

Introduction

While SteamTools is designed to be user-friendly and reliable, you may occasionally encounter issues. This guide covers the most common problems and their solutions to help you get back on track quickly.

Game Not Appearing in Steam Library

Symptoms

You've added a game using SteamTools, but it doesn't show up in your Steam library.

Solutions

  1. Restart Steam: Close Steam completely and restart it. Steam needs to refresh its library database.
  2. Check Library Filters: Make sure your library view isn't filtered. Go to Steam Settings → Library and check your filters.
  3. Verify AppID: If using AppID method, ensure the AppID is correct. Check the Steam store page URL for the correct ID.
  4. Check Manifest Location: Verify that manifest files are in the correct Steam directory (usually in Steam\userdata\[UserID]\config).
  5. Run as Administrator: Try running SteamTools as administrator to ensure it has proper permissions.

Game Launches but Immediately Crashes

Symptoms

The game appears in your library and launches, but crashes immediately or shows an error.

Solutions

  1. Verify Executable Path: Ensure the game's executable path is correct. The file path may have changed.
  2. Check Compatibility: Right-click the game in Steam → Properties → Compatibility, and try running in compatibility mode.
  3. Update Game: Make sure the game is fully updated if it has its own launcher or updater.
  4. Check Dependencies: Some games require additional software (Visual C++ Redistributables, DirectX, etc.). Install missing dependencies.
  5. Try Direct Launch: Test if the game launches directly from its executable. If it doesn't, the issue is with the game itself, not SteamTools.

SteamTools Won't Start or Crashes

Symptoms

SteamTools fails to launch or crashes when you try to use it.

Solutions

  1. Reinstall SteamTools: Download and install the latest version from the official website.
  2. Check System Requirements: Ensure your system meets the minimum requirements for SteamTools.
  3. Run as Administrator: Right-click SteamTools and select "Run as administrator".
  4. Check Antivirus: Your antivirus software may be blocking SteamTools. Add it to your antivirus exclusions list.
  5. Check Windows Updates: Make sure your Windows is up to date with the latest updates and patches.
  6. View Error Logs: Check Windows Event Viewer for detailed error messages that can help diagnose the issue.

AppID Not Working

Symptoms

You've entered an AppID, but the game doesn't appear or shows incorrect information.

Solutions

  1. Verify AppID: Double-check the AppID. You can find it in the Steam store URL: store.steampowered.com/app/[AppID]
  2. Check if Game Exists: Some AppIDs may be for games that have been removed or never existed. Verify the game exists on Steam.
  3. Try Manifest File Method: If AppID doesn't work, try using the manifest file method instead.
  4. Check Internet Connection: SteamTools needs internet access to fetch game information. Ensure you're connected to the internet.

Custom Artwork Not Showing

Symptoms

You've set custom artwork (icons, covers, etc.), but it doesn't appear in Steam.

Solutions

  1. Clear Steam Cache: Go to Steam → Settings → Downloads → Clear Download Cache.
  2. Check File Format: Ensure artwork files are in supported formats (PNG, JPG) and have correct dimensions.
  3. Verify File Path: Check that the artwork file paths are correct and accessible.
  4. Restart Steam: Close and restart Steam to refresh the library cache.
  5. Use Steam's Built-in Tool: Right-click the game in Steam → Manage → Set Custom Artwork to use Steam's native artwork setting.

Permission Errors

Symptoms

You receive permission or access denied errors when using SteamTools.

Solutions

  1. Run as Administrator: Right-click SteamTools and select "Run as administrator".
  2. Check Folder Permissions: Ensure you have write permissions to the Steam directory and userdata folder.
  3. Close Steam: Make sure Steam is completely closed before running SteamTools.
  4. Disable Antivirus Temporarily: Sometimes antivirus software can block file access. Temporarily disable it to test (remember to re-enable it).

Still Having Issues?

If you've tried all the solutions above and are still experiencing problems, here are additional resources:

  • Check our FAQ page for more answers
  • Review other blog posts for detailed guides on specific features
  • Ensure you're using the latest version of SteamTools
  • Check that Steam itself is up to date

Most issues can be resolved by ensuring you have the latest version of both Steam and SteamTools, and by running SteamTools with administrator privileges.

Download Latest Version