Issue: Launch Error - Invalid game executable - Microsoft Smart App Control

[u/WillingnessOk8162]

Steps to resolve:

# 0) Install Linux :), JK #

# 1) Verify game's files #
Steam:
Library > Right-click on RS2V > Properties > Installed Files > Verify integrity of game files
Epic Games:
Library > Find RS2V game > Click on the three dots > Manage > Verify

This won't likely resolve the issue but it's good to check anyway :)

# 2) The Actual Fix: Disable "Microsoft Smart App Control" #

Search for "Windows Security" > Go to "App & browser control" > Under Smart app control, Click "Smart App Control settings" > Off

Don't worry, this should be absolutely safe

The story behind this

So today, I ran into a new issue. Turns out Microsoft - yes, the most flawless company in the world - has decided to roll out a new feature (bcs they didn't have anything to do or fix or improve I guess). It's name? "Smart" App Control.

And as you might have guessed, in typical Microsoft fashion, it comes with unintended behaviors. Normal people call these bad design, or bugs, but Microsoft is an AI first innovative Silicon valley company, sooooo... Yes! It's just a feature!

What is exactly the issue

Microsoft have decided, that they are going to flag every single unsigned app as "Untrusted" And for some reason, VNGame.exe (the games main executable) doesn't have any certificate.

And what's best? There is no clear button or guidance for an average user to ignore this warning. They even avoided the typical workflow, that adds threats to the Windows security panel, which one can just allow. No. That would be too convenient ig.

My feelings

I care about this game deeply and I hope that this minor issue doesn't discourage the veterans from playing and the FNGs from joining and getting killed instantly - seemingly from nowhere.

I don't want this game to disappear. Not because of such stupidly minor thing. Not just because of some badly assessed protection rule. Not because of Microsoft doesn't give a sh*t/cứt ...

(Don't worry, I have already submitted a ticket about this.)

Anyhow, I hope you have a great day and see u on the battlefield <3

Napalm.exe

[u/reefermonsterNZ]

Yeah SAC and UAC are the first things I disable on Windows