It's an annoying and common issue that gamers sometimes experience with Game Maker 8.1, namely the 'Game Maker 8.1 Cannot Find Valid Runner Data' error. If you're running into this issue, rest assured that you're not alone -- in this guide we'll provide you with a few steps to resolve this issue.
Understanding the Error
This error usually occurs when the user tries to run the installed version of the program and the system fails to find valid data for the runner of the game. This means that the system is unable to recognize or detect some essential data required to launch the game. Fortunately, this issue is generally quite easy to solve as described below.
Restart Your Computer
The most obvious and easy solution to this problem is to simply restart your computer. It's highly recommended to reboot your computer after installation of any new software or game.
This helps to clear any cached temporary files and flush out any remnant entries from the registry, while also ensuring that all latest changes to the system are properly installed.
Update Drivers
Two of the most common culprits behind the 'Game Maker 8.1 Cannot Find Valid Runner Data' error are outdated or missing device drivers. Drivers are essential components of the operating system and applications, which facilitate the interactions between your system and different devices or peripherals.
For instance, if you're trying to launch a game that requires a joystick or any other type of controller, then it's essential to be sure that the corresponding drivers are installed and updated. It's recommended to check the manufacturer's website for the latest drivers or you can use a reliable driver updater tool.
Perform a Clean Boot
Performing a clean boot can also help resolve the issue by disabling all non-Microsoft applications. This will help narrow down any software conflict issue which might be causing the issue. For that, you need to enter the System Configuration window, set the startup type to 'Selective startup' and clear the check boxes in the 'Load Startup Items' section.
Reinstall the Program
If nothing mentioned above has worked, then you should uninstall and reinstall the game. This might help resolve any conflict issues or incorrect components which may be preventing the game from launching.
FAQ
Q1: How Do I Update Drivers?
A1: It's recommended to check the manufacturer's website for the latest drivers or you can use a reliable driver updater tool.
Q2: How do I perform a clean boot?
A2: For that, you need to enter the System Configuration window, set the startup type to 'Selective startup' and clear the check boxes in the 'Load Startup Items' section.
Q3: What causes this error?
A3: This error usually occurs when the user tries to run the installed version of the program and the system fails to find valid data for the runner of the game.
Q4: How To Fix The 'Game Maker 8.1 Cannot Find Valid Runner Data' Error?
A4: It's generally a good idea to restart your computer, update drivers, perform a clean boot and reinstall the program.
Q5: Is it necessary to uninstall and reinstall the game?
A5: Yes, it's necessary to uninstall and reinstall the game if the above mentioned steps don't work and nothing resolves the issue.