Fix Minecraft “Exit Code: 1” On Windows

Minecraft is one of the most popular choices of games (if not the most) for Windows PC gamers. The game is super interesting and offers an immersive experience that keeps the players hooked. 

However, the experience of a user is ruined due to certain errors. As reported by many users, the Exit Code:1 error is one such issue that players often face while playing Minecraft on Windows. 

It is a nightmare for gaming enthusiasts to see that the title they love the most cannot launch on their PC. If you are also facing the same problem, do not worry we are here to help!

Make sure you read this post thoroughly, as in this one, we bring you the best fixes to Minecraft exit code:1 error on Windows.

What is Exit Code:1 Error in Minecraft for Windows?

The error code refers to the problem encountered while launching the game. The error usually results from a malfunctioning Java runtime configuration on a PC. However, some other factors that may trigger the error are – 

• Outdated Graphics Driver
• Unnecessary Mods
• Manipulated In-Game Settings
• Bugs in the Game Files
• Issues with the Launcher Shortcut

While these factors appear minor, they can cause your game to stop working. Issues like Minecraft being unable to launch, Minecraft not working properly, and Minecraft Error Code 1 is triggered due to these problems. 

Fortunately, there are ways you can resolve all these issues. Check out the next section to understand how. 

Ways to Fix Minecraft Exit Code:1 On Windows

Way#1 – Get Rid of Unnecessary Mods

If you are using mods on your Minecraft account that have gone outdated, you must eliminate them. The easiest way to do so is by deleting the mod files on your PC. Here’s how you do it – 

Step 1 – Press Windows+R to bring up the Run search utility.
Step 2 – Use the command %appdata%\ in the Run search and hit enter.
Step 3 – The above command will open the App data\Roaming folder in Explorer.
Step 4 – From the available folders, open the .Minecraft folder.

Step 5 – Find the mods folder in the Minecraft folder and delete all the unnecessary files. 

This way, you can get rid of the mods. If you cannot identify the outdated ones, you can easily redownload the mods for further development in the game. 

Way #2 – Update Outdated Graphics Drivers

Another reason your game may have issues in launching is the outdated graphics driver on your PC. The GPU is crucial in creating an environment that supports launching games like Minecraft. If the drivers for your graphics card are not updated, you may have to experience errors like the Exit Code:1 on Minecraft. 

To update graphics card drivers, you have multiple options. The most efficient out of all is using Advanced Driver Updater. This dedicated driver updater tool lets you keep the driver updated and ensure it never goes out of date. 

To use the tool, simply download it from the link below. 

To learn more about updating graphics drivers on your PC, check out this detailed guide. 

Way #3 – Repair Minecraft Launcher For Errors

Since the Exit Code:1 error on Minecraft appears when it cannot launch, there are chances that your Minecraft launcher will face issues. Fortunately for you, the launcher can identify errors and fix them on its own. Here’s how – 

Step 1 – Press Windows + I to Open Settings.
Step 2 – In settings, choose the option Apps available in the left panel.

Step 3 – In-App settings, go to installed applications and search for Minecraft Launcher.

Step 4 – Once you have opened the launcher settings, you can find the option to repair the launcher. Click on it to initiate the process.

Step 5 – Once done, a checkmark appears before the Repair option. Try relaunching the game, and it should work. 

Way #4 – Replace the Java Executable Path

This is one of the reasons for the Exit Code:1 issue with Minecraft. The Java Runtime issues are common with intense graphic games. Usually, the game can identify and download the JRE file required. But sometimes, things go out of hand, and you must handle them manually. 

Here’s how you do it – 

Step 1- Open Minecraft Launcher and head to the Jave Edition from the left panel of your opened launcher.

Step 2 – In the Minecraft Java Edition, navigate to the Installations tab to find your latest release.
Step 3 – In the available release, you have a three-dotted button. Click on it and then click edit to expand the options.

Step 4 – In the Edit Window, you can expand available options by clicking More Options.
Step 5 – When you discover more options, you will find the option to browse and add the Java Executable file path.

Step 6 – Click on Browse and navigate to the following path – 

C:\Program Files (x86)\Java\jre1.8.0_361\bin 

Step 7 – Select the file and save the changes by clicking Save in the bottom right corner. 

These steps should help you resolve the Minecraft unable to launch issues and Exit Code:1 error on your Windows PC by rectifying the errors related to Java Runtime. 

Read Also: 12 Best (Free & Paid) Driver Updater Software To Fix Driver Issues on Windows

Way #5 – Add &dash Extension to Minecraft Launcher Path

If your username on the PC has a special character, the launcher will always find it difficult to run the game on the go. To ensure the launcher works fine, you may need to change the launcher path’s extension. Here’s what you need to do – 

Step 1 – Go to the Minecraft Launcher Shortcut and open its properties.
Step 2 – You may find the Shortcut tab on the top in properties. Open it.
Step 3 – In the Shortcut, you will find a field Target that holds the source path.

Step 4 – Go to the end of the existing path and add the following string to it – 

–workDir %ProgramData%.Minecraft

Step 5 – Keep in mind that the string must be added in continuation of the existing path. This means the final output should look something like – 

“C:\Program Files (x86)\Minecraft Launcher\MinecraftLauncher.exe” –workDir %ProgramData%.Minecraft

Step 6 – Click on Save and exit the launcher shortcut properties. 

It’s Time for Minecraft Errors to “EXIT” your PC!

Other than these fixes, you can always try the regular uninstall and reinstall methods to get over with the process. All in all, the Exit Code:1 Minecraft not working properly is an issue that can be easily rectified, provided you know the correct fixes.

All the fixes mentioned above are tried and tested; hence, the ideal way to handle the situation is to try one and check for a resolution. In case you are in a hurry, we recommend you update your graphics driver on priority and then go for the Java Executable replacement, as these two are the most common causes of error.

In the comments, let us know which one did the job for you. That brings us to the end of this post. Thanks for reading. Good Luck!

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