How to Find PC Game Patches

Buying a PC game can be exciting, but keep in mind that companies often ship PC games before they are perfect. However, developers sometimes offer a file that the consumer can download to fix some of the bugs. Many PC games have available patches, and you can use these patches to stop games from crashing, locking up or performing poorly. You can find PC game patches online quickly and easily.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Check the developer's Web site for available PC patches. Look for information on the box or in the instruction manual that came with the game to point you to the developer's Web site.

2. Search gaming sites. Oftentimes, PC gaming Web sites offer downloadable patches for different titles. You may have to look through a few different sites to find the right patch.

3. Use search engines. Although this is riskier, you can search on major search engines by typing the game title followed by "patch." You may have to weed through lots of spam Web sites and other junk to find a legitimate patch.

4. Find out if there is an automatic updater with your game. Many PC games now come with built-in updaters that will ask you if you want to install the latest patch or alert you that there is a new patch available. Be sure this is enabled if it is available.

Tips & Warnings

• Always start with the developer's Web site. This is the safest and often easiest way to find a patch.
• Keep up with the most up-to-date patches. There are usually several patches released for a game, and you do not want to download and install an older patch.
• Do not download patches from file-sharing sites or programs. Patches are a highly susceptible and likely target for viruses. Always research a site thoroughly before you download anything from it.

[rjpfletcher]

on 6/12/2009 Good stuff! Thanks!