Fallout 4 Video Hardware Not Identified

Released in 2015, Fallout 4 is the fourth main game of the Fallout series developed by Bethesda. However, while it’s no doubt a successful title, Fallout 4 suffers from quite a few issues across platforms. Regarding the computer version, “your video hardware was not identified” is the error that troubles many PC gamers at the moment.  Read to end if you need an in-depth analysis of Fallout 4 video hardware not identified.

Approaches To The Situation

Once it comes to Fallout 4 video hardware not identified, there’s no cause for alarm. From the look of it, the video hardware error is a persisting problem but it’s not unsolvable. Usually, the cause of the error is that Fallout 4 launcher isn’t equipped to automatically detect GPUs. When you open the fallout4prefs.ini file, it detects the card in the sD3DDevice so even though the game sees the card, the launcher doesn’t.  

  • Step 1: In the beginning, change the graphics quality by running the Fallout 4 Launcher, selecting options and setting graphic quality to High. Do not mess up the process because subsequent changes depend on it.
  • Step 2: Open fallout4prefs.ini and see if the parameters look like the below. If you notice discrepancies, you will have to apply changes accordingly to achieve a 100% match.
    • bBorderless=0
    • bMaximizeWindow=0
    • bTopMostWindow=0
    • bFull Screen=1
    • iSize H=1080
    • iSize W=1920
  • Step 3: Launch the game and see how things turn out. By tweaking the .ini file, you not only circumvent the video hardware error but also force Fallout 4 to launch in fullscreen. 

Note: A couple of players have reported positive results by manually selecting the GPU. That works wonders on computers that have two graphics processing units and the game cannot decide which one to use. To choose the GPU, right-click the game icon, click the “choose graphics processor” and select the unit you like.

A Beginner’s Guide

Scavenge For Loots and Scraps

You are in a post-apocalyptic world where most things have been destroyed so you must search carefully to find essential supplies. Don’t overlook shelves, lockers and cabinets as you might find something valuable inside. Even scraps in this game are helpful because it’s possible to exchange them for items. However, do not pick up dead weights that slow you down.

Balance The Arsenal

In the early part of the game, you likely have ammo of variable types. As a result, if you only use one gun, you need to purchase more ammo from city stores and trading posts at an expensive rate. If you like to save your bottle caps, you should have a collection of weapons that you can switch between. That not only lets you adapt to changing combat conditions but also helps you make the most of your ammo. 

Know When To Use VATS 

VATS (Vault-Tec Assisted Targeting System) usually comes in handy as you dispatch foes in Fallout 4. In use, VATS slows down time while allowing you the chance to hit targets in quick succession. However, it’s wise to reserve VATS for enemies in the distance and take down close-range targets the old fashion way.

Take Advantage Of Stations 

Assuming that you have access to stations and some resources, you could do all sorts of things. For instance, you could upgrade your guns to make them more deadly in combat. Furthermore, if you come across food chemistry stations, you should consider using them to make rations, medical supplies, …

Quick Saves Every Now And Then 

Dangers lurk behind every corner in the post-apocalyptic world of Fallout 4 so it won’t hurt to quick save from time to time. By doing so, even if something catches you off guard, you could keep the loss of progress to a minimum.

Give Companion Some Thought 

This game is way more manageable when you make use of your companion. Your companion can provide suppressing fire, cover you from different angles and kill enemies before they get to you. However, you also need to prioritize your team members, equip them with better weapons and heal them when injured.

Tag Weapons For Modification 

If you want to modify a specific weapon but are unsure of what you need, you can tag it on the workbench. When you pick up things that contain necessary components, they will be highlighted.

What Should I Do If My Logic Gates Malfunction?

For those that have Fallout 4 Contraptions Workshop DLC, logic gates not powering down after being turned off is a common issue. If you have the same issue, you could turn the malfunctioning logic gate on and off again so it stays off. In the case that issue persists, don’t hesitate to replace the gate. 

Is It Normal For My Character To Be Invisible?

If your Fallout 4 character suddenly becomes invincible, exit the game and launch it again. 

How Come I Cannot Complete The Acadian Ideals Quest?

If you have a hard time wrapping up the Acadian Ideals quest, you might have killed an NPC called Brooks. The death of Brooks prevents the completion of the quest. Reload a previous save to where Brooks is alive and avoid killing him at all costs.

What Must Be Done If I Cannot Input Commands?

In the case that the game is unresponsive to your keyboard, mouse, …, unplug and replug your peripherals.

 

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