Borderlands 2, the wildly popular looter-shooter from Gearbox Software, continues to entertain gamers years after its release. However, some players encounter a frustrating issue: the game runs in 32-bit mode, even on systems capable of handling 64-bit applications. This can lead to performance limitations, reduced stability, and prevent the game from fully utilizing available system resources. Understanding the reasons behind this and exploring potential solutions is crucial for optimizing your Borderlands 2 experience.
Understanding 32-bit Vs. 64-bit Architecture
The terms 32-bit and 64-bit refer to the way a computer’s central processing unit (CPU) processes information. Think of it like the width of a highway lane; a 64-bit lane is wider and can handle more data simultaneously than a 32-bit lane.
A 32-bit processor can only access a limited amount of RAM, typically around 4GB. This is a significant limitation for modern games, which often require more memory to load assets, textures, and handle complex calculations. A 64-bit processor, on the other hand, can address a vastly larger amount of RAM, theoretically up to 17 billion GB (16 exabytes). This increased memory capacity translates to better performance, smoother gameplay, and the ability to handle more complex game environments.
Games compiled for 64-bit systems often benefit from optimized instruction sets and improved memory management, leading to enhanced performance compared to their 32-bit counterparts. Running a game like Borderlands 2 in 32-bit mode on a 64-bit system essentially bottlenecks its potential.
Reasons For Borderlands 2 Running In 32-bit Mode
Several factors can contribute to Borderlands 2 running in 32-bit mode despite having a 64-bit operating system and processor. Let’s explore the most common culprits.
Legacy Installation And Game Files
In some cases, the initial installation of Borderlands 2 might have defaulted to a 32-bit version, particularly if the game was installed on an older operating system and then transferred to a newer 64-bit system. While Steam usually handles the correct version selection, discrepancies can occur during updates or reinstalls.
Similarly, corrupted or outdated game files can sometimes force the game to run in a compatibility mode that defaults to 32-bit. Verifying the integrity of game files through Steam is a good first step in addressing this issue.
Operating System Compatibility Settings
Windows operating systems offer compatibility settings that allow users to run older programs that might not be fully compatible with the latest OS versions. If Borderlands 2 has been inadvertently set to run in compatibility mode for an older version of Windows, it might be forced to use a 32-bit architecture.
Checking and adjusting these compatibility settings can sometimes resolve the issue. Right-clicking on the game’s executable file and selecting “Properties” will allow you to access the Compatibility tab and make the necessary adjustments.
Outdated Or Incompatible Drivers
Outdated or incompatible graphics drivers can also contribute to the problem. Games rely heavily on graphics drivers to communicate with the graphics card and render the game world. If the drivers are not up to date or are not properly configured, it can lead to various issues, including forcing the game to run in 32-bit mode.
Ensuring that you have the latest drivers for your graphics card is crucial for optimal performance. Driver updates are typically available from the manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel).
Missing Or Corrupted DirectX Files
DirectX is a collection of APIs that allows Windows applications, especially games, to interact with the hardware. Missing or corrupted DirectX files can prevent Borderlands 2 from running correctly and potentially force it to use a 32-bit mode.
Reinstalling or updating DirectX can often resolve these issues. The latest version of DirectX can be downloaded from Microsoft’s website.
Incorrect Launch Options
Steam allows users to set launch options for games, which can modify the way the game starts up. In some cases, incorrect launch options might inadvertently force Borderlands 2 to run in 32-bit mode.
Checking and removing any potentially conflicting launch options can help resolve the issue. This can be done through the game’s Properties in Steam.
Conflicting Software Or Background Processes
Certain software or background processes can interfere with Borderlands 2 and prevent it from running correctly. This could include antivirus software, overlays, or other applications that hook into the game.
Temporarily disabling these potentially conflicting programs can help determine if they are the cause of the problem.
Troubleshooting Steps To Force 64-bit Execution
If you suspect that Borderlands 2 is running in 32-bit mode, several troubleshooting steps can be taken to attempt to force 64-bit execution and improve performance.
Verify Game File Integrity On Steam
Steam has a built-in feature that allows you to verify the integrity of game files. This process checks for missing or corrupted files and automatically downloads any necessary replacements.
To verify the game files, right-click on Borderlands 2 in your Steam library, select “Properties,” go to the “Local Files” tab, and click on “Verify integrity of game files.” This process may take some time to complete.
Update Graphics Drivers
As mentioned earlier, outdated graphics drivers can cause various issues. Visit the website of your graphics card manufacturer (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel) and download the latest drivers for your specific card and operating system.
Make sure to completely uninstall the old drivers before installing the new ones. This can be done using a driver uninstaller utility like DDU (Display Driver Uninstaller).
Check Compatibility Settings
Right-click on the Borderlands 2 executable file (usually located in the game’s installation directory) and select “Properties.” Go to the “Compatibility” tab.
Ensure that the “Run this program in compatibility mode for” checkbox is unchecked. If it is checked, uncheck it and click “Apply” and “OK.”
Reinstall DirectX
Download the latest version of DirectX from Microsoft’s website and run the installer. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
A clean installation of DirectX can resolve issues caused by missing or corrupted files.
Remove Launch Options
In Steam, right-click on Borderlands 2, select “Properties,” and go to the “General” tab. Click on “Set Launch Options.”
Remove any launch options that might be forcing the game to run in 32-bit mode. If you are unsure what the launch options do, it is best to remove them all.
Close Background Applications
Close any unnecessary background applications that might be interfering with Borderlands 2. This includes antivirus software, overlays, and other programs that hook into the game.
You can use the Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) to see a list of running processes and close any that are not essential.
Reinstall Borderlands 2
As a last resort, try reinstalling Borderlands 2. This will ensure that you have a clean installation of the game files.
Before reinstalling, make sure to back up your save games so that you don’t lose your progress. The save games are typically located in the “My Documents\My Games\Borderlands 2\SaveData” folder.
Confirming 64-bit Execution
After implementing the troubleshooting steps, it’s important to confirm whether Borderlands 2 is indeed running in 64-bit mode. This can be done through various methods.
Task Manager
Open the Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) while Borderlands 2 is running. Go to the “Details” tab.
Look for the Borderlands 2 process (Borderlands2.exe). If the “Platform” column shows “64-bit,” then the game is running in 64-bit mode. If it shows “32-bit,” then the game is still running in 32-bit mode. Note that the “Platform” column might not be visible by default and requires adding to the view.
Resource Monitor
The Resource Monitor provides a more detailed view of system resource usage. Open it by searching for “Resource Monitor” in the Start menu.
Go to the “CPU” tab and look for the Borderlands 2 process. The “Image” column will indicate whether the process is 32-bit or 64-bit.
Third-Party Monitoring Tools
Several third-party monitoring tools can provide information about running processes, including their architecture. Examples include Process Explorer and Process Hacker.
These tools often offer more detailed information than the Task Manager or Resource Monitor.
Impact Of Running Borderlands 2 In 64-bit Mode
Running Borderlands 2 in 64-bit mode can have a significant positive impact on performance and overall gameplay experience, particularly on systems with ample RAM.
Improved Performance
With access to more RAM, the game can load assets and textures more efficiently, reducing loading times and stuttering.
64-bit applications can also take advantage of optimized instruction sets, leading to faster processing and improved frame rates.
Increased Stability
Running in 64-bit mode can improve the game’s stability, reducing the likelihood of crashes and other issues.
The larger memory address space allows the game to handle more complex calculations and data structures without running out of memory.
Enhanced Visuals
In some cases, running in 64-bit mode can enable access to higher-resolution textures and other visual enhancements.
This can result in a more immersive and visually appealing gaming experience.
Conclusion
While Borderlands 2 running in 32-bit mode can be frustrating, understanding the reasons behind it and implementing the troubleshooting steps outlined above can often resolve the issue. By ensuring that your system is properly configured, that your game files are intact, and that you are using the latest drivers, you can unlock the full potential of Borderlands 2 and enjoy a smoother, more stable, and visually enhanced gaming experience. Remember to always keep your system updated and monitor your game’s performance to ensure optimal gameplay.
Why Is My Borderlands 2 Game Running In 32-bit, Even Though I Have A 64-bit Operating System?
Borderlands 2, by default, often launches in 32-bit mode for compatibility reasons. While you might have a 64-bit operating system, the game’s executable file might be configured to run in 32-bit mode to cater to a wider range of older systems. This doesn’t necessarily indicate a problem with your system, but it can limit the game’s ability to utilize all of your system’s RAM, potentially affecting performance, especially with high texture settings or many concurrent enemies.
The game installer doesn’t always automatically select the 64-bit version, even on compatible systems. This is likely due to the developers prioritizing broad compatibility. Consequently, the 32-bit executable becomes the default, and without manual intervention, the game will remain in that mode, regardless of your system’s capabilities. This can lead to suboptimal performance, particularly with demanding graphical settings.
What Are The Limitations Of Running Borderlands 2 In 32-bit Mode?
The primary limitation of running Borderlands 2 in 32-bit mode is the memory address space. 32-bit applications can only address a maximum of 4GB of RAM, regardless of how much physical RAM your system has installed. This constraint can lead to performance bottlenecks, especially when the game tries to load large textures, particle effects, or other memory-intensive assets.
This limitation often manifests as stuttering, slowdowns, or even crashes when the game exceeds the 4GB memory limit. While the game may appear to run fine initially, performance degradation becomes more noticeable during intense combat sequences or when exploring areas with high detail. Consequently, the overall gaming experience can be significantly compromised.
How Can I Check If Borderlands 2 Is Running In 32-bit Or 64-bit Mode?
The easiest way to determine if Borderlands 2 is running in 32-bit mode is to use the Windows Task Manager. Open the Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) and navigate to the “Details” tab. Locate the Borderlands 2 process (Borderlands2.exe). If the process name includes “*32” after it, the game is running in 32-bit mode.
Alternatively, you can use resource monitoring tools such as Process Explorer (from Sysinternals) to examine the process details. These tools often provide more detailed information about memory usage and other process characteristics, allowing you to confirm whether the application is limited by the 32-bit memory address space. If the memory usage consistently hovers near the 4GB limit, it strongly suggests that the game is running in 32-bit mode.
Is There A 64-bit Version Of Borderlands 2 Available?
Yes, a 64-bit version of Borderlands 2 exists, but it’s not always immediately obvious how to enable it. The availability depends on the platform you purchased the game from (Steam, GOG, etc.). Steam, for example, typically includes both the 32-bit and 64-bit versions of the game, though it defaults to launching the 32-bit version.
The 64-bit version is often located within the game’s installation folder. To access it, you’ll usually need to navigate to the Borderlands 2 installation directory (typically found in your Steam library folder: Steam\steamapps\common\Borderlands 2\Binaries\Win64) and launch the executable directly from there. Ensure that the executable launched is named Borderlands2.exe and that it doesn’t have the “*32” suffix when viewed in the Task Manager.
How Do I Switch Borderlands 2 To Run In 64-bit Mode On Steam?
The simplest method to force Borderlands 2 to launch in 64-bit mode via Steam is to manually launch the 64-bit executable. Navigate to the Borderlands 2 installation directory within your Steam library (Steam\steamapps\common\Borderlands 2\Binaries\Win64) and create a shortcut to the Borderlands2.exe file. Place this shortcut on your desktop or in your Steam library as a non-Steam game.
Alternatively, you can modify the game’s launch options in Steam. Right-click on Borderlands 2 in your Steam library, select “Properties,” and navigate to the “General” tab. Click on “Set Launch Options…” and enter Binaries\Win64\Borderlands2.exe %command%. This command should force Steam to launch the 64-bit version of the game each time you start it through Steam. If this does not work, removing %command% may help.
Will Switching To The 64-bit Version Of Borderlands 2 Improve Performance?
Switching to the 64-bit version of Borderlands 2 can often lead to noticeable performance improvements, especially if you have a system with ample RAM (8GB or more). The 64-bit version allows the game to utilize more memory, reducing the likelihood of stuttering, slowdowns, and crashes related to memory limitations. This is particularly helpful if you’re using high texture settings or playing with multiple players.
However, the performance benefits may not be dramatic in all cases. If your system already meets the minimum requirements for the game and you’re not experiencing significant performance issues, the improvement might be subtle. Additionally, other factors like CPU and GPU performance can also limit the game’s overall performance, so switching to 64-bit mode might not be a complete solution if those components are bottlenecks.
Are There Any Potential Issues Or Compatibility Problems When Using The 64-bit Version Of Borderlands 2?
While the 64-bit version of Borderlands 2 is generally stable, some users have reported compatibility issues with certain mods or older system configurations. Some mods designed specifically for the 32-bit version may not function correctly with the 64-bit version, requiring updates or adjustments by the mod creators. Additionally, older systems with less powerful CPUs or GPUs might not see a significant performance benefit from the 64-bit version and could even experience slight performance regressions.
It’s always a good practice to back up your game files and mod installations before switching to the 64-bit version. If you encounter any issues, you can easily revert back to the 32-bit version. If using mods, check the mod’s documentation or forums for compatibility information. If problems persist, consider temporarily disabling mods to isolate the source of the issue.