How to Fix “XboxAppFT.exe – Bad Image” Error?

When trying to launch the Xbox app on Windows, you might run into the “XboxAppFT.exe – Bad Image” error.

This usually happens when the gameplatformservices.dll file—a crucial part of the Xbox app’s functionality—is damaged, missing, or incompatible.

Windows flags this issue with the following message:

“C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\gameplatformservices.dll is either not designed to run on Windows or it contains an error,” along with the error code 0xc0e90002.

The gameplatformservices.dll file is a core component of the Xbox app, and if it’s corrupted, the app won’t be able to interact properly with Windows, preventing it from launching.

This issue often occurs when Windows updates introduce changes that conflict with or alter DLL files. Incomplete installations of the Xbox app or corrupted cache data can also trigger this problem.

Now that you know the potential causes, let’s dive into the solutions.

1. Run SFC and DISM

Running the SFC (System File Checker) and DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) tools can help fix the issue.

The SFC tool scans your system for corrupted files and repairs them, while DISM ensures the integrity of your Windows system image.

Together, they can resolve underlying issues that might be causing the error.

1. Search for Command Prompt in the search box and click Run as Administrator.
   
2. Run the following commands:

   sfc /scannow

   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

   

3. Once the process is complete, restart your PC.

2. Reset Xbox App

Resetting the Xbox app clears all cached data and restores it to its default state.

This removes any corrupted files or settings that might be causing the error.

1. Search for the Xbox app in the Start menu, right-click on it, and select App Settings.
2. Scroll down to the Reset section and click on the Reset button.
3. Once the reset process is complete, relaunch the Xbox app and check if the issue is resolved.

3. Delete Problematic DLL

Deleting the problematic DLL file forces the app to generate a fresh, uncorrupted version the next time it starts.

1. Boot into Safe Mode to ensure no background processes interfere with the file modification.
2. Press CTRL + E to open File Explorer.
3. Navigate to

   C:\Windows\System32\

   

4. Locate the DLL file named gameplatformservices.dll*, right-click on it, and select Rename.
5. Rename the file to gameplatformservices.old.
6. Restart your PC to allow the Xbox app to generate a new, uncorrupted DLL file upon startup.

4. Clean Install Windows

If none of the previous solutions work, a clean installation of Windows may be necessary.

This process removes all existing applications, settings, and files, and installs a fresh version of Windows.

A clean install ensures that any corrupted system files, misconfigured settings, or conflicting software are completely eliminated.

While this is a more drastic step, it can effectively resolve persistent errors caused by deep-rooted system issues.

We have a detailed guide which you can follow to Clean Install your Windows.