Create a clean Java installation in the official Minecraft Launcher. If it reaches the main menu, the previous installation's mods or advanced settings caused the failure; restore them one at a time. If the Launcher itself crashes before Minecraft opens, repair the Windows app or use the Gaming Services Repair Tool. Back up worlds before any reinstall.
Open the official Launcher once and record the complete message. If the Launcher itself closes before Minecraft opens, skip to the Launcher repair step. Continue here when Java Edition closes after you select Play.
2
Create a clean same-version installation
In the Launcher, select Minecraft: Java Edition > Installations > New installation. Name it Clean test, choose the same game version as the failing installation, then select Install and launch it.
3
Use the clean result
If the clean installation reaches the main menu, return to the old installation and remove downloaded mods plus custom JVM or resolution settings. Restore one item at a time and test after each change.
4
Update only supported dependencies
If the clean installation also crashes, install available operating-system updates and the current graphics driver from your PC or GPU manufacturer. Close other active programs, restart Windows, and test the clean installation again.
5
Repair the Launcher when it is the failure
If the Launcher itself crashes or freezes, run the Gaming Services Repair Tool from the Xbox app, or open Windows Settings > Apps > Installed apps > Minecraft Launcher > Advanced options > Repair. Reopen the Launcher after repair.
6
Verify the startup
Launch the same installation twice. Success means Java Edition reaches its main menu without closing. If it still fails, keep the complete message or crash report for Minecraft Support; back up worlds before any reinstall.
If it does not work
If the crash returns after one mod is restored, remove that mod and verify its Minecraft version and loader compatibility on the mod author's release page.
If the report names OutOfMemoryError or you changed -Xmx, use Minecraft Help's memory-allocation procedure instead of guessing a RAM value.
Do not delete .minecraft, temporary folders, or world folders. Reinstall only after backup and only if repair and clean-install testing fail.
ⓘ Sources and verification
Checked against official documentation on . Scope: Windows PC, Minecraft Java Edition.
Source-checked against Minecraft's current clean-installation, crash, Launcher-repair, and memory guidance.
