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big fish games does not work on my surface pro 9

Dale McMillan 20 Reputation points
2025-07-17T14:27:39.9566667+00:00

Screenshot 2025-07-17 101736.png

I run Big Fish games on my Windows 11 desktop with no issues at all. I just purchased a Surface Pro 9 for a extended trip I am taking. I am unable to get the program to work properly or the games to activate. I have performed the following steps and none have worked.

  1. Uninstalled the BigFish Game manager and reinstalled
  2. Tried running as administrator
  3. Added a bypass on the windows firewall
  4. Changed Compatibility to Windows 8 (highest option available)

None of the above worked still getting the error in the screenshot attached when I launch the game manager and the games will not activate.

Any ideas/suggestions will be tried and appreciated.

(I am also attempting to contact Big Fish Games support)

Thank you!

Surface | Surface Pro | Install and update
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Answer accepted by question author

Harold Milan 17,505 Reputation points Independent Advisor
2025-07-17T16:25:52.7633333+00:00

Hi Dale,

Thanks for reaching out to the Microsoft Community.

I'm sorry to hear about the issue you're experiencing. But we're here to help you,

here some step by step to you to follow to fix this issue:

  1. Update the Big Fish Game Manager

Make sure you're using the latest version of the Game Manager. Older versions may not be compatible with Windows 11

  1. Repair the Game Manager

Use the built-in repair tool:

  • Open the Game Manager.
  • Go to Help > Repair Installation 1.
  1. Clear Browser Cache

Some games rely on embedded browser components:

  • Clear cache in Chrome, Firefox, or Edge.
  • Try switching browsers if launching games via web 2.
  1. Check for Missing Permissions

Games may fail to launch if they lack access to system resources:

  • Right-click the Game Manager → Properties → Security tab.
  • Ensure your user account has Full Control2.
  1. Adjust Network Settings in Game Manager
  • Open Game Manager → Options > Advanced tab.
  • Try switching between Default and Alternate Method for network connection 3.
  1. Unblock Game Manager in Antivirus/Firewall

Even with a firewall bypass, antivirus software may still block it:

  • Add these files to your antivirus exceptions list:
  • bfgclient.exe
  • bfgprocess.exe
    • bfggameservices.exe
  1. Check System Requirements

Ensure your Surface Pro 9 meets the minimum requirements:

  • Windows 11
  • At least 2GB RAM
  • Sufficient free disk space4
  1. Verify or Re-download Game Files
  • In Game Manager, right-click the game → Verify/Repair.
  • If that fails, uninstall and re-download the game4.
  1. Disable SmartScreen and Windows Defender Temporarily
  • Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Windows Security > App & Browser Control.
  • Set SmartScreen to Warn or Off.
  • Disable Real-time protection under Virus & Threat Protection 1.

Re-enable these after testing to keep your system secure.

  1. Run System File Checker
  • Open Command Prompt as Admin.
  • Run: 
      sfc /scannow
  • This will fix corrupted system files that may interfere with game launches.

Let me know if this step's helps you and get back on track. Let me know if you need further assistance.

Best regards,

Harold — Community Contributor

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  1. Barb Bowman 80,785 Reputation points MVP Volunteer Moderator
    2025-07-17T16:59:46.3133333+00:00

    See https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/answers/questions/3910069/big-fish-games-issue-with-windows-11-arm-64?page=1#answers - it appears Big Fish Games is still not compatible with ARM processors. Your screenshot did not post. You should reach out to Big Fish Games support and ask them specifically about support for Windows ARM processors.

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