Encountering a bug that prevents you from playing your favorite game can be incredibly frustrating. One of the more common issues for League of Legends players is the patcher getting stuck at 33%.
This error is usually caused by a few key issues, such as corrupted game files, a problem with your internet connection, or an issue with file permissions. Fortunately, there are several straightforward steps you can take to quickly get your game patched and back up and running.
Quick Fixes
Most of the time, the fix is a simple one. Try these solutions first:
- Run as Administrator: The most common cause of patching issues is the game client not having the necessary permissions to update files. To fix this, simply right-click the Riot Client or League of Legends shortcut and select “Run as administrator.”
- Use the Repair Tool: The Riot Client has a built-in repair tool that can automatically scan for and fix any corrupted or missing game files. Navigate to your profile settings in the Riot Client, select League of Legends, and use the “Repair” option. This can often resolve issues that are preventing the patch from completing.
- Check Your Internet Connection: A weak or unstable internet connection, especially over Wi-Fi, can cause files to download improperly. A wired connection is always more reliable. Try restarting your modem and router to refresh your connection.
- Restart the Client: Sometimes the patcher’s display freezes, even if the download is continuing in the background. Simply closing and reopening the client can force it to properly display the progress and continue patching.
Advanced Troubleshooting
If the quick fixes don’t work, you may need to dig a little deeper.
- Delete Problematic Folders: For a more targeted approach, you can manually delete certain folders that may be causing the issue. Try deleting the “lol_air_client” folder within your “RADS/projects” directory or the “config” folder in your main game directory. Then, restart the client to force a fresh download of those files.
- Disable Antivirus/Firewall: In some cases, overly aggressive security software can mistakenly block the patcher from making necessary file changes. Temporarily disabling your antivirus or firewall may allow the patch to complete.
- Check Server Status: Before you begin troubleshooting, it’s a good idea to check the official Riot Games server status page or their social media accounts. The issue may be on their end, and you’ll just need to wait for a service alert to be resolved.
If all else fails, you can always reach out to Riot Support and submit a ticket for more personalized assistance.
Written by:
Christian