How to Fix Xbox Error Code 0x87e50031 When Starting a Game

Encountering an error code when you’re ready to dive into your favorite Xbox game can be frustrating, especially if you have no idea what the code means or how to fix it. One of the common issues Xbox users face is error code 0x87e50031, which typically occurs when attempting to start a game or application on the console. This error can prevent you from launching your game and leave you wondering what went wrong.

Fortunately, there are several ways to troubleshoot and resolve the Xbox error code 0x87e50031, and I’ll guide you through the possible solutions in this blog post. By the end of this guide, you should be able to fix the error and get back to gaming in no time.

What is Xbox Error Code 0x87e50031?

The Xbox error code 0x87e50031 usually indicates an issue with the game’s launch process. While it can be triggered by various factors, the most common causes include:

1. Game Update Issues: A pending update for the game or the console might cause a conflict when trying to launch the game.

2. Corrupted Game Files: Sometimes, a game’s installation files become corrupted, leading to launch errors.

3. Server Issues: The error can occur if Xbox Live servers are experiencing downtime or other connectivity issues.

4. Network Problems: Internet connectivity issues can prevent the game from properly connecting to Xbox servers.

5. Console System Glitch: The Xbox system software might occasionally have minor glitches that interfere with the game startup process.

6. Cached Data Problems: Corrupted or excessive cache data on your Xbox can cause issues when launching games.

Now that we understand the potential causes, let’s examine the solutions to fix Xbox error code 0x87e50031.

Also read: How to Fix Xbox One Error 0x800704cf with Little Stress

How to Fix Xbox Error Code 0x87e50031

Here are several troubleshooting steps you can follow to resolve this error:

Restart Your Xbox Console

The first and simplest solution is to restart your Xbox. A quick restart can clear any temporary glitches in the system and refresh connections to Xbox Live services.

• Step 1: Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the Guide menu.
• Step 2: Scroll down to the Profile & system tab.
• Step 3: Select Restart console, then choose Restart.

After the console reboots, try launching the game again to see if the error persists.

Check Xbox Live Service Status

Sometimes, the error code 0x87e50031 is caused by server-side issues with Xbox Live. If Xbox Live servers are down or undergoing maintenance, it can prevent you from launching games. To check the status of Xbox Live services:

• Step 1: Visit the official [Xbox Live Status page](https://support.xbox.com/xbox-live-status).
• Step 2: Look for any issues under Games & Apps or Account & Profile.

If Xbox Live services are experiencing outages or disruptions, you will need to wait for Microsoft to resolve the issue.

Update Your Xbox Console

Sometimes, a pending system update can cause errors when trying to start games. Make sure your Xbox console is up to date:

• Step 1: Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the Guide menu.
• Step 2: Navigate to Profile & system > Settings > System.
• Step 3: Select Updates & downloads.
• Step 4: If an update is available, select Update console and follow the prompts to install it.

Once the update is complete, try launching the game again.

Check for Game Updates

In addition to updating your console, make sure the game you’re trying to launch is fully updated. Sometimes, game developers release patches that fix bugs or improve performance, and if your game is out of date, it may not launch properly.

• Step 1: Highlight the game on your home screen or in your library.
• Step 2: Press the Menu button (the button with three horizontal lines) on your controller.
• Step 3: Select Manage game and add-ons > Updates.

If an update is available for the game, install it and try to start the game again.

Clear the Xbox Cache

Your Xbox console stores temporary files, or cache, to help speed up processes. However, corrupted or excessive cache data can cause errors, including the 0x87e50031 error. Clearing the cache can resolve these issues:

• Step 1: Turn off your Xbox console by holding the Power button on the front of the console for 10 seconds.
• Step 2: Unplug the power cord from the back of the console and wait for 30 seconds.
• Step 3: Plug the power cord back in and turn the console on by pressing the Power button.

This clears the cache and may resolve the issue when launching the game.

Reinstall the Game

If the game’s installation files are corrupted, you may need to reinstall the game. This can remove any problematic files and download a fresh version of the game.

• Step 1: Highlight the game in your library.
• Step 2: Press the Menu button on your controller.
• Step 3: Select Uninstall.
• Step 4: Once the game is uninstalled, return to the Store or your Games & apps list, and select Install to reinstall the game.

Once the installation is complete, try launching the game to see if the error is resolved.

Test Your Network Connection

Since Xbox error code 0x87e50031 can sometimes be related to network issues, it’s a good idea to check your internet connection. Here’s how you can test and troubleshoot your network:

• Step 1: Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the Guide menu.
• Step 2: Go to Profile & system > Settings > General.
• Step 3: Select Network settings.
• Step 4: Choose Test network connection.

If there is an issue with your network, try restarting your router or switching to a wired Ethernet connection for more stability.

Perform a Power Cycle on Your Xbox

Performing a power cycle can help clear any lingering system issues that a simple restart might not fix. Here’s how to do it:

• Step 1: Press and hold the Power button on your Xbox console for 10 seconds until it shuts down.
• Step 2: Wait for 10 seconds, then press the Power button again to restart your console.

This process will refresh the system completely and may help resolve the error code.

Reset Your Console (Keep Games & Apps)

If none of the above methods work, you might need to reset your console. This should only be done as a last resort, but don’t worry—you can choose an option that keeps your games and apps installed.

• Step 1: Press the Xbox button to open the Guide menu.
• Step 2: Go to Profile & system > Settings > System > Console info.
• Step 3: Select Reset console.
• Step 4: Choose Reset and keep my games & apps.

This will reset the console’s system settings while preserving your game installations and data. After the reset, check if the error persists.

Contact Xbox Support

If you have tried all the solutions above and are still seeing the error code 0x87e50031, it may be time to contact Xbox Support for additional help. They can provide further assistance or let you know if there’s a wider issue affecting other users.

You can visit the [Xbox Support page](https://support.xbox.com/) to explore your options, including chat support, phone support, or the Xbox community forums.

Conclusion

Xbox error code 0x87e50031 can be frustrating, but with these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to resolve the issue and get back to enjoying your games. Whether it’s a simple restart, clearing the cache, or reinstalling the game, these methods will help you tackle the problem.

FAQs

1. Will resetting my Xbox delete my games?

If you choose the option to “Reset and keep my games & apps,” your games, apps, and save data will not be deleted. However, the system settings and accounts will be reset.

2. Why do I keep getting error code 0x87e50031?

Recurring instances of this error could be caused by network instability, game file corruption, or issues with Xbox Live services. Try checking your internet connection, updating your game and console, or contacting Xbox Support for further assistance.

3. How do I know if Xbox Live services are down?

You can check the status of Xbox Live services by visiting the official [Xbox Live Status page](https://support.xbox.com/xbox-live-status). If there’s an outage, you’ll need to wait for Microsoft to fix the problem.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to fixing Xbox error code 0x87e50031 and getting back to your gaming adventures.