If the issue persists after moving files manually, the cleanest solution is to right-click the game in Steam, select Manage > Uninstall , and then reinstall it directly to your preferred drive. Summary Checklist Target Issue 1 Run Steam as Admin Permission Mismatch 2 Verify Game Files Missing/Broken steam_api.dll 3 Add Antivirus Exclusion False Positive Blocks 4 Clear Download Cache Corrupted Session Data 5 Opt-out of Steam Beta Client Version Instability If you want to troubleshoot further, let me know:
: Allow Steam to replace any corrupted or missing files automatically. 3. Clear Steam Download Cache & Repair Library If the issue persists after moving files manually,
The "Steam must be running to play this game" error in DmC: Devil May Cry Clear Steam Download Cache & Repair Library The
Here are the most effective community-proven fixes for this specific error: Top Community Fixes ClientRegistry.blob : Navigate to your Steam installation directory (usually C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam ) and delete ClientRegistry.blob . Restart Steam and try launching the game. Run as Administrator select Manage > Uninstall