Last Updated: 2025-12-17
You might receive the following notification from Embark Game Boot:
We have detected your computer is using an Intel 13th or 14th processor that does not have the proper updates installed to address potential processor instability issues. It is highly recommended to update the BIOS on your motherboard to the latest version with Intel’s microcode 0x12F or later.
CPU Name: [this will indicate the name of your detected CPU]
Microcode version: [This will indicate the microcode of your CPU version]
What is a CPU?
CPU stands for Central Processing Unit (processor). It is a hardware component that acts as the “brain” of the computer. It fetches, decodes, and executes instructions, which allows the machine to run the operating system, applications, and perform all core functions. CPU is the primary component of your computer.
What’s wrong with my CPU?
If you received the notification, it means our systems detected that your PC is equipped with an Intel CPU that has known issues. These issues lead them to develop instabilities that cause game crashes.
Below is an excerpt from Intel Instability Reports Update. You can also read it on the official page here.
Based on extensive analysis of Intel Core 13th/14th Gen desktop processors returned to us due to instability issues, we have determined that elevated operating voltage is causing instability issues in some 13th/14th Gen desktop processors. Our analysis of returned processors confirms that the elevated operating voltage is stemming from a microcode algorithm resulting in incorrect voltage requests to the processor.
Intel is delivering a microcode patch which addresses the root cause of exposure to elevated voltages. We are continuing validation to ensure that scenarios of instability reported to Intel regarding its Core 13th/14th Gen desktop processors are addressed. Intel is currently targeting mid-August for patch release to partners following full validation.
Intel is committed to making sure all customers who have or are currently experiencing instability symptoms on their 13th and/or 14th Gen desktop processors are supported in the exchange process.
To help streamline the support process, Intel's guidance is as follows:
For users who purchased 13th/14th Gen-powered desktop systems from OEM/System Integrator - please reach out to your system vendor's customer support team for further assistance.
For users who purchased boxed 13th/14th Gen desktop processors - please reach out to Intel Customer Support for further assistance.
For users who purchased tray 13th/14th Gen desktop processors - please reach out to your place of purchase for further assistance.
What should I do?
If you bought your PC as a pre-built machine (Dell, HP, Lenovo, and others), please reach out to the manufacturer for additional support.
If you verified that the problems aren’t caused by any other system, you need to update your BIOS to prevent CPU degradation. Please refer to official Intel instructions here.
Unfortunately, the Embark support team cannot provide assistance with any step of this process. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this, please contact Intel support here.
Does this mean I can no longer play ARC Raiders or THE FINALS?
You can still access all our games as normal. The notification is there to inform you about potential issues with your PC; you have an option to click “Ignore” to close the window. If you click “Exit”, the game process will terminate automatically.
However, please note that in case of crashes and issues caused by the CPU instability, our support team will not be able to provide any further assistance.
If I’m already experiencing crashes, will updating my BIOS fix them?
Unfortunately, no. If your processor has started displaying signs of instability, the update will only prevent the problem from getting worse.
Other questions:
Are all Intel CPUs affected?
No. According to Intel, only socketed desktop 13th and 14th generation CPUs are affected. 13th and 14th generation HX/H/P/U mobile CPUs are not affected. Any other generation is not affected.
I am using a computer that doesn’t belong to me. What should I do?
Please contact the owner (or their representative) of the machine and inform them about the problem. For example, it can be the Internet cafe administrator or your company IT department if you’re using a corporate machine. The issue will have to be handled by the PC owner and cannot be helped with by the Embark support team.
Does this mean I should replace my CPU?
This decision is entirely up to you. Please contact the Intel support team to learn more about your options.
What will happen to my CPU and/or computer if I don’t do this?
Unfortunately, the Embark team cannot provide detailed information on this.
But I haven’t experienced any issues or crashes yet. Do I still need to do this?
This decision is yours. Updating your BIOS and checking for BIOS updates regularly may prevent the instability from developing, but Embark cannot provide more information on this.
Will having this instability cause any in-game penalties, such as bans?
No, the notification is designed to simply inform you about the problem. However, please note that in some cases a leaver penalty may be applied in THE FINALS in case of a crash that causes you to leave an active round.