Cuphead Crash on Startup, Missing DLL, Gatekeeper & Launch Error Fix (2026)

The pre-installed build listed here is offered as a free download. Note that the official Steam release is a paid game — Valve lists Cuphead as a paid title rather than free-to-play. If you enjoy it, purchasing it on Steam supports Studio MDHR.

Extract the game folder to a location excluded from your antivirus or Defender, install the required apps from the Redist or _CommonRedist folder, then launch Cuphead.exe as administrator. A full Installation Guide.txt is included inside the game files.

Yes, but only local shared-screen co-op in this build. You can play as Cuphead or Mugman with a second player on the same screen. Online crossplay is not available in this offline solo version.

Studio MDHR created the game using techniques from 1930s animation — traditional hand-drawn cel animation, watercolor backgrounds, and original jazz recordings — to faithfully recreate the era's visual and audio style.

This is version v1.3.4 (build 20241530), with content last updated on September 7, 2026. The game version is flagged as up to date against the latest Steam build.

Keyboard play works, but a gamepad is strongly recommended for precision. Some players report controller detection issues with Xbox and PS5 pads — make sure your controller driver or Steam Input is active before launching.