Fix: LiquidBounce Client Crash On ARM64 When Loading MCEF

Aug 14, 2025 by Axel Sørensen 58 views

[BUG] Client Crashes When Loading MCEF on ARM64: A Comprehensive Analysis and Troubleshooting Guide

We're diving deep into a tricky issue: LiquidBounce crashing on ARM64 devices when loading MCEF (Mini Chromium Embedded Framework). This is a critical problem, especially for users on Windows 11 ARM64, as it prevents the client from fully launching, particularly when the main menu, which relies on MCEF, is being loaded. If you're encountering this frustrating situation, don't worry! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the problem, its causes, and potential solutions. We’ll break down the error logs, discuss the steps to reproduce the bug, and explore troubleshooting strategies to get you back in the game. So, let's get started and tackle this issue head-on!

Understanding the Bug: Client Crashes on ARM64 with MCEF

When dealing with the client crashes during MCEF loading on ARM64, it's essential to pinpoint the root cause. The core issue arises when LiquidBounce, specifically the Nextgen branch, attempts to load the main menu, a process heavily reliant on the MCEF. This problem predominantly affects users on Windows 11 ARM64 devices running Minecraft version 1.21.4 with Java 21. The crash occurs right after the loading screen, precisely when the client needs to render the main menu, indicating a deep-seated incompatibility or configuration issue.

To fully understand the scope of the problem, let's delve into the specifics. Users have reported this issue on LiquidBounce version 0.31.1 and the latest commit, suggesting that it's not an isolated incident tied to a specific build. The use of ARM64 Java, coupled with an OpenGL compatibility layer, adds another layer of complexity. This setup, while intended to bridge compatibility gaps, might introduce unforeseen conflicts.

The logs provided by users offer crucial insights. They reveal that the client successfully loads various mods and libraries but stumbles when initiating MCEF. This points towards a potential problem within the MCEF module itself or its interaction with the ARM64 environment. Common errors in the log include failures related to OpenAL devices and warnings about missing Truffle API resources, which could indicate issues with audio initialization or the GraalVM JavaScript engine, respectively.

Moreover, users have tried removing mods other than LiquidBounce and Kotlin, but the issue persists. This suggests that the problem isn't due to conflicts with other mods, but rather something intrinsic to LiquidBounce’s configuration on ARM64 systems. The steps to reproduce the bug consistently involve using an ARM64 device, downloading Java 21 ARM64, installing an OpenGL compatibility pack, and running LiquidBounce from the LiquidLauncher. This consistent reproduction highlights a systemic problem that needs a focused solution.

By understanding these nuances, we can better navigate the troubleshooting process. In the following sections, we'll dissect the error logs further, explore potential solutions, and guide you through the steps to resolve this vexing crash.

Detailed Analysis of the Client Log

Analyzing the client log is crucial in diagnosing the client crashes experienced when loading MCEF on ARM64 systems. A close examination of the logs reveals several key issues that might be contributing to the problem. Let's break down the log and highlight the critical sections to understand the error better. The initial part of the log shows the successful loading of Minecraft 1.21.4 with Fabric Loader 0.16.14, along with a list of 107 mods. Among these, LiquidBounce 0.31.1 is a significant component, including dependencies like ai_djl_api, mcef 3.1.1-1.21.4, and various GraalVM-related libraries. This section confirms that the client recognizes and attempts to load MCEF, which is essential for the main menu and other UI elements.

However, as we delve deeper, warnings start to appear. Errors like java.lang.ClassNotFoundException for classes such as net/caffeinemc/mods/lithium/common/entity/movement/ChunkAwareBlockCollisionSweeper and others indicate potential issues with class loading or missing dependencies. While these might not be the direct cause of the crash, they highlight underlying problems within the mod environment. The initialization of MixinExtras and the completion of Datafixer optimizations are successful, but these milestones are overshadowed by subsequent errors. The log indicates that the client initializes the rendering environment, sets the user, and registers the Indigo renderer, which is a positive sign. It also lists the loaded item groups and the backend library version (LWJGL 3.3.3-snapshot), confirming the proper functioning of core graphical components.

LiquidBounce’s initialization follows, displaying the client version, branch, operating system, Java version, and screen resolution. This information helps confirm the environment in which the crash occurs. The successful extraction of the default theme and loading of the background image suggest that the initial UI setup is functioning correctly. The reloading of resources, including vanilla and Fabric-related assets, is another step that completes without errors. A critical error emerges in the form of java.lang.IllegalStateException: Failed to open OpenAL device. This indicates a failure in initializing the audio system, which could be a contributing factor to the crash. OpenAL is a cross-platform audio API, and its failure suggests potential driver issues or compatibility problems with the ARM64 environment. Although the client successfully creates various texture atlases, this audio initialization error remains a significant red flag.

The log then mentions the detection of an Intermediary environment and a warning from the GraalVM JavaScript engine about a missing truffleattach resource. This warning is particularly noteworthy as it indicates that the optimized Truffle runtime is unavailable, potentially affecting the performance and stability of JavaScript-based components within LiquidBounce. The initialization of the ScriptAPI and the successful loading of the language file (en_us) are followed by API initialization and Discord IPC configuration, which proceed without errors. However, the repeated mentions of GraalVM and the Truffle warning suggest that issues with the JavaScript engine might be indirectly affecting MCEF, which relies on browser-like functionalities.

The final section of the log provides key information about MCEF itself. It confirms that the JCEF commit is dcf6dd61b5c9c5e6723ffba28b562d208ee9b754 and displays the operating system (WINDOWS), architecture (aarch64), OS version (10.0), and Windows build number (26100). The log also indicates that the client attempts to start a Netty server on port 15000, which succeeds. The critical point is the initialization of CEF (Chromium Embedded Framework) specifically on windows_arm64. This is where the crash is most likely occurring, as CEF is the core component of MCEF. The log states "Initializing browser..." and "Initializing CEF on windows_arm64..." just before the client likely crashes, based on user reports. The logs strongly suggest that the client crashes during the initialization of the CEF component of MCEF on ARM64 systems. The OpenAL failure and the Truffle warning might be contributing factors, but the primary issue appears to be within the CEF initialization process itself. This detailed analysis sets the stage for exploring targeted troubleshooting steps focused on MCEF and its dependencies.

Steps to Reproduce the Bug

To effectively troubleshoot the client crashes when loading MCEF on ARM64, consistently reproducing the bug is crucial. By following a standardized set of steps, we can ensure that the issue is replicable, making it easier to test potential solutions. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps to reproduce the bug:

Obtain an ARM64 Device: The first and most critical step is to have a device with an ARM64 architecture. This typically includes laptops and tablets running Windows 11 on ARM processors, such as the Microsoft Surface Pro X or similar devices.
Download Java 21 ARM64: Ensure you have the correct version of Java installed. Download the Java 21 ARM64 build from Microsoft’s official website or another trusted source. Using the ARM64-specific version is essential, as the standard x64 Java might not be fully compatible with the ARM64 architecture.
Configure LiquidLauncher to Use the Downloaded Java: The LiquidLauncher often uses its bundled Java Runtime Environment (JRE). To use the newly downloaded Java 21 ARM64, you need to configure the launcher to point to the Java executable in the downloaded Java directory. This typically involves modifying the launcher settings or configuration files to specify the path to the java.exe within the Java 21 ARM64 installation folder.
Install OpenGL, OpenCL, and Vulkan Compatibility Pack: Since ARM64 systems might have different graphics driver implementations, installing a compatibility pack can help bridge any gaps. Download and install the OpenGL, OpenCL, and Vulkan Compatibility Pack from the Microsoft Store. This pack provides necessary libraries and drivers that ensure compatibility with various graphical applications, including Minecraft and LiquidBounce.
Run LiquidBounce from LiquidLauncher: Launch LiquidBounce using the LiquidLauncher. Ensure that all the necessary settings are configured correctly, including the selected Minecraft version (1.21.4) and the specified Java path.
Observe the Crash: As the client starts, it will go through the loading screen. The crash typically occurs immediately after the loading screen, precisely when the main menu is supposed to load. This is when MCEF is initialized, and the client attempts to render the UI elements that rely on it.

By meticulously following these steps, you can consistently reproduce the crash, which is vital for testing any proposed solutions. Each step ensures that the environment is set up correctly to trigger the bug, allowing for accurate and reliable troubleshooting.

Troubleshooting Steps and Potential Solutions

Now that we've analyzed the logs and established the steps to reproduce the bug, let's explore some troubleshooting steps and potential solutions to address the client crashes when loading MCEF on ARM64. This section provides a structured approach to resolving the issue, covering various aspects from basic checks to advanced configurations. First off, let's verify Java Compatibility. Since the logs mention using Java 21 ARM64, it's essential to ensure that this version is fully compatible with LiquidBounce and MCEF. While Java 21 is the latest version, compatibility issues can still arise. Try using Java 17 or Java 18, as these versions are often more stable with older applications and mods. To do this, download the specific Java version for ARM64 and configure LiquidLauncher to use it. If switching Java versions resolves the issue, it indicates a compatibility problem with Java 21.

Now, let's dive into Graphics Driver Issues. The crash could stem from incompatible or outdated graphics drivers, especially considering the ARM64 architecture and the use of an OpenGL compatibility layer. Make sure your graphics drivers are up to date. Visit the device manufacturer's website (e.g., Microsoft for Surface devices) and download the latest drivers specifically for your ARM64 device. If you're using the compatibility pack from the Microsoft Store, ensure it's also updated. If updating drivers doesn't work, try a clean installation of the graphics drivers. This involves completely removing the existing drivers and then installing the latest version. This can help resolve any conflicts or corruption in the driver installation.

Now, let's take a look at MCEF and CEF Configuration. Since the crash occurs during MCEF initialization, there might be specific configuration issues within MCEF or its underlying CEF (Chromium Embedded Framework). Look for any configuration files related to MCEF within the LiquidBounce directory. Check for settings that might be causing conflicts on ARM64, such as specific rendering options or hardware acceleration settings. If you find any unusual settings, try reverting them to their defaults. You might also try manually updating the CEF binaries used by MCEF. This is an advanced step and should be done carefully. Download the latest CEF binaries for ARM64 and replace the existing ones in the MCEF directory. Ensure you download the correct version to maintain compatibility. Another approach is to try disabling MCEF temporarily to see if the client loads without it. If the client loads successfully, it confirms that the issue is indeed with MCEF. You can then focus on specific MCEF configurations or look for alternative solutions that don't rely on MCEF.

If those solutions don't work, we'll move onto Memory Allocation Issues. ARM64 devices, particularly those with integrated graphics, might face memory allocation limitations that could affect MCEF initialization. Increase the allocated memory for Minecraft. Modify the JVM arguments in LiquidLauncher to allocate more RAM to the client. For example, you can use -Xmx4G to allocate 4GB of RAM. Monitor memory usage during startup. Use a task manager or resource monitor to observe memory usage as the client loads. If memory usage spikes significantly before the crash, it indicates a potential memory issue. Also try closing unnecessary applications. Ensure no other memory-intensive applications are running in the background, as this can free up resources for Minecraft and LiquidBounce.

Let's consider Compatibility Mode and System Settings. Sometimes, running the application in compatibility mode or adjusting system settings can resolve compatibility issues on ARM64. Run LiquidLauncher in compatibility mode. Right-click the LiquidLauncher executable, select Properties, go to the Compatibility tab, and try running the program in compatibility mode for an older version of Windows. Also, check for conflicting software. Certain software, such as overlay programs or antivirus applications, can interfere with game clients. Try disabling these temporarily to see if it resolves the issue. Creating a new user profile on Windows can sometimes resolve issues related to user-specific settings or configurations. Try running LiquidBounce from a new user profile to see if the problem persists.

We'll also need to consider LiquidBounce and Mod-Specific Issues. Given the complexity of modded clients, there might be specific conflicts or issues within LiquidBounce itself or its interactions with other mods. Try a clean installation of LiquidBounce. Remove all LiquidBounce-related files and folders and reinstall the client. This ensures that there are no corrupted files or conflicting configurations. Disable other mods. Although you mentioned trying this, ensure that all mods except LiquidBounce and Kotlin are disabled. This helps isolate whether other mods are contributing to the issue. Check LiquidBounce configurations. Look for specific LiquidBounce settings that might be causing issues on ARM64. This includes settings related to UI rendering, browser integration, or other advanced features.

Finally, if none of these steps resolve the issue, it's essential to Seek Community Support. The LiquidBounce community or the broader Minecraft modding community might have encountered similar issues and found solutions. Post your issue on the LiquidBounce forums or Discord server. Provide detailed information about your setup, including your ARM64 device, Java version, graphics drivers, and the troubleshooting steps you've already tried. You can also search for similar issues online. Use search engines and forums to look for discussions related to LiquidBounce crashes on ARM64. Other users might have posted solutions or workarounds that you can try. By systematically working through these troubleshooting steps, you'll increase your chances of identifying and resolving the client crashes when loading MCEF on ARM64. Remember to test each solution individually to pinpoint the exact cause of the problem.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tackling the client crashes during MCEF loading on ARM64 requires a systematic approach. Throughout this comprehensive guide, we've dissected the problem, analyzed error logs, and outlined precise steps to reproduce the bug. We've explored a range of troubleshooting steps and potential solutions, from verifying Java compatibility and updating graphics drivers to diving deep into MCEF configurations and system settings. By working through these steps methodically, you significantly improve your chances of identifying the root cause of the issue and resolving it effectively.

Remember, the key to successful troubleshooting is persistence and attention to detail. Each potential solution should be tested individually to pinpoint its impact, ensuring that you can accurately diagnose the problem. If you've exhausted all the steps outlined in this guide and are still facing difficulties, don't hesitate to seek support from the LiquidBounce community or other Minecraft modding forums. Sharing your experience and detailed system information can help others recognize patterns and offer tailored solutions.

Ultimately, resolving technical issues like this not only gets you back in the game but also contributes to the collective knowledge of the community. Your efforts in troubleshooting and sharing your findings can help other users facing similar challenges, making the modding experience smoother for everyone. So, keep experimenting, stay patient, and leverage the resources available to you. With the right approach, you'll overcome this hurdle and continue enjoying LiquidBounce on your ARM64 device.