Windows Error 0x80073D21 Game Install Failed — What It Means & How to Fix It

Fix Windows/Xbox error 0x80073D21 when installing or updating games from the Microsoft Store or Xbox app fails. This guide covers everything you need to know about this topic, including common causes, step-by-step solutions, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Here are the key things to understand: Error 0x80073D21 occurs when a game installation from the Microsoft Store or Xbox app fails. Typically related to the game trying to install on a drive that does not meet requirements. Xbox Game Pass games require installation on NTFS-formatted drives. The error can also appear when the Xbox app's gaming services component is corrupted. Understanding these fundamentals will help you diagnose and resolve this issue more effectively.

The most common reasons this occurs include: Target installation drive is formatted as exFAT or FAT32 instead of NTFS. Insufficient disk space on the target drive for the game and its temporary files. Xbox Gaming Services app is corrupted or not installed properly. Windows Store cache is corrupted preventing proper package registration. Identifying the root cause is the first step toward finding the right solution.

To resolve this, follow these recommended steps: Ensure the target drive is formatted as NTFS: right-click drive in File Explorer > Properties. Free up at least 10GB more than the game's listed size for temporary installation files. Reset the Xbox app: Settings > Apps > Xbox > Advanced Options > Reset. Repair Gaming Services: run Get-AppxPackage Microsoft.GamingServices | Remove-AppxPackage in PowerShell, then reinstall from Store. If these steps do not resolve the issue, consider consulting additional resources or a qualified professional.

This article is part of our Windows Error Codes collection on Error Codes Wiki. We provide comprehensive, up-to-date information to help you find solutions quickly.