Many users encounter this error when trying to use a desktop shortcut or the .exe file in the game folder.
Getting the "Steam must be running to play this game" error while trying to launch (whether the 2005 classic or the 2023 Remake) is a common hurdle that usually stems from a communication breakdown between the game's executable and the Steam client.
Here are the most effective solutions to get you back into Leon’s boots. 1. Launch Directly from the Steam Library
: Close the game, open the Steam app , and click Play from your Library . This ensures the Steam API initializes correctly alongside the game. 2. Run Steam as an Administrator