How to FIX Nioh 3 Failed to Play Movie Codec Error (100% Working Guide)

If you are trying to launch Nioh 3 on PC and see the frustrating “Failed to Play Movie – Codec Error”, you’re not alone. Many players face this issue, which prevents cutscenes or the main menu from loading.

The good news? This error is 100% fixable. Follow this guide to solve it quickly on both Steam and standalone PC versions — no advanced skills needed.

🎬 What Causes the Nioh 3 Codec Error?

The error appears when Nioh 3 attempts to play a cinematic video but fails. Most commonly, this happens due to missing or outdated VP9 Video Extension on Windows 10/11.

Game crashes on startup
Black screen followed by codec error
Intro cinematic doesn’t play
Game closes automatically

✅ Step-by-Step Fix

Step 1: Close Nioh 3 completely and check Task Manager

Step 2: Make sure Windows 10 or 11 is updated (64-bit)

Step 3: Install the VP9 Video Extension

Step 4: Restart PC to register the codec

🛠 Optional Fixes

Verify Game Files (Steam)

Open Steam → Library → Nioh 3
Right-click → Properties → Installed Files → Verify integrity

Update Graphics Drivers

NVIDIA GeForce Experience
AMD Adrenalin Software
Intel Graphics Command Center

📹 Video Tutorial

⚡ Why This Fix Works

Nioh 3 uses VP9 video compression. Windows doesn’t always include VP9 support by default. Installing the VP9 Video Extension restores decoding support for all cinematic files, permanently fixing the issue.

⬇ Download Latest VP9 Video Extension

🎯 Final Thoughts

The Nioh 3 Failed to Play Movie Codec Error is frustrating but easy to fix. Installing the correct VP9 codec restores full game functionality. Bookmark this guide or share it with friends to help others.