Select the second launch option
If PAPERHEAD crashes during combat or does not launch with the default option, use the second option offered when starting the game through Steam:
IF YOUR GAME CRASHESS ON THE DEFAULT LAUNCH OPTION USE THIS
The spelling above matches the option’s label. Select it and try launching the game again.
What this addresses
The developer identifies a Unity and DirectX 12 issue behind this launch workaround. It is the first option to try for the described crashes; it is not a guarantee that every crash has the same cause.
If it still crashes
Keep your system specifications and a description of when the crash happens. Report the issue through the official Steam discussion area or the developer’s official Discord.
If the game runs but menu input is broken, use the separate key rebinding fix.