# Esc key stops working when a pop-up window is open on the main Crucible screen

**URL:** <https://forums.ageofempires.com/t/esc-key-stops-working-when-a-pop-up-window-is-open-on-the-main-crucible-screen/290976>\
**Category:** IV - Report a Bug\
**Created:** [October 30, 2026, 12:27am UTC](https://forums.ageofempires.com/t/esc-key-stops-working-when-a-pop-up-window-is-open-on-the-main-crucible-screen/290976 "2026-10-30T00:27:39Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 1\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![kames](https://forums.ageofempires.com/user_avatar/forums.ageofempires.com/kames/32/214660_2.png) [@kames](https://forums.ageofempires.com/u/kames)\
**Post date:** [October 30, 2026, 12:27am UTC](https://forums.ageofempires.com/t/esc-key-stops-working-when-a-pop-up-window-is-open-on-the-main-crucible-screen/290976/1 "2026-10-30T00:27:39Z")

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## Build Number: 17.0.12182.0
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## Platform: Steam
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## Operating System: Windows 10

> ## Issue:

When any pop-up window is opened while on the main screen of Crucible mode, the Esc key stops working. It neither closes the currently open pop-up nor allows players to exit Crucible mode and return to the main menu.

If no pop-up is open after entering Crucible, the Esc key works as intended and allows players to exit the mode.

> ### Trigger Event:

Opening any pop-up window on the main screen of solo or co-op Crucible mode.

> ### Repro Steps:

1. Boot the game and enter solo or co-op Crucible mode.
2. Open any pop-up window by pressing the Advancement, Change Difficulty, Info, or Medal List buttons.
3. Press Esc and observe that it does not close the pop-up or allow you to exit Crucible mode.

> ### Expected Result:

The Esc key should work as intended, allowing players to close the currently open pop-up window or exit Crucible mode and return to the main menu.