[2021] Failed to Launch - .dll files missing

You shouldn't need to run the .exe as Windows admin. Do you still see those same errors when ck3.exe is run normally from File Explorer?

Those DLLs ought to be in the Steam/steamapps/common/CK3/binaries/ folder- are they in fact there or missing somehow? Because if they were missing running the Steam Verify really ought to replace them.  

Me either, in all honesty. It smells like a Windows issue, possibly in search paths, but not one I've come across before.

I take it that HOI4, EU4 and CK2 still run okay?

What if you make another user in Windows, log into Windows as that, and install and play the game from there - any different?  

Dyer Maker said: I am having this exact issue as well.

Exact in the sense that you get the same missing DLL errors shown in the OP here?  

Dyer Maker said: No, not exactly that, but the same result. If I run the exe (in Crusader Kings III/Binaries) as administrator I get "The application was unable to start correctly (0xc0150004). Click OK to close the application" The launcher does not work, it only gives me "The game failed to launch" When everything fails you begin to look for alternatives to address the issue. So far I've had no luck at all. It's heartbreaking, because I played the game in March successfully, but since then I've replaced my dead gpu with a new one, and now cannot play (only this) Paradox title.

In future please start your own thread, thanks, as intertwined conversations about multiple issues get confusing for everyone!

That's not a common Windows error with our games, but try running the Windows Update app, see if it finds anything to update. If so do that and reboot.

Then please run this Windows repair tool:

Use the System File Checker tool to repair missing or corrupted system files

Describes how to use the System File Checker tool to troubleshoot missing or corrupted system files in Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7 or Windows Vista. support.microsoft.com See if that finds anything to fix.