I am getting this error with a fresh install on a fresh setup of Windows 7 (this is my current license). I used to use a Windows Vista setup, but that compy died on me. I currently use Linux MINT with a Virtual Box of Windows, but I am getting this error even with a straight up boot partition of Windows. The updater does work, just not the game. I have found references to this exact error on the Klei Entertainment forum, but the fix assumes one is using the Steam version:

"Re-install vcredist in folder C:\Program Files\Steam\steamapps\common\dont_starve\VCRedist.exe

Re-install DXSETUP in folder C:\Program Files\Steam\steamapps\common\dont_starve\DXRedist.exe

After doing these two steps, run the game again"

I am aware that those are Microsoft installers, and I have manually downloaded and installed them. The error still persists. Any ideas would be appreciated.

Tried with no improvement. I have managed to dig up my old Win XP installation CD and key, but so far that isn't working with the game either (at least as a virtual box).

Still tinkering with it to see if I can figure it out.

I think I have it figured out. For whatever reason, my 1 GB video card is only registering as a 128 MB video card. Since the game requires 256 MB of video memory, I suspect that's the culprit. Now I just have to figure out why my video card isn't recognizing it's full potential anymore, and/or if I need to replace it.

Confirmed solved. The BIOS settings for the built in video port were interfering with the video card settings for some reason. Now that the full amount of video memory is being recognized, Don't Starve is running perfectly. :)

I still dont understand what i have to do either.. to fix this problem?!..

There is another possible cause to this problem: Apparently Don't Starve requires a very specific version of DirectX, available at:

www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=8109

If you do not have this version, the game will not work, even if you have a newer version.