Messages on Mac not opening on Ventura 13.1

If, after updating to 13.3.1 as Randall_2023 suggested, you still can't open Messages try the following: boot into Safe Mode according to How to use safe mode on your Mac and test to see if the problem persists. Reboot normally and test again.

NOTE 1: Safe Mode boot can take up to 3 - 5 minutes as it's doing the following; 

• Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair directory issues, if needed

• Loads only required kernel extensions (prevents 3rd party kernel/extensions from loading)

• Prevents Startup Items and Login Items from opening automatically

• Disables user-installed fonts 

• Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and other system cache files

NOTE 2: if you have a wireless keyboard with rechargeable batteries connect it with its charging cable before booting into Safe Mode. This makes it act as a wired keyboard as will insure a successful boot into Safe Mode.

First, I would update to Ventura 13.3.1 (a) which as of today, is the most current version available as a public release.

Miracle. Mine just started working again after I tried a couple of things!!!

I was writing a message asking for help:

I suddenly started having the same basic problem a few days ago:

previously updated to Ventura 13.6.1 and it was not concurrent with the onset of Messages failing to launch

popup message to reopen/report/ignore

same issue in Safe Mode

ran Disk Utility First Aid several times

zapped the PRAM

moved com.apple.messages.plist files from Library to Desktop

rebooted, ran First Aid, etc.. to no avail

Last attempts before submitting this message to you:

restored the Preferences .plist and that did not help

restored all of the moved Library files to no avail

First Aid

zapped the PRAM

next thing I realized is I had out of habit opened Messages and sent a message without even thinking about

Something in all of that worked. At least for now.