Whoops, missed that.
Ok, since portable.txt fixed it, you must some sort of configuration issue. The quickest way to fix that is to delete or rename the graphics configuration files. Go to [username]\Documents\Dolphin Emulator\Config\, and delete or rename all of the ini files with GFX at the start. This will reset your graphics settings, but all of your other settings and saves and things will be save. Let's see if that fixes it!
Wow, I'm shocked, it didn't work
Wait, really? You renamed all four GFX ini files, right?
EDIT: Okaaaay, let's get aggressive then. Rename the config folder itself, and see if it works now. That should more or less do the same thing as going portable, so it should work!
...Also, are you using savestates?
You want me to rename/move my savestates now, yes?
Renaming config folder did not work
Does this issue occur if you don't use savestates at all?
I have to load a state to quickly test the corrupted water and renaming the states folder didn't work
But have you reproduced it without savestates at all?
Yeah, my last true save was right at Tallon. The title + file select (definitely a thing with the background) screen is still usable but just requires patience from constantly alt+f4ing those error messages
Right click the game in the game list, select properties, and show us the Game Settings please.