The Extended Finite Element Method (XFEM) is a powerful numerical method for simulating crack initiation and propagation, particularly in unconventional hydrocarbon reservoirs such as shale and tight gas formations. This study utilizes XFEM to investigate the evolution of hydraulic fractures, specifically focusing on the influence of crack geometry, including crack length and initial orientation, on fracture behaviour. Unlike previous works that have primarily aimed to validate the general applicability of XFEM in hydraulic fracturing simulations, the present research centers on understanding how variations in crack geometry affect stress intensity factors (SIFs), displacement fields, and fracture propagation paths. Rather than emphasizing XFEM’s well-known numerical strengths, this study highlights its capacity to capture complex fracture-rock interactions within low-permeability and geologically heterogeneous formations. The XFEM framework enables a detailed examination of fluid-driven crack growth under varying mechanical and geometrical conditions. Results demonstrate that increasing crack length leads to higher SIFs and displacement magnitudes, promoting faster fracture propagation. Furthermore, the initial crack angle significantly alters propagation trajectories, with cracks showing a tendency to reorient toward directions of maximum stress concentration. These findings reveal key insights into fracture mechanics in unconventional settings and underscore the complex interplay between crack geometry, stress distribution, and hydraulic forces. Overall, the study confirms XFEM’s potential as a reliable and accurate modeling tool for optimizing hydraulic fracturing design and enhancing recovery efficiency in unconventional reservoirs. Future research should incorporate thermal effects on fracture behaviour, as temperature variations can significantly influence stress fields, material properties, and crack growth in deep subsurface conditions.