Game Mode in Windows is a feature that optimizes the OS for the needs of the game and makes the gameplay more stable. You can learn more about it from our article.
What is Game Mode in Windows?
Before diving into the settings, it’s helpful to understand what exactly this feature does and how it impacts performance.
Game mode in Windows is a special feature that redistributes operating system resources in favor of the running game. When activated, Windows tries to minimize background activity (updates, notifications, etc.) to free up additional power for the game and reduce freezes.
What does the game mode affect?
Before enabling a feature, it’s worth understanding what aspects of the system it affects.
- Performance: The system allocates more resources (processor, video card and RAM) to the game.
- Notifications and background processes: Reduces the number of system notifications and suspends non-priority background tasks.
- Frame rate stability (FPS): Redistribution of resources helps to maintain stable FPS without sudden drops.
Is there a difference between Windows 10 and Windows 11 Game Mode?
The basic concept of Game Mode remains the same in both generations of Windows: the system allocates more resources to the game. However, in Windows 11, Game Mode has been improved: compatibility with modern hardware has been improved, and the settings interface has been updated. Additional gaming features have also been added, such as Auto HDR and an updated Xbox app.
When should you enable game mode?
To choose the right moment to activate it, it is worth understanding in which situations the game mode will be especially useful.
- Games with high system requirements. If you don’t have the most powerful system, every freed core and megabyte of RAM can increase FPS;
- Online games: Additional optimization helps reduce lag;
- Game Streaming: When streaming, it is important to maintain a stable FPS and minimize the load on the system;
- Background processes: Game mode will help you temporarily pause updates and notifications so you don’t get distracted while you play.
How to Enable Game Mode in Windows 10
Before you begin, make sure your system is up to date and you have access to the Gaming settings in Windows 10.
- Open Settings. Click Start and select the gear icon or use the keyboard shortcut Win + I;
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- Select “Game Mode”. In the tab on the left, click “Game Mode”;Go to the “Games” section. In the left menu, select “Gaming”;Select “Game Mode”. In the center of the screen, find and open “Game Mode”;Go to the “Games” section. Among the settings, find the “Games” item (Game);
- Activate the feature. Turn on the “Game Mode” toggle switch to enable optimization for games.
How to Enable Game Mode in Windows 11
In Windows 11, managing Game Mode has become a little easier, but the general principle remains similar.
Source: CQ / Windows 11
- Open Settings. Click Start and select Settings or use the keyboard shortcut Win + I;
Source: CQ / Windows 11
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- Turn on the switch. Make sure the “Game Mode” switch is in the “On” position.
Game mode does not turn on or does not work. What to do?
Even a useful feature can sometimes malfunction, so it’s worth knowing how to quickly find and fix potential problems.
- Update your drivers. The video card and other components must have current driver versions;
- Install the latest Windows updates. Outdated system components may prevent the mode from working correctly;
- Check your antivirus settings. Some antivirus applications may block or limit the function;
- Scan your system for viruses. Malicious software can eat up resources and disrupt game functions;
- Check the integrity of system files. Run the sfc /scannow command as an administrator to fix the damage;
- Reinstall the game or verify its integrity. The problem may be related to the game i
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