Play a Computer Game in Windowed Mode

Benefits of Playing in Windowed Mode

Windowed mode is an often overlooked feature in computer games, but it offers a host of benefits that can enhance your gaming experience. Whether you prefer playing casual games or diving into intense multiplayer battles, switching to windowed mode can provide you with more flexibility and convenience. Here are some key advantages:

Multi-tasking: One of the main advantages of windowed mode is the ability to multitask while playing. You can easily switch between your game and other applications like a web browser, chat program, or video player without exiting the game. This is especially useful when you need to quickly check a walkthrough, communicate with teammates, or listen to music while gaming.
Improved Accessibility: Windowed mode allows you to adjust the game window’s position and size on your screen. This can be particularly beneficial for players who have multiple monitors. You can dedicate one monitor to the game and use the other for tasks like monitoring system performance, watching streams, or keeping an eye on social media.
Reduced Alt-Tabbing: Playing in full-screen mode often requires frequent alt-tabbing to switch between the game and other applications. This can be cumbersome and lead to delays or interruptions in your gameplay. In windowed mode, you can easily access other windows or applications with a simple click, saving you time and frustration.
Troubleshooting and Monitoring: Windowed mode makes it easier to troubleshoot and monitor various aspects of your game. You can keep an eye on system resource usage, temperatures, and performance metrics using third-party tools or built-in software while still having your game visible. This can help you identify and address potential performance issues or optimize your gaming experience.
Streamlining Capture and Recording: If you enjoy creating game content or recording gameplay footage, windowed mode can make the process more seamless. It allows you to easily capture or record specific parts of the game window without the need for additional screen capturing software.

By utilizing windowed mode, you can significantly enhance your gaming experience by improving accessibility, multitasking capabilities, and troubleshooting efficiency. This feature offers the freedom to seamlessly switch between your game and other applications, control window size and position, and optimize your gameplay. With these benefits in mind, it’s worth giving windowed mode a try and exploring how it can enhance your gaming sessions.

How to Switch to Windowed Mode in Different Games

Switching to windowed mode in games can vary depending on the game itself. While some games provide an in-game option to switch between fullscreen and windowed mode, others may require a few extra steps. Here’s a general guide to help you switch to windowed mode in different types of games:

Triple-A Games: Many modern triple-A games have a dedicated video settings menu where you can customize display options. Look for a “Display” or “Graphics” section in the game’s settings and search for an option to switch to windowed mode. It may be listed as “Fullscreen,” “Windowed,” or “Windowed Fullscreen.” Apply the changes and the game will switch to windowed mode.
Indie and Retro Games: Older or indie games may not have a built-in option for windowed mode. In such cases, you can try pressing the “Alt + Enter” keys on your keyboard. This common keyboard shortcut often toggles between fullscreen and windowed mode in many games.
Launcher Settings: Some games have a launcher or game client through which you access the game. In these cases, you may find windowed mode options within the launcher settings. Look for a gear or settings icon and navigate through the display or graphics settings. You should be able to find an option to switch to windowed mode.
Command Line Options: Certain games offer advanced settings and customization options through command line parameters. To switch to windowed mode using command line options, you’ll need to locate the game’s executable file. Open the command prompt or a text editor, and use a specific command line parameter, such as “-windowed” or “-w” followed by the game’s executable file path. Launch the game using the modified command line and it should open in windowed mode.
Third-Party Tools: If the above methods don’t work, you can try using third-party tools like Borderless Gaming or Windowed Borderless Gaming. These tools can force games to run in windowed mode even if they don’t have built-in options for it. Just launch the game through the respective tool, and it will run in a borderless window on your screen.

Remember that not all games support windowed mode or may have limitations in terms of resolution or display settings. Additionally, certain games may have specific requirements or restrictions when running in windowed mode. It’s always a good idea to consult the game’s official documentation, community forums, or support resources for any specific instructions or recommendations for switching to windowed mode in that particular game.

Adjusting Window Size and Resolution

When playing games in windowed mode, you have the flexibility to adjust the window size and resolution according to your preferences and screen limitations. This allows you to optimize your gaming experience and ensure that the game fits well within your screen. Here are some ways to adjust window size and resolution:

Resizing the Window: In most games, you can manually resize the game window by hovering your cursor over the edges or corners of the window until a resize cursor appears. Click and drag to expand or shrink the window size as desired. Keep in mind that resizing the window may affect the aspect ratio and visual quality, so it’s important to find a balance that suits your preference.
Changing the Resolution: Some games allow you to change the resolution within the game settings. Look for a “Video” or “Graphics” section and explore the available resolution options. Ideally, you should select a resolution that matches your monitor’s native resolution. Keep in mind that lowering the resolution can improve performance, but it may result in a less sharp or grainy visual experience.
Display Scaling: If you find that the game window is too small or too large in windowed mode, you can adjust the display scaling settings on your operating system. This option is especially useful if you are playing on a high-resolution monitor. In Windows, navigate to the “Display Settings” and adjust the scaling percentage to make the game window more comfortable to view.
Using Borderless Windowed Mode: Some games offer a borderless windowed mode option, which allows the game to run in a borderless window that stretches across the entire screen. This mode eliminates the need to manually resize the window and makes it easier to switch between the game and other applications seamlessly. Look for a “Windowed Fullscreen” or “Borderless Window” option in the game’s settings to enable this mode.
Custom Resolution Tools: If a game doesn’t provide the desired resolution options, you can try using third-party tools like Custom Resolution Utility (CRU) or graphics card control panel software. These tools allow you to create custom resolutions that aren’t available by default. However, be cautious when using such tools as they may require technical knowledge and can potentially affect system stability if not used correctly.

Experiment with different window sizes and resolutions to find the optimal settings for your gaming experience. Keep in mind that adjusting the window size and resolution may impact performance, so it’s essential to strike a balance between visual quality and smooth gameplay. Additionally, monitor limitations and hardware capabilities can influence the available options, so be aware of your screen’s capabilities when making adjustments.

Using Multiple Monitors

If you have multiple monitors, utilizing them while gaming in windowed mode can greatly enhance your gaming experience. It provides additional screen real estate, allowing you to have the game displayed on one monitor while utilizing the other(s) for other purposes. Here’s how you can make the most of multiple monitors:

Extended Display: In most cases, your operating system will automatically extend the display across multiple monitors. This means that you can simply drag the game window to the desired monitor and play on a larger screen. This setup is ideal for games that benefit from having additional information or applications open on a separate monitor, such as strategy games, MMOs, or streaming while gaming.
Dedicated Gaming Monitor: If you have one monitor specifically dedicated to gaming, you can make it the primary display for the game window. By setting this monitor as the primary display in your operating system settings, the game will automatically launch on that monitor. This prevents any accidental movement of the game window and ensures a seamless gaming experience.
Multi-tasking and Productivity: With multiple monitors, you can easily multitask while gaming. For example, you can have a web browser open on one monitor for quick research or communication, a music player or streaming software on another for background entertainment, or even a chat program open for real-time communication with friends or teammates. This setup allows you to seamlessly switch between tasks without interrupting your gameplay.
Monitoring and Performance: Multiple monitors are also valuable for monitoring system performance while gaming. You can dedicate a monitor to display real-time information about CPU and RAM usage, temperatures, frame rates, and more. This helps you keep track of your system’s performance and make informed decisions to optimize your gaming experience.
Custom Display Configurations: Some games offer specific display settings and configurations for multi-monitor setups. These settings may include options for stretching the game window across multiple monitors, displaying a different game view on each monitor, or utilizing one monitor for the game and the others for peripheral displays. Explore the game’s settings to see if there are any options tailored to multi-monitor setups.

Utilizing multiple monitors while gaming in windowed mode allows you to enhance your productivity, multitasking capabilities, and overall gaming experience. By extending the display, dedicating a gaming monitor, or utilizing multiple screens for different purposes, you can create a customized setup that fits your gaming style and preferences.

Keyboard Shortcuts for Windowed Mode

Keyboard shortcuts can be incredibly useful when navigating and managing games in windowed mode. They provide quick and convenient ways to perform common actions, switch between applications, and control the game window. Here are some essential keyboard shortcuts to enhance your windowed mode experience:

Alt + Enter: This shortcut is a universal command that toggles between fullscreen and windowed mode in many games. Pressing “Alt + Enter” can quickly switch the game to windowed mode or vice versa, allowing you to seamlessly transition between different applications without losing your progress or interrupting gameplay.
Alt + Tab: The classic shortcut “Alt + Tab” is indispensable for easily switching between applications. When you have the game running in windowed mode, pressing “Alt + Tab” allows you to instantly switch to another open program or window. This is particularly handy for checking messages, browsing the web, or replying to emails during your gaming sessions.
Windows key + Arrow keys: In Windows, pressing the “Windows key” along with the left or right arrow keys is a great way to move the game window between monitors or snap it to one side of the screen. This keyboard shortcut is particularly useful when you want to shift the focus of the game to a specific monitor or divide your screen space efficiently for multitasking.
Ctrl + Esc: This shortcut opens the Start menu or the Windows taskbar, allowing you to quickly access additional programs or system utilities. It’s a handy shortcut when you want to launch another application or access specific settings without minimizing or closing the game window.
Alt + F4: Sometimes, you may need to close the game window quickly. Pressing “Alt + F4” is a universal shortcut to close the active window in most applications, including games running in windowed mode. It provides a fast way to exit a game without going through menus or options.

Keep in mind that keyboard shortcuts can differ between games and operating systems, so it’s always a good idea to consult the game’s documentation or settings to identify any specific keyboard shortcuts and customization options available. Additionally, you can explore third-party software or utilities that allow you to create custom keyboard shortcuts for specific game functions or window management tasks.

By mastering these essential keyboard shortcuts, you can streamline your workflow, efficiently manage your game window, and navigate between applications with ease while enjoying your gaming experience in windowed mode.

Customizing Windowed Mode Settings

Customizing the windowed mode settings can further enhance your gaming experience by tailoring it to your preferences and specifications. Each game may have its own options for customization, allowing you to optimize the display, performance, and overall gameplay. Here are some common settings you can customize in windowed mode:

Graphics and Display Options: Most games provide a range of graphical settings that can be adjusted in windowed mode. These settings may include options like resolution, texture quality, antialiasing, shadows, and more. Experiment with different settings to find the balance between visual quality and performance that suits your system and gaming preferences.
Window Size and Position: Some games offer options to set the default window size and position. This means that you can specify the precise dimensions and screen location of the game window when playing in windowed mode. Customizing the window size and position can help you achieve a consistent and comfortable display across sessions.
Aspect Ratio: Adjusting the aspect ratio of the game window can be essential in windowed mode, especially if you have a non-standard or ultra-wide monitor. Look for options that allow you to select the aspect ratio that matches your monitor’s native resolution to avoid stretching or cropping of the game’s visuals.
Audio Settings: Some games provide audio customization options, including volume controls for music, sound effects, and voice chat. You can adjust these settings to create the perfect audio balance, ensuring that you can hear important details while enjoying an immersive gaming experience.
Input Configuration: In windowed mode, you can typically configure and customize input settings, including keyboard and mouse controls, gamepad bindings, and sensitivity options. Customizing these settings allows you to optimize your gaming experience and personalize the controls to match your play style.
Other Advanced Options: Depending on the game, there may be additional advanced settings available in windowed mode. These could include options for frame rate limitations, Vsync (vertical sync), field of view adjustments, motion blur, and more. Explore the game’s settings and documentation to discover any additional customization options.

Remember to adjust these settings carefully, keeping in mind the capabilities of your hardware and the desired balance between performance and visual quality. Experimenting with different settings can help you find the optimal configuration for your gaming experience in windowed mode.

Additionally, keep an eye out for mods or third-party software that may provide expanded customization options for specific games. These can offer additional features and settings not available in the base game, allowing you to further customize your windowed mode experience.

Troubleshooting Windowed Mode Issues

While playing games in windowed mode can offer many benefits, there may be instances where you encounter issues or challenges. Here are some common troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve windowed mode issues:

Graphics Driver Update: Outdated or incompatible graphics drivers can lead to various issues while running games in windowed mode. Make sure to keep your graphics drivers up to date by visiting the manufacturer’s website or using driver update software. This can resolve compatibility issues and improve overall performance.
Check Game Settings: Double-check the game’s settings to ensure that it is set to run in windowed mode. Some games may revert to fullscreen mode after updates or changes, so verifying the settings can help resolve the issue. Additionally, look for any specific options related to windowed mode, such as borderless window, resolution, or display settings, and ensure they are properly configured.
Disable Fullscreen Optimization: In Windows 10, an optimization feature known as “Fullscreen Optimization” can sometimes cause issues with windowed mode. To disable this feature, right-click the game’s executable file, go to Properties, navigate to the Compatibility tab, and check the box that says “Disable fullscreen optimizations.”
Run as Administrator: Some games require administrative privileges to run properly in windowed mode. Right-click on the game’s executable file, select “Run as administrator,” and see if this resolves any issues you are encountering.
Disable Background Programs: Certain background programs or applications can interfere with windowed mode. Close unnecessary programs running in the background, especially those that might overlay the game window or conflict with its display settings. Antivirus software, screen recording tools, and communication applications are common candidates that can cause conflicts.
Verify Game Files: If you are experiencing issues with a particular game in windowed mode, it may be helpful to verify the integrity of game files. Many game launchers or platforms offer an option to verify game files, which can fix any corrupted or missing files that could be causing the issue.
Restart or Reinstall the Game: If the above solutions don’t resolve the windowed mode issue, try restarting your computer or reinstalling the game. This can help fix any temporary glitches or problems with the game installation that may be impacting windowed mode performance.

If you continue to experience issues while running games in windowed mode despite attempting the troubleshooting steps above, it may be helpful to consult the game’s official support channels, community forums, or contact the game’s developers for further assistance and guidance.

Remember to document any error messages or specific details about the issue you are encountering, as this information can be instrumental in troubleshooting and resolving the problem.

Performance Considerations in Windowed Mode

While windowed mode offers greater flexibility and multitasking capabilities, it’s important to be aware of the performance implications it may have on your gaming experience. Here are some key factors to consider regarding performance when running games in windowed mode:

Resource Allocation: Running games in windowed mode may affect how system resources are allocated. Since the game window shares resources with other applications and processes on your computer, it can potentially impact the game’s performance. Additional background programs or processes running concurrently with the game may consume CPU, RAM, or GPU resources, leading to decreased performance.
Display Resolution: The resolution of the game window can impact performance, especially when playing on high-resolution monitors or stretching the window across multiple screens. Higher resolutions require more processing power from your GPU, which can impact frame rates and overall performance. Consider adjusting the game’s resolution in windowed mode to strike a balance between visual quality and performance.
Window Size: The size of the game window in windowed mode can also affect performance. A larger window may require more resources to render the game’s visuals, which can lead to lower frame rates or choppiness. Similarly, a smaller window may provide better performance but at the cost of reduced visibility and potentially affecting gameplay experience. Experiment with different window sizes to find the optimal balance between performance and playability.
Background Processes: While multitasking is a major advantage of windowed mode, it’s important to be mindful of other applications running in the background. Programs such as web browsers, communication tools, or media players can consume resources and impact game performance. Closing unnecessary background processes or limiting their usage while gaming can help optimize performance in windowed mode.
Compatibility and Optimization: Not all games are optimized equally for windowed mode. Some games may run more efficiently in fullscreen mode, while others can perform equally well or even better in windowed mode. It’s advisable to consult the game’s documentation, forums, or support resources to determine if there are any specific considerations or optimizations for windowed mode.
Hardware Limitations: Performance in windowed mode can also be influenced by your hardware specifications. Older or lower-end systems may struggle to handle demanding games in windowed mode, resulting in decreased frame rates or graphical artifacts. Understanding the capabilities and limitations of your hardware can help manage expectations and make informed decisions about running games in windowed mode.

Keep in mind that the performance impact of windowed mode can vary from game to game and system to system. It’s essential to monitor your system’s performance using tools such as task managers, hardware monitoring software, or in-game performance overlays to assess the impact of windowed mode on your gaming experience. Adjusting game settings, closing unnecessary background processes, and optimizing your hardware can help mitigate any performance issues and ensure a smoother gameplay experience in windowed mode.

Tips for Optimal Windowed Mode Experience

To make the most of your gaming experience in windowed mode, consider implementing these tips to optimize performance, convenience, and overall enjoyment:

Monitor Compatibility: Ensure that your monitor supports the resolution and aspect ratio you want to use in windowed mode. Using an unsupported resolution or aspect ratio may result in stretched or distorted visuals.
Limit Background Processes: Close unnecessary background applications and processes to free up system resources. This can help maximize the performance of your game in windowed mode.
Optimize Game Settings: Fine-tune the in-game graphics, resolution, and other settings to strike the right balance between visual quality and performance. Experiment with different settings in windowed mode to find what works best for your system.
Monitor Overheating: Keep an eye on your system’s temperatures, especially if running games in windowed mode for extended periods. Ensure that your computer is adequately cooled to prevent overheating and performance throttling.
Utilize Task Manager: Use the task manager to monitor resource usage and identify any background processes that may be consuming excessive resources. This can help troubleshoot any performance issues you encounter in windowed mode.
Update Graphics Drivers: Regularly update your graphics drivers to ensure optimal performance, compatibility, and stability while gaming in windowed mode. Check the manufacturer’s website or use driver update software to keep your drivers up to date.
Eliminate Distractions: Minimize distractions by disabling notifications, enabling “Do Not Disturb” mode, or setting up a dedicated gaming profile. This can help you maintain focus and immersion while playing in windowed mode.
Security and Privacy: Be cautious of your surroundings while playing games in windowed mode, particularly if you are streaming or sharing screens. Ensure that sensitive information is not visible to others and take precautions to protect your privacy.
Explore Game-specific Features: Take advantage of any game-specific features or settings designed for windowed mode. These may include borderless window options, multi-monitor support, or configuration options to optimize the gaming experience.
Backup Game Settings: Keep a backup of your game settings, such as configuration files or graphics presets. This can be useful if you need to reinstall the game or switch to a new computer, ensuring that your windowed mode preferences are maintained.

By implementing these tips, you can enhance your gaming experience in windowed mode and enjoy the flexibility, convenience, and multitasking capabilities it provides. Experiment, fine-tune, and customize your settings to find the optimal balance between performance, visuals, and overall enjoyment while gaming in windowed mode.