SOLVED: Windows 10 Game Bar Not Working

The Xbox Game Bar is a built-in feature in Windows 10 that allows gamers to capture screenshots, record gameplay, and access various gaming widgets. However, some users experience issues where the Game Bar fails to open or function correctly.

We will look at the common reasons behind the problem and provide solutions.

Why Is the Windows 10 Game Bar Not Working?

Several factors can cause the Game Bar to stop working, including:

• Disabled Game Bar settings – If the feature is turned off, it won’t open.
• Outdated or corrupted system files – Missing or damaged files can prevent proper functionality.
• Conflicting background applications – Other software may interfere with the Game Bar.
• Corrupt Game Bar app data – Issues within the Game Bar app itself.
• Disabled Xbox services – Required Xbox-related services must be running for the Game Bar to work.

How to Fix Windows 10 Game Bar Not Working

Try these troubleshooting methods to restore the Game Bar’s functionality.

1. Enable the Game Bar in Windows Settings

If the Game Bar is disabled, it won’t launch:

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Gaming > Xbox Game Bar.
3. Toggle Enable Xbox Game Bar for things like recording game clips to On.
4. Restart your PC and try opening the Game Bar by pressing Win + G.

2. Restart the Game Bar Process

A background glitch may cause the Game Bar to stop working. Restarting or resetting the game bar will help fix the issue.

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Locate GameBar.exe under Processes.
3. Right-click and select End Task.
4. Try relaunching the Game Bar using Win + G.

3. Reinstall the Game Bar

Reinstalling the Game Bar can fix corruption issues:

1. Open PowerShell as Administrator.
2. Run the following command: Get-AppxPackage Microsoft.XboxGamingOverlay | Remove-AppxPackage
3. Open the Microsoft Store, search for Xbox Game Bar, and reinstall it.

4. Check Xbox Services

The Game Bar requires specific services to be running:

1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Locate the following services:
   • Xbox Live Auth Manager
   • Xbox Live Game Save
   • Xbox Accessories Management Service
3. Right-click each service, select Properties, set Startup type to Automatic, and click Start if stopped.

5. Update Your Graphics Drivers

Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers may cause Game Bar issues:

1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Display adapters.
3. Right-click your GPU and select Update driver.
4. Choose Search automatically for drivers and install updates if available.

Alternatively, you can use Fortect, a third-party PC repair tool with driver updater features that automatically scans and updates outdated or corrupted drivers, ensuring optimal performance and stability.

Try downloading Fortect now.

6. Reset the Game Bar App

Resetting the app can fix glitches:

1. Press Win + I and go to Apps > Apps & features.
2. Find the Xbox Game Bar, click Advanced options, and select Reset.
3. Restart your PC and try relaunching the Game Bar.

7. Perform a Windows Update

A missing update may affect Game Bar functionality:

1. Press Win + I and go to Update & Security.
2. Click Check for updates and install any pending updates.

Final Thoughts

If your Windows 10 game bar is not working, try enabling it in settings, restarting the process, or updating your drivers. In many cases, reinstalling the game bar or updating system files can resolve the issue. If problems persist, tools like Fortect can help repair corrupted files and optimize system performance for a smoother gaming experience.