Gaming on a PC has evolved a lot in recent years, and with Windows 11, Microsoft has pushed this even further by introducing what’s colloquially known as Xbox Mode.
Targeted initially at handheld Windows-based gaming PCs, this mode provides a console-like user interface, optimizes system resources, and puts your gaming experience front and centre.
With a few simple steps and caveats, you can enable this experience on almost any Windows 11 device, whether it's a laptop, handheld device, or desktop.
The rise of PC gaming has attracted gamers’ attention massively toward creating high-end setups. However, many gamers are unaware that playing games on Windows PCs can be just as flexible. This flexibility wasn't streamlined before; Microsoft bridges the gap with the introduction of Xbox Mode in Windows 11. With this mode, players can now give their PC and handheld devices a console-like interface.
The Xbox Mode is initially designed for handheld gaming PCs, such as ASUS ROG Ally. This newly launched mode will transform the Windows 11 interface into a simplified, controller-friendly dashboard, similar to what you see on an Xbox console.
The best part is, players don’t need a special gaming device to enjoy it. Just a few simple steps will enable Xbox Mode on any Windows 11 PC or laptop, providing a smoother performance and faster game access.
Before proceeding with the exact steps, it’s necessary to understand why the Xbox Mode is available and whether it’s the right choice for the setup.
Xbox Mode makes Windows 11 gaming experience into a dedicated gaming hub by offering a console-style interface. Once players enable it, they can navigate their gaming libraries and Xbox Game Pass without the need for a keyboard or a mouse. One can even launch titles without any external hardware. This is specifically useful for handheld Windows gaming PCs and touchscreen laptops.
That’s just one part. There’s more to consider. The Xbox Mode reduces background activity, providing a smoother gameplay experience with quicker load times. There won’t be any distractions, such as desktop icons or background windows; instead, the system will focus solely on gaming.
However, the Xbox Mode is still in the testing stage and isn’t officially available on every device. Therefore, users need to adopt a slightly modified process, and the following steps should be considered.
Also Read: How to Set Up Xbox Cloud Gaming on Steam Deck Easily
If your device isn’t officially compatible, the process is a bit tricky. Otherwise, if it is compatible, the process is simple.
The first step is to check the system requirements regularly. Ensure that your PC is running Windows 11 version 25H2 or later. It's preferable to have later versions, as older Windows 11 versions may not support this feature.
Once the compatibility check is complete, proceed to the next step, which is downloading the Xbox Full Screen Experience Tool. This app helps players toggle the mode manually.
Once installed, follow the on-screen prompts and click on ‘Enable Xbox Full Screen Experience.’ After the process is done, keep it as the default option.
Now, restart the PC to apply the changes properly. After it restarts, go to the Microsoft Store and check for updates. This ensures that Xbox elements, such as the Game Bar and Game Pass apps, are updated to the latest version.
The final step includes changing the default Home App. For that, players need to go to Settings, from there, Gaming, and next to Full Screen Experience. Once there, select Xbox as your home app.
After all these steps are completed correctly, the system will launch with a complete Xbox-style interface whenever you enable gaming mode.
[Note: for disabling the Xbox Mode, go to the Xbox Full Screen Experience Tool and select
‘Disable and Restore.’]
Also Read: Amazon Luna vs Xbox Cloud Gaming vs GeForce Now: Who’s Best?
Xbox Mode will undoubtedly enhance the gaming setup, but it may not suit everyone. For hardcore gamers or professional gamers, who generally use their PC for gaming or are used to controllers, the Xbox Mode is the best choice. For multitaskers who switch between work and games, this frequent switching may feel inconvenient.
Additionally, one thing players need to remember is that Xbox Mode hasn’t yet arrived officially for loads of devices. Therefore, the launch requires unofficial tweaks. Players need to be cautious and maintain a restore point to revert to a previous state if things go wrong.
The interface generally works well for users; however, for some laptops, it may cause display issues, depending on the drivers. If you are ready to experiment with new features, this mode is worth enabling.
1. What is Xbox Mode in Windows 11?
Ans: Xbox Mode is a newly introduced gaming mode that allows PC players to experience a full-screen gaming interface similar to that of an Xbox console on their Windows 11 devices.
2. Can I enable Xbox Mode on any PC?
Ans: The answer is yes if the system runs on Windows 11. Though it is designed for handheld gaming PCs, it can be manually enabled on any Windows 11 PC with a few simple steps.
3. Does Microsoft officially support Xbox Mode?
Ans: Microsoft supports the Xbox Mode, but not on all devices. A few devices are currently compatible with running this mode, but gamers can activate it on any device using the Xbox Full Screen Experience tool.
4. Will it affect my normal desktop experience?
Ans: The straightforward answer is no. Even with the Xbox Mode enabled, you can easily switch between regular Windows and Xbox Mode using system settings or the Xbox Full Screen Experience tool.
5. Do I need Game Pass for Xbox Mode to work?
Ans: Not necessarily. The Xbox Mode works independently. However, Game Pass will enrich the gaming library and enhance the gaming experience.