Xbox Game Bar Not Opening or Working? [How to Fix?]
Are you pressing Windows + G, but the Xbox Game Bar is not opening or working? Don’t worry, sometimes the feature is disabled accidentally. While In other cases, outdated Windows updates or corrupted system files can prevent it from launching. Some third-party apps or gaming overlays can also conflict with it.
The Xbox Game Bar is a useful built-in feature in Windows that allows gamers and creators to record gameplay, capture screenshots, monitor performance, and chat with friends. It comes preinstalled in Windows 10 and Windows 11 and is designed to open quickly using the Windows + G shortcut. However, many users experience issues where the Xbox Game Bar does not open, crashes, or stops working entirely.
In this post, we will learn how to fix your Xbox Game Bar if it is not working or opening.
Xbox Game Bar Not Opening or Working? [How to Fix?]
If the Xbox Game Bar is not opening or working, first ensure it is enabled in Windows Settings under Gaming. Update Windows and graphics drivers, then repair or reset the Xbox Game Bar from Apps settings. If the issue continues, reinstall the app using PowerShell or check for conflicts with background programs. These steps resolve most Game Bar problems quickly.
Follow the steps below in order; this will help you identify and fix the root cause.
Step 1: Enable Xbox Game Bar in Windows Settings
The most common reason for the Xbox Game Bar not opening is that it is disabled in settings. Windows allows users to turn off this feature, which stops the shortcut from working.
Open Windows Settings by pressing the Windows key and I together. Navigate to Gaming and then select Xbox Game Bar. Make sure the option that allows you to open Xbox Game Bar using the controller or keyboard shortcut is turned on.
Once enabled, press Windows + G to check if it opens. If it launches successfully, the issue was simply due to the feature being disabled. If not, continue with the next step.
Step 2: Check Keyboard Shortcut and Game Mode
Sometimes the keyboard shortcut for Xbox Game Bar may not function due to changes in settings or conflicts with other software.
Open Settings, go to Gaming, and click on Xbox Game Bar. Verify that the shortcut for opening Game Bar is set to Windows + G. If it has been changed, restore the default shortcut.
Also, go to Gaming and select Game Mode. Ensure Game Mode is turned on. This helps Windows prioritize gaming services, including the Xbox Game Bar. After enabling it, restart your computer and try opening the Game Bar again.
Step 3: Update Windows to the Latest Version
An outdated Windows version can cause compatibility issues with built-in apps like Xbox Game Bar. Keeping your system updated ensures all gaming components work correctly.
Open Settings, then go to Windows Update. Click Check for updates and install any available updates. After installing, restart your computer to apply changes.
Once the system reboots, try launching Xbox Game Bar again using the keyboard shortcut. Updated system files often fix hidden bugs that prevent the feature from working.
Step 4: Repair Xbox Game Bar App
If the Game Bar still does not open, the app files may be corrupted. Windows provides a repair option that fixes minor issues without removing data.
Open Settings and go to Apps. Click on Installed Apps or Apps and Features. Find Xbox Game Bar in the list and click on it. Select Advanced options.
Scroll down and click on Repair. This process will scan and repair damaged app files. Once completed, restart your computer and check if the Xbox Game Bar opens properly.
Step 5: Reset Xbox Game Bar
If repairing does not fix the problem, resetting the app can restore it to its default state. This removes corrupted data and restores original settings.
Go to Settings, then Apps, and find Xbox Game Bar. Click on Advanced options again. Scroll down and select Reset. Confirm your choice and wait for the reset process to finish.
After resetting, restart your computer and try opening the Game Bar. In many cases, resetting resolves persistent issues.
Step 6: Reinstall Xbox Game Bar Using PowerShell
If the Xbox Game Bar is still not working, reinstalling it can help. This ensures a fresh installation of the app and removes any corrupted components.
Right-click on the Start menu and select Windows Terminal or PowerShell with administrator privileges. Type the command to remove Xbox Game Bar and press Enter. Then open the Microsoft Store and search for Xbox Game Bar. Install it again from there.
After reinstalling, restart your system and check if the Game Bar launches normally.
Step 7: Check Graphics Driver Updates
Outdated or incompatible graphics drivers can interfere with gaming features and overlays like Xbox Game Bar. Updating drivers ensures proper functionality.
Open Device Manager from the Start menu. Expand Display adapters and right-click on your graphics card. Select Update driver and choose automatic search.
You can also download the latest driver directly from the official website of your graphics card manufacturer, such as NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel. After updating, restart your system and test the Game Bar again.
Step 8: Check Background Apps and Conflicts
Some third-party overlays and screen recording tools can conflict with the Xbox Game Bar. Apps like Discord overlay or other recording software might prevent it from opening.
Close unnecessary background applications and disable other gaming overlays temporarily. Restart your computer and try launching the Game Bar again. If it works after closing certain apps, that app may be causing the conflict.
Keeping only one overlay active at a time helps avoid performance and compatibility issues.
Step 9: Run Windows Troubleshooter
Windows includes built-in troubleshooters that detect and fix system issues. Running the troubleshooter can resolve problems affecting the Xbox Game Bar.
Open Settings, go to System, then Troubleshoot. Select Other troubleshooters and run the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Once completed, restart your computer and try opening the Game Bar again.
Step 10: Check Microsoft Account Sign In
The Xbox Game Bar relies on a Microsoft account for certain features. If you are not signed in properly, it may fail to launch.
Open the Xbox Game Bar or the Xbox app and ensure you are logged into your Microsoft account. If needed, sign out and sign back in. Restart your computer and check again.
This step ensures proper synchronization between Xbox services and your Windows system.
Faqs
Why is the Xbox Game Bar not opening with Windows + G?
This usually happens when the feature is disabled in settings or the shortcut is changed. Enabling it in Gaming settings and checking the shortcut should fix the problem.
Can outdated drivers cause Xbox Game Bar issues?
Yes. Outdated graphics drivers can prevent the Game Bar from launching or functioning properly. Updating drivers often resolves the issue.
Is Xbox Game Bar available on Windows 11?
Yes. The Xbox Game Bar is available on both Windows 10 and Windows 11 as a built-in gaming feature.
Will resetting the Xbox Game Bar delete recordings?
Resetting the app usually resets settings, but does not delete saved recordings stored in your Videos folder.
Do I need the Microsoft Store for the Xbox Game Bar?
Yes. The Xbox Game Bar is managed through the Microsoft Store, so it must be working properly for updates and installation.
Summary
The Xbox Game Bar not opening or working is a common issue faced by many Windows users. The problem can occur due to disabled settings, outdated drivers, corrupted app data, or conflicts with other applications. Fixing it involves enabling the feature in settings, updating Windows and drivers, repairing or resetting the app, and reinstalling it if necessary.