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Windows key not working with game open - Game Mode off

Anonymous
2023-03-19T03:37:13+00:00

I don't game often, so I can't say for sure when this first started to happen, but I have just noticed that pressing the Windows key with a game open no longer opens the Start menu to quickly get out of a game in full screen mode. Several suggestions say to turn of Game Mode in the settings, which I have now done. Unfortunately, that did not solve the issue; the Windows key still does not work.

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Gaming

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  1. Paulo GM 63,625 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2023-03-19T05:47:27+00:00

    Sure. You might also want to check your device features if there is a gaming mode option elsewhere other than the built-in option in Settings. Most gaming laptops have this and it is either software from the manufacturer or a feature from an external keyboard. Good luck :)

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  2. Paulo GM 63,625 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2023-03-19T05:25:49+00:00

    Hi Walter, I am Paulo and I'd like to help.

    Have you checked if the filter keys option is disabled? Go to Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard > Filter keys

    If that didn't help, try enabling the Windows key using this option to make sure they are set to default in the Registry

    https://www.tenforums.com/tutorials/73314-enabl...

    (Disclaimer: Tenforums is a non-Microsoft website but the page provides accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the site that may advertise products frequently classified as PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the site before you decide to download and install it.)

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  3. Paulo GM 63,625 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2023-03-19T14:39:47+00:00

    I'm glad you were able to determine the cause of the problem. Filing a bug report would also help others who experience this when playing the game. You're very welcome :)

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  4. Anonymous
    2023-03-19T14:35:04+00:00

    Okay, so it seems that it happens mostly with one game. Obviously, I haven't tried every game on my computer, but it looks like whatever is going on is tied to that game or possibly others by the same dev. I'll shot the dev an e-mail/bug report. Thank you for the advice though.

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  5. Anonymous
    2023-03-19T05:41:37+00:00

    Filter Keys is off. Further, the Windows key does work when outside of fullscreen games. It seems (as far as I can tell anyway) to only not work when in a game on fullscreen mode.

    I will double check the registries via instructions on the linked page when I get a chance, but, given that the key does work elsewhere, I am doubtful that that is the cause.

    Thank you.

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