Game bar sometimes doesn't boot on Win + G

Question

When I press Win + G, nothing happens and when I open it using it's icon (taskbar or start menu), it does open but I can't record any footage. Also, when I try to go to the menu "game bar" in settings, the app crashes. Though I enabled game bar, this strange bug occurs. Some time after pressing Win + G, game bar finally opens and I can record footages again.

Answer 1

Hi, good day!

• When was the last time it worked properly?
• What is your Windows operating system and version?

Press Windows key+R to open Run then type: winver

Press Enter

Please take a screenshot of the resulting window and post it in your next response. Note: Don't include any personal information as Microsoft Q&A is a public forum.

---

Please let me know if you have tried the methods below.

• Check for Updates on the Microsoft Store app Open Microsoft Store Click Downloads > Check for updates Click Update all
• Reset Game Bar app Press Start then search Game Bar Right click it then select App settings Click Terminate > Repair > Reset

I look forward to receiving your update and I'm willing to collaborate with you till we resolve the issue. Do keep me informed by clicking "Add comment" below.

Answer 2

It sounds like you're experiencing some issues with the Xbox Game Bar on Windows 10. Here are a few things to consider:

1. Game Bar Activation: Ensure that the Game Bar is properly enabled in your settings. Sometimes, even if it appears enabled, toggling it off and then back on can help resolve activation issues.
2. Running Applications: The Game Bar may not open if a PowerShell or Command Prompt window is currently in focus. Make sure to focus on a different application before pressing Win + G.
3. Crashes and Bugs: If the Game Bar crashes when you access the settings, it may be due to a bug. You can try resetting the Game Bar settings or reinstalling it if possible.
4. Recording Issues: If you can open the Game Bar but cannot record, check if your device meets the hardware requirements for recording. Additionally, ensure that no other applications are currently using the recording feature, as this can prevent the Game Bar from capturing footage.
5. Known Issues: There are known issues with the Game Bar, including problems with certain controls and instances where it may not function correctly with specific applications or games. If you're using a game that runs in full-screen mode, try switching to windowed mode to see if that resolves the issue.

If the problem persists, consider checking for updates to Windows and the Game Bar, as updates may include bug fixes and improvements.

---

References:

• Using Game Bar with widgets
• Test and debug your widget
• Known Issues and Limitations
• Capture game audio, video, screenshots, and metadata