In our tests, we found that Game Mode didn't have a huge impact on higher-end systems, but if you're prone to multi-tasking or have lots of processes running in the background, Game Mode could be useful to you. Additionally, Microsoft has plans to improve the feature in subsequent updates, so it's at least worth knowing where it is.

Here's how to enable (and disable) Game Mode in Windows 10.

Enable (and disable) Game Mode

You can also force Game Mode on in specific games, whether they're tested by Microsoft or not. To do this, you need to use the Windows 10 Game Bar.

  1. Inside your game, press Windows Key + G to open the Game Bar.

  2. This should release your cursor. Now, find the Game Mode icon on the right side of the bar as shown below.

  3. Click to toggle Game Mode on or off.
  4. Click on your game or press ESC to hide the Game Bar.

While Game Mode won't make a huge difference for most games, if you're prone to heavy background task usage, or you're using a lower-end system without much overhead for games, Game Mode could be useful.

More Windows 10 resources

For more help articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10, visit the following resources:

Update May 3, 2018: We've updated this guide to account for changes in the April 2018 Windows 10 update.