What is it?
GameConsoleMode is basically a way to turn your Windows PC into something that feels like a proper gaming console. Think Steam Deck's interface, but running on actual Windows. When you boot up with GCM, you skip all the Windows desktop stuff and go straight into your game launcher - whether that's Steam, Playnite, or Xbox app.
How does it work?
The main trick GCM uses is replacing the Windows shell. Normally when Windows starts, it loads explorer.exe - that's what gives you the desktop, taskbar, and all that. GCM swaps this out temporarily by modifying a registry key. Instead of launching explorer.exe, Windows launches GCM's custom interface. So you never see the regular Windows UI at all - it's hidden in the background. If you ever wish to switch to regular desktop environment, the GCM task manager has a dedicated button to seamlessly switch to regular desktop (re launches explorer.exe). It also temporarily disables UAC (User Account Control) while in game mode to avoid those annoying permission popups interrupting your gaming.
What makes it console-like?
The whole point is couch gaming without dealing with Windows getting in the way. With GCM windows boots directly into preferred launcher and you are then able to launch games, or access GCM task manager to change settings, access desktop if needed, or switch to other applications if you wish with ease. You can also access GCM task manager when in game and easily switch back! This can be a gamechanger for a handheld as well!
Here's what GCM adds:
- Controller shortcuts - You can do stuff like switch audio devices or enable performance overlays (NVIDIA/AMD) with button combos. No need to pull up Windows menus.
- Custom task manager - Press Back + Start on your controller and you get GCM's task manager instead of the Windows one. You can launch games, switch between running apps, all without seeing any Windows UI.
- Lossless Scaling shortcut - Quick button combo to enable it on the fly.
- Launcher integration - Works with Steam, Xbox app, and Playnite. Boots straight into whichever one you prefer.
The result
You get a setup where you can game from your couch with a controller and never have to deal with desktop windows, mouse cursors, or Windows interruptions. Everything you need is accessible through controller shortcuts. When you want you can switch to Windows desktop automatically via GCM Task Manager with ease.