How to Stop Games Minimizing Dual Monitors Windows 11: A Guide

Playing games on a dual monitor setup with Windows 11 can be a blast, but it’s no fun when your game keeps minimizing unexpectedly. Luckily, stopping games from minimizing is a straightforward process that can be tackled in just a few steps.

How to Stop Games Minimizing Dual Monitors Windows 11

Before we dive into the step-by-step tutorial, let’s understand what these steps will accomplish. Essentially, we’re going to adjust some settings on Windows 11 that will tell your system to focus on the game, keeping it from minimizing when you’re in the middle of the action.

Step 1: Check Your Game’s Graphics Settings

Make sure your game is set to run in fullscreen mode.

Games often have their own graphics settings that can override system settings. Setting your game to run in fullscreen mode can help keep it from minimizing when you switch to your other screen.

Step 2: Adjust Your Display Settings

Change your display settings to extend these displays.

Right-click on your desktop, go to Display settings, and make sure your monitors are set to ‘Extend these displays.’ This will allow you to use both monitors without your game minimizing when you click on the second screen.

Step 3: Tweak Focus Assist Settings

Turn off Focus Assist in Windows 11.

Focus Assist is a feature that minimizes distractions, but it can sometimes cause your game to minimize. You can find Focus Assist settings in the System menu of your Windows Settings. Turning it off ensures that notifications won’t interrupt your game.

Step 4: Run Your Game as Administrator

Run the game’s executable file as an administrator.

Right-click on your game’s shortcut or executable file, select ‘Run as administrator’ and see if this prevents the game from minimizing. It gives the game higher priority over other processes, which can sometimes help.

Step 5: Update Graphics Drivers

Make sure your graphics drivers are up to date.

Outdated graphics drivers can cause all sorts of issues, including your game minimizing. Check your graphics card manufacturer’s website for updates or use the Windows Device Manager to update your drivers.

After completing these steps, your game should stay maximized on your primary monitor, even when you’re interacting with your second monitor. This allows you to game and multitask without any annoying interruptions.

Tips to Stop Games Minimizing Dual Monitors Windows 11

• Check for any third-party software that might be causing the issue. Some programs are known to interfere with fullscreen applications.
• Make sure your game is compatible with dual monitor setups. Not all games support dual monitors by default.
• Consider using gaming software that offers dual monitor support, such as Nvidia Surround or AMD Eyefinity.
• If you frequently switch between gaming and other tasks, consider setting a hotkey to quickly switch between monitor setups.
• Lock your cursor to the game screen using third-party software if the above steps don’t work. This prevents accidental clicks on the second screen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do my games keep minimizing on Windows 11?

Games may minimize on Windows 11 due to system notifications, incorrect display settings, or third-party software interference.

Can I play games on one monitor and work on another with Windows 11?

Yes, you can play games on one monitor and work on another by setting up your monitors to extend and ensuring your game runs in fullscreen mode.

What is Focus Assist, and how does it affect gaming on dual monitors?

Focus Assist is a Windows feature that helps reduce distractions by minimizing notifications. However, it can sometimes cause games to minimize unexpectedly.

How do I update my graphics drivers on Windows 11?

You can update your graphics drivers through the Device Manager or by downloading the latest drivers from your graphics card manufacturer’s website.

Is there a permanent fix to stop games from minimizing on dual monitors?

While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, following the steps in this tutorial and applying the tips provided can significantly reduce or eliminate the issue.

Summary

1. Check your game’s graphics settings.
2. Adjust your display settings.
3. Tweak Focus Assist settings.
4. Run your game as an administrator.
5. Update your graphics drivers.

Conclusion

So there you have it, gamers! No more frustration with games minimizing when you’re in the middle of a crucial mission or about to score that winning goal. By following the steps outlined above, you should be able to seamlessly play your favorite games on one monitor while multitasking on the other. Remember, it’s all about making sure your settings are aligned with your gaming needs. Stay updated with your software, keep an eye out for any third-party programs that might be causing conflicts, and most importantly, make sure your game is in fullscreen mode to prevent it from minimizing on your dual monitors with Windows 11. Happy gaming and multitasking!