How to Stop Game from Minimizing When Using Second Screen: Complete Guide

Playing games on a dual-monitor setup can be a wonderful experience, allowing you to multitask, chat with friends, or keep an eye on other applications while gaming. However, one common issue that many gamers encounter is their game minimizing when they click on the second monitor. This can disrupt gameplay and lead to frustrating situations. In this guide, we will share practical solutions to prevent your game from minimizing when using a second screen, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.

Understanding the Issue

Before diving into solutions, it’s essential to understand why this issue occurs. Most games run in fullscreen mode by default, which takes complete control of your monitor. When you move your cursor to the second screen or use the ALT + Tab shortcut to switch applications, the game can lose focus, causing it to minimize. This behavior is typical for fullscreen applications and can be particularly annoying for those who enjoy utilizing multiple monitors.

Solution 1: Switch to Borderless Windowed Mode

One of the most effective ways to prevent your game from minimizing is to run it in Borderless Windowed Mode. This mode allows your game to fill the screen without being in true fullscreen. The advantage of this setting is that you can freely move your mouse across both screens without minimizing the game.

How to Activate Borderless Windowed Mode:

1. Open the Game Settings: Launch your game and navigate to the settings or options menu.
2. Select Display Settings: Look for a section related to display or graphics settings.
3. Change Display Mode: Find the display mode options and select “Borderless Windowed” if available. If you don’t see this option, look for “Windowed” mode as an alternative.
4. Apply Changes: Save your settings and restart the game if necessary.

Solution 2: Adjust Windows Settings

Sometimes, adjusting your Windows settings can also help manage how applications behave when switching between monitors. Here’s how to modify your display settings:

1. Right-Click on Desktop: On your desktop, right-click and select “Display settings.”
2. Identify Displays: Make sure your displays are properly identified. You can rearrange them by dragging if needed.
3. Set Main Display: Ensure that your primary gaming monitor is set as the main display. Look for a checkbox labeled “Make this my main display” and enable it.
4. Check Resolution: Ensure both displays are set to their recommended resolutions for optimal performance.

Solution 3: Use Third-Party Software

Certain third-party applications can manage window focus and keep your games active even when the cursor moves to other screens. Programs like DisplayFusion or Dual Monitor Tools can help customize and enhance your multi-monitor experience.

How to Use DisplayFusion:

1. Download and Install: Go to the DisplayFusion website, download the application, and install it on your system.
2. Open DisplayFusion: Launch the application after installation.
3. Navigate to Settings: Look for the “Settings” or “Options” menu.
4. Adjust Focus Settings: Explore the settings related to window management and adjust the options to ensure your game remains active while using the second monitor.

Solution 4: Lower Graphics Settings

If the above solutions do not work effectively, consider lowering your game’s graphics settings. This can sometimes help reduce the load on your system and improve its performance, making it more stable when switching between monitors.

Steps to Lower Graphics Settings:

1. Access Game Settings: Launch your game and go to the graphics or video settings.
2. Lower Resolution: Reduce the resolution or texture quality and disable any unnecessary graphical enhancements.
3. Apply Changes: Save your settings, which may also help with performance when you switch screens.

Conclusion

Playing games on a dual-monitor setup should enhance your experience, not hinder it. By following the solutions outlined in this guide, you can prevent your game from minimizing when using a second screen, allowing for uninterrupted gaming sessions. Experiment with switching to borderless windowed mode, adjusting your Windows settings, utilizing third-party software, and adjusting graphics settings for the best outcome. Enjoy your gaming without the hassle of constant minimizing!