Introduction to DxWnd
DxWnd is a powerful open-source tool designed to force full screen applications, primarily older Windows games, into a windowed mode. Many older games were designed to run wholly in full screen, making it tough to multitask or run them on modern hardware. DxWnd helps solve this problem by allowing users to tailor windowed locations, advance compatibility, and tweak presentation options.
Key Features of DxWnd
- Forces fullscreen applications into windowed mode
- Improves compatibility with modern Windows versions
- Enhances performance by tweaking DirectX settings
- Enables screen resolution scaling
- Supports advanced debugging tools
- Allows overlays and custom framerate settings
- Fixes graphical glitches in older games
Downloading and Installing DxWnd
Step 1: Download DxWnd
- Visit my official (https://unlokdware.website/)GitHub repository or a trusted source.
- Download the latest DxWnd zip file.
- Extract the contents to a location of your choice (no installation required).
Step 2: Launching DxWnd
- Navigate to the extracted folder.
- Double-click on
dxwnd.exeto open the application. - The main interface will appear, showing a blank workspace.
Setting Up a Game in DxWnd
Step 1: Adding a New Game Profile
- Click Edit in the menu bar and select Add.
- The ‘Target’ window will open, where you configure the settings for your game.
Step 2: Configuring Basic Settings
- Path: Click ‘…’ and navigate to your game’s executable file (
.exe). - Name: Enter a recognizable name for the game.
- Run in Window: Ensure the “Run in window” box is checked.
Step 3: Adjusting Window and Resolution Settings
- Position & Size: Adjust the game’s window dimensions manually.
- Desktop Resolution: Set a custom resolution to scale the game properly.
- Keep Aspect Ratio: Maintain the original aspect ratio to avoid stretched images.
Step 4: Tweaking DirectX and Video Settings
- DirectX Version: Choose the appropriate DirectX compatibility mode.
- Color Fixes: Adjust color mode to prevent graphics corruption.
- Force Vertical Sync (V-Sync): Helps prevent screen tearing.
Step 5: Audio & Input Settings
- Enable Hooking: Ensures keyboard and mouse input is properly captured.
- Audio Emulation: Helps fix sound issues in older games.
Step 6: Applying and Testing
- Click OK to save your settings.
- Right-click the game entry in DxWnd and select Run.
- If needed, tweak settings further for better performance.
Advanced Features and Customization
Frame Rate Control
- Limit FPS: Prevents excessive frame rates that may cause instability.
- Enable Triple Buffering: Smoothens gameplay by reducing stuttering.
Compatibility Fixes
- Emulate Windows Versions: If a game only runs on older Windows versions, DxWnd can mimic them.
- Force CPU Affinity: Assigns the game to specific CPU cores for stability.
Debugging and Logs
- Enable Logging: Helps track crashes and errors.
- Use Hooking Methods: Improves compatibility for stubborn games.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Game Crashes on Startup
- Ensure the correct DirectX version is selected.
- Run DxWnd as Administrator.
- Check if another software is conflicting with DxWnd.
Graphics Glitches or Artifacts
- Adjust color depth settings.
- Enable or disable V-Sync.
- Try different DirectX emulation modes.
No Audio or Input Issues
- Enable keyboard and mouse hooking in settings.
- Check DxWnd logs for any missing dependencies.
Conclusion
DxWnd is a brilliant tool for playing older full screen games in a modern windowed environment. With its wide customization selections, it offers litheness and compatibility improvements that can help bring classic games back to life. By following this guide, you should be able to successfully configure and enjoy your favorite games without the limitations of full screen mode.