Change Xbox Gamertag: A Step-by-Step Guide
Xbox Gamertags: Beyond the Console
The Xbox ecosystem has evolved significantly. It now extends beyond a traditional gaming console, functioning as an application and a suite of services deeply integrated within Windows 10.
Despite this expansion, Xbox continues to utilize the original gamertag – or nickname – linked to your Microsoft account.
This gamertag may have been established years ago on an Xbox 360, or potentially assigned through Microsoft’s former Games for Windows LIVE platform.
Changing Your Gamertag Through the Xbox App
For those wishing to modify their gamertag, the Windows 10 Xbox app provides a convenient method, even without owning an Xbox console.
This offers an alternative to changing it directly on the console itself.
Microsoft’s Gamertag Change Policy
However, altering your gamertag isn't entirely unrestricted. Microsoft implements a somewhat restrictive policy regarding name changes.
While a single free gamertag change is theoretically available, this isn't always functional, as some users have reported.
Subsequent changes require a $10 fee, or the addition of a separate Microsoft account to the Xbox application.
- A single free change is often offered.
- Additional changes cost $10 each.
- Using a different Microsoft account is another option.
Modifying Your Xbox Gamertag at No Cost
Related: Exploring the Top Xbox Features Integrated into Windows 10 (Regardless of Xbox Ownership)
To alter your gamertag directly from Windows 10, launch the Xbox application via your Start menu. Select your profile picture located in the top-left corner of the application window. Your Xbox profile details will then be displayed.
Within the profile pane, at the bottom, click the "Customize" option beneath your profile picture.
Proceed by clicking "Change gamertag" which is positioned under your current gamertag.
Related: Understanding PC Gamer Discontent with Microsoft's "Games for Windows LIVE"
A single complimentary gamertag modification is generally provided. However, the Xbox application may indicate that your free change has already been utilized, even if this is inaccurate. This issue can potentially be traced back to complications arising from Microsoft’s discontinued Games for Windows LIVE service.
This service previously assigned my initial default gamertag many years ago.
If you are fortunate – and particularly if your Xbox profile was recently created – a free gamertag change may still be available. The application will then allow you to input a new gamertag. Remember that this represents your sole free gamertag alteration for this account, so choose wisely!
Modifying Your Xbox Gamertag: A $10 Option
Should a complimentary gamertag alteration not be available to you, you will be directed to "Xbox.com." This will navigate you to the dedicated gamertag change page on Microsoft’s official website. Alternatively, you can directly access this page through your preferred web browser, enabling gamertag modifications from any device.
Ensure you log in using the identical Microsoft account associated with the Xbox app on Windows 10.
Selecting a New Gamertag
The website interface provides the functionality to select a desired new gamertag. Once a suitable name is chosen, click the "Claim it!" button.
You will then be forwarded to a page offering the "Gamertag Change" service for purchase.
Cost of a Gamertag Change
In the United States, this service is priced at $9.99. The cost may vary in other regions, generally aligning with equivalent currency values based on your location.
Currently, purchasing a gamertag change is the only available method. Attempts to obtain a free name change through Microsoft support, via the "Contact Support" application included with Windows 10, are unlikely to succeed.
It’s important to note that, as stated on the website, "There are no refunds" for this service.
- Gamertag changes require a $9.99 purchase in the US.
- The cost is subject to currency conversion in other countries.
- Free changes are rarely granted by Microsoft support.
Utilizing an Alternate Microsoft Account within the Xbox App
For users seeking to alter their Xbox gamertag without incurring a cost, an alternative method exists. This involves logging into the Xbox application using a distinct Microsoft account.
To initiate this process, navigate to the settings icon located in the bottom-left corner of the Xbox app. From there, select the "Sign Out" option found under your current user account details.
Upon attempting to log back in, the Xbox app will initially attempt to authenticate you with the Microsoft account associated with your Windows 10 installation. However, a link labeled "Sign In With a Different Microsoft Account" will be available under the "Use Another Account" option.
The account you select can be any valid Microsoft account. Consider creating a new Microsoft account solely for this purpose if desired.
After successfully logging in with a Microsoft account that has not previously been linked to an Xbox Live profile, you will be prompted to choose a new gamertag. This chosen name will then be displayed within the Xbox app and across Xbox services integrated into Windows 10's Store applications.
Your original Microsoft account will remain the primary account for your Windows installation, the Windows Store, and other Windows 10 services.
It's important to understand that signing in with a new Microsoft account will result in a fresh profile, devoid of any previously earned achievements, friends lists, or associated data. This represents a completely new start.
Should you wish to retain your existing achievements and friend connections, utilizing the paid gamertag change service, which costs $10, will be necessary.
Microsoft's policy regarding gamertag changes stems from a desire to maintain unique user identification on Xbox Live. The company aims to prevent frequent alterations, particularly in cases involving online harassment.
Notably, even subscribers to Xbox Live Gold, who pay an annual fee of $60, do not receive complimentary name changes and must also pay the $10 fee should they wish to modify their gamertag.
As Microsoft increasingly competes with Steam in the PC gaming market, it is relevant to note that Steam permits unlimited free name changes.
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