Useless Games Folder in Windows 7: Why It Exists

Understanding the Windows Games Explorer

The Games Explorer within Windows 7, frequently referred to as the Games folder, is readily accessible with a single click from the Start menu.

This feature serves as Microsoft’s dedicated interface for accessing PC games installed on your system.

However, it’s important to note that not all games are automatically displayed within this interface.

What is a "Game Provider"?

The term "Game Provider" may seem unclear to many users. It refers to the software component that allows a game to integrate with the Games Explorer.

Without a compatible Game Provider, a game will not be recognized and listed within the Games folder.

The History of the Games Explorer

The Games folder originated as part of Windows Vista. Microsoft initially included it as a centralized location for game management.

Following its introduction in Vista, the feature remained largely unchanged throughout the Windows 7 lifecycle.

Subsequent versions of Windows, specifically Windows 8, saw the Games Explorer become less prominent, though it was not entirely removed.

Despite its diminished visibility, the Games Explorer continues to exist as a functional, albeit often overlooked, component of the Windows operating system.

The Games Folder Explained

This folder, also referred to as the Games Explorer, serves as a central location for games on a Windows computer. Microsoft officially defines it as a repository for game-related content within their Windows 7 documentation.

The Games folder provides access to features like game updates, player statistics, and news feeds. It aims to consolidate the gaming experience in one place.

Included Games and Integration

The folder natively contains the classic games bundled with Windows, such as Solitaire and Minesweeper. It was also designed to potentially incorporate third-party games.

However, integration with third-party games is limited, particularly for newer titles. Currently, with 23 Steam games installed on this system, none are integrated into the Games Explorer.

Microsoft initially envisioned a more comprehensive integration with games installed from various sources. This ambition appears to have diminished over time.

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The limited adoption by modern game platforms suggests the Games Explorer has become less relevant in the current gaming landscape.

Games Providers

Within the Games folder, a section labeled "Game Providers" can be found. Initially, this section contains a single link: "More Games from Microsoft." This link directs users to the Xbox Web Games page.

The Xbox Web Games page showcases a selection of free-to-play games accessible directly within a web browser, without requiring any downloads to the user's computer.

Should the now-discontinued Microsoft Games for Windows Marketplace remain installed on a system, it will also be listed within this "Game Providers" area.

The Games for Windows Marketplace was intrinsically linked to the Games for Windows – LIVE service. It represented Microsoft’s effort to establish a robust digital distribution platform for PC gaming.

However, Microsoft ultimately did not invest sufficiently in its development, allowing Steam to become the dominant force in the PC game distribution landscape.

Currently, popular game distribution platforms such as Steam, Battle.net, Origin, and GOG do not integrate with the Windows Games Explorer.

Microsoft’s initial intention was to create a unified hub for all games and game stores installed on a computer, but this vision was never fully realized due to a lack of sustained development.

The Functionality of the Games Folder

The Games Explorer provides supplemental features, functioning primarily as an enhanced Windows Explorer window.

Within this interface, ESRB ratings are displayed. These ratings are integral to the Parental Controls feature, enabling restrictions on access to games with mature content.

System requirements are also presented, utilizing data from the Windows Experience Index. This index details both the minimum and recommended scores needed to run a game, alongside a comparison to your computer’s current performance score.

It’s worth noting that the Windows Experience Index itself was discontinued in Windows 8.1 due to its consumption of system resources.

The Games Explorer also includes options for automated game updates, though currently, there are no known games that utilize this functionality.

Furthermore, the feature allows for the downloading of game news and artwork.

While these elements represented a potential foundation for further development by Microsoft, they were ultimately not expanded upon.

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The Games Explorer: Is it Relevant?

The Games Explorer feature may not warrant your attention. While prominently featured in Windows 7, Microsoft actively de-emphasized it, ultimately concealing it within Windows 8.

Despite not being entirely removed from Windows 8, accessing it requires a specific command. Pressing the Windows key + R, then typing shell:games into the Run dialog and pressing Enter will launch it. However, its utility is limited.

Microsoft’s native shortcuts are no longer present within the Games Explorer in Windows 8. Consequently, the window will appear empty unless third-party games that integrate with the feature are installed.

Original Intent and Current Functionality

Initially, the Games Explorer aimed to catalog all installed games, delivering associated news and updates. This function is now largely superseded by platforms like Steam and other dedicated gaming services.

Even when games are listed, the Games Explorer typically offers only a shortcut and basic information like ratings or system requirements. Updates are not managed through this interface; that responsibility lies with established, actively maintained services.

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The continued presence of this feature stems from its initial introduction in Windows Vista. Microsoft never fully developed or iterated upon it.

Had development continued, the Games Explorer potentially could have evolved into a centralized hub for managing all installed games. Currently, it’s best regarded as a legacy component.

Removing the Games Explorer

Fortunately, the menu option can be hidden. Right-click on the taskbar and select "Properties". Navigate to the "Start Menu" tab, then click "Customize".

Scroll down the list to find "Games" and select "Don't display this item". This will remove the Games Explorer from your Start menu.