Creating desktop shortcuts for games in Windows 10 is a convenient way to quickly access your favorite games without having to navigate through multiple folders. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, having desktop shortcuts for your games can save you time and effort. In this blog post, we will explore various methods to create desktop shortcuts for games in Windows 10 and discuss their pros and cons.
What’s Needed
To create desktop shortcuts for games in Windows 10, you will need the following:
1. Windows 10 operating system
2. The game you want to create a shortcut for, installed on your computer
3. Basic knowledge of your computer’s file system and desktop navigation
4. Patience and enthusiasm for customizing your gaming experience.
Video Tutorial:
What Requires Your Focus?
Before we dive into the various methods of creating desktop shortcuts for games in Windows 10, let’s take a look at the key areas you should focus on:
1. Compatibility: Ensure that the game you want to create a shortcut for is compatible with Windows 10. Some older games may not be fully compatible, and you may need to take additional steps to make them work.
2. File locations: Understand where the game files are located on your computer. This information will be crucial when creating desktop shortcuts.
3. Organizational preferences: Consider how you want to organize your desktop shortcuts. You can create separate folders or group them based on genres, platforms, or any other criteria that make sense for you.
Option 1. How to Create Desktop Shortcut via Right-Click
Creating a desktop shortcut via the right-click method is the most straightforward option. Follow these steps:
1. Locate the game executable file: Navigate to the folder where your game is installed. Look for the file with the extension ".exe," which represents the game executable.
2. Right-click on the game executable file: Once you’ve found the file, right-click on it to bring up the context menu.
3. Select "Create shortcut": From the context menu, hover over the "Send to" option, and then click on "Desktop (create shortcut)".
Pros:
– Quick and easy method
– Doesn’t require any additional software or technical knowledge
– Works for most games and applications
Cons:
– Limited customization options
– May not work for games with complex file structures
Option 2. How to Create Desktop Shortcut via Start Menu
Another way to create a desktop shortcut for your game is through the Start menu. Here’s how:
1. Open the Start menu: Click on the Windows icon located at the bottom left corner of your screen to open the Start menu.
2. Locate the game: Scroll through the Start menu until you find the game you want to create a shortcut for.
3. Right-click on the game: Once you’ve located the game, right-click on it to bring up the context menu.
4. Select "Open file location": From the context menu, click on "Open file location" to navigate to the game’s installation folder.
5. Create shortcut: In the game’s installation folder, right-click on the game executable file and select "Create shortcut".
6. Move shortcut to desktop: Once the shortcut is created, drag and drop it onto your desktop.
Pros:
– Provides easy access to your games through the Start menu
– Allows customization through Start menu folder organization
– Works well for games with complex file structures
Cons:
– Requires additional steps compared to the right-click method
– May not work for games that are not listed in the Start menu
Option 3. How to Create Desktop Shortcut via Shortcut Wizard
For those who prefer a more advanced method with additional customization options, using a shortcut wizard can be a great option. Follow these steps:
1. Download and install a shortcut wizard software: There are several third-party software options available online for creating custom shortcuts. Download and install the software of your choice.
2. Open the shortcut wizard: Launch the shortcut wizard software on your computer.
3. Select the game executable file: Use the shortcut wizard to locate and select the game executable file.
4. Customize shortcut properties: The shortcut wizard will allow you to customize various properties of the shortcut, such as the icon, name, and file location.
5. Generate and save the shortcut: Once you’ve customized the shortcut properties, click on the "Generate" or "Create" button to generate the shortcut file. Save the shortcut file to a location of your choice.
6. Move the shortcut to desktop: Navigate to the location where you saved the shortcut file and drag it onto your desktop.
Pros:
– Provides advanced customization options for shortcuts
– Allows you to change the shortcut’s icon and name
– Works well for users who prefer a more tailored and personalized approach
Cons:
– Requires downloading and installing additional software
– May be more time-consuming than other methods
Option 4. How to Create Desktop Shortcut via Batch File
Creating a desktop shortcut via a batch file provides a flexible and automated way to create shortcuts for multiple games at once. Here’s how:
1. Open a text editor: Launch a text editor on your computer, such as Notepad or Notepad++.
2. Create a new batch file: In the text editor, create a new file and save it with a ".bat" extension, such as "games_shortcuts.bat".
3. Enter the commands: In the batch file, enter the following commands for each game you want to create a shortcut for:
"`
@echo off
set GAME_1="C:\Path\to\Game1\Game1.exe"
set GAME_2="C:\Path\to\Game2\Game2.exe"
echo Creating shortcut for Game 1…
echo [InternetShortcut] > "%USERPROFILE%\Desktop\Game1.lnk"
echo URL=file://%GAME_1% >> "%USERPROFILE%\Desktop\Game1.lnk"
echo Creating shortcut for Game 2…
echo [InternetShortcut] > "%USERPROFILE%\Desktop\Game2.lnk"
echo URL=file://%GAME_2% >> "%USERPROFILE%\Desktop\Game2.lnk"
echo Shortcuts created successfully.
"`
4. Customize the file paths and names: Replace "C:\Path\to\GameX\GameX.exe" with the actual file paths of your games.
5. Save the batch file: Once you’ve customized the batch file, save it.
6. Run the batch file: Double-click on the batch file to run it. This will create the desktop shortcuts for your games.
Pros:
– Allows for automation and bulk creation of shortcuts
– Can be easily modified to create shortcuts for additional games
– Offers flexibility in controlling shortcut properties
Cons:
– Requires basic knowledge of batch scripting
– May require modifications for games with complex file structures
Why Can’t I Create Desktop Shortcuts for Games?
If you’re facing difficulties creating desktop shortcuts for your games, here are three alternative solutions you can consider:
1. Use the Start menu: Instead of creating desktop shortcuts, utilize the Start menu to organize and access your games. Pin your favorite games to the Start menu for quick and easy access.
2. Create a custom games folder: Create a folder on your desktop or in your Documents directory specifically for your games. Inside this folder, create shortcuts for each game, allowing you to access them all in one place.
3. Utilize a launcher application: Install a launcher application, such as Steam, Epic Games Launcher, or GOG Galaxy, which allows you to launch and organize your games from a centralized platform. These applications often provide additional features and customization options.
Implications and Recommendations
When creating desktop shortcuts for games, keep the following implications and recommendations in mind:
1. Organize your shortcuts: Create a logical folder structure or naming convention for your shortcuts to easily find and access your games.
2. Update shortcuts when necessary: If you move or reinstall a game, remember to update the associated shortcut’s file path to ensure it continues to work.
3. Regularly review and clean up shortcuts: Over time, you may accumulate outdated shortcuts. Periodically review and remove shortcuts for games you no longer play to keep your desktop clutter-free.
The Bottom Line
Creating desktop shortcuts for games in Windows 10 can greatly enhance your gaming experience by providing quick and easy access to your favorite titles. Whether you choose the right-click method, Start menu method, shortcut wizard, or batch file approach, finding the right method that suits your preferences and needs is essential. Take the time to organize your shortcuts and explore alternative solutions to further optimize your gaming setup.
5 FAQs about Creating Desktop Shortcuts for Games in Windows 10
Q1: Can I create desktop shortcuts for games that I have installed through a gaming platform like Steam?
A: Yes, you can create desktop shortcuts for games installed through gaming platforms like Steam. Locate the game’s installation folder, which is typically in the "Steam\steamapps\common" directory, and follow the method mentioned in this blog post to create the desktop shortcut.
Q2: Can I change the icon of a desktop shortcut for a game?
A: Yes, you can change the icon of a desktop shortcut for a game. Right-click on the shortcut, go to "Properties," and navigate to the "Shortcut" tab. From there, click on the "Change Icon" button and select an icon of your choice.
Q3: How do I delete a desktop shortcut for a game?
A: To delete a desktop shortcut for a game, simply right-click on the shortcut and select "Delete" or press the "Delete" key on your keyboard. Confirm the deletion when prompted.
Q4: Can I create desktop shortcuts for games on other operating systems like macOS or Linux?
A: The methods mentioned in this blog post specifically focus on creating desktop shortcuts for games in Windows 10. The process may vary for other operating systems like macOS or Linux.
Q5: Are desktop shortcuts for games compatible with multiple monitors?
A: Yes, desktop shortcuts for games are compatible with multiple monitors. You can drag and place the shortcut on any monitor, and it will function as expected.