Alex Ruben
How To Remove Games from Your Laptop and PC on Windows 11
Uninstalling games on Windows 11 might seem simple — but sometimes, they just don’t want to budge, or they leave behind a bunch of leftover files. Maybe you’re cleaning up space to install a new game or just want a tidier library. Whatever the reason, this guide walks through the way I’ve managed to get rid of games, whether from the Windows Store, Steam, or other sources. Expect to learn two main routes: using the Settings app for built-in and store games, and jumping into Steam for those downloaded through that platform. The end goal is a cleaner PC, less clutter, and maybe a little extra space to breathe.
How to Fix Uninstalling Games on Windows 11
Navigate to the Apps Settings — Your First Stop
This method works because Windows 11 keeps a list of everything installed, kinda like a big catalog in the Settings app. It applies when you’re trying to remove games that show up properly in your installed apps. Sometimes, Games installed via the Windows Store or even some third-party apps hang around stubbornly. Expect a straightforward process, but don’t be surprised if some stubborn apps need extra cleanup afterward. On a few setups, this might fail the first time, so a reboot isn’t a bad idea if things go sideways.
- Click the Start menu, then select Settings
- In the Settings window, go to Apps > Installed Apps
Identify and Uninstall the Game
Now that you’re there, finding the game can sometimes be tricky, especially if you have a huge library. Usually, you can just scroll or use the search box to locate it. If it’s not showing up, check if it’s linked to a secondary launcher like Epic, Uplay, or Origin — those aren’t part of Windows’ main list. When you find the game, click on the three dots next to it, then select Uninstall. Confirm when prompted. On some machines, it helps to restart afterwards — Windows seems to get confused sometimes and hangs onto files, especially for stubborn games.
- Click the three dots to open options
- Choose Uninstall
- Confirm the uninstallation and restart if needed
What About Steam and Other Platforms?
If you’re using Steam, the process differs a bit. For Steam games, don’t think just deleting files from the program folder works much — Steam has a built-in uninstall, and it’s cleaner. Open Steam, go to Library, right-click the game, then choose Manage > Uninstall. That should do the trick. Make sure Steam is fully closed before deleting files manually, because sometimes Steam keeps a process running that prevents full cleanup. Also, for some games, you might need to check their own uninstallers either through their folders or via control panel options.
Extra Tips & Common Pitfalls
Some tips to make this less painful: ensure you’re logged in with admin rights — Windows can be weird about permission issues. Always close the game before trying to uninstall, especially if it’s running in the background. And if uninstalling fails because files are still in use, a quick reboot usually clears up lockups. Also, for stubborn leftovers, tools like Winhance or CCleaner can help tidy up leftover registry entries and files. Just be cautious and back up if needed; Windows isn’t always gentle about cleanup.
Wrap-up
Uninstalling games on Windows 11 is pretty straightforward once you get the hang of it. The main takeaway: use the Settings app for most installs, but don’t forget about the different platforms like Steam or Epic Games Launcher if applicable. Sometimes, especially with stubborn games or leftovers, a restart or third-party cleanup tool makes the difference. Keep an eye on permissions and close the game before uninstalling — that’s the biggest hurdle, honestly. Once you get used to it, it’s just a few clicks and some patience.
Summary
- Use Settings > Apps > Installed Apps for built-in or store games.
- Locate the game, click three dots, and pick Uninstall.
- For Steam, right-click in your Library and choose Manage > Uninstall.
- Restart your PC if uninstalling gets hung up.
- Tools like CCleaner or Winhance can help clear leftover files and registry entries.
Fingers crossed this helps
Getting rid of games that refuse to disappear can be annoying, but with the right approach, it’s doable. Just expect a bit of trial and error — Windows has its quirks, and sometimes it’s all about patience. Good luck cleaning up that game library!