Many Steam users encounter the frustrating issue of their games launching on the incorrect monitor. This can be especially annoying if you have a multi-monitor setup with different resolutions or aspect ratios. Luckily, there are several ways to fix this problem, ranging from simple in-game settings adjustments to more involved system-level tweaks. This guide will walk you through the most effective solutions.
Why is My Steam Game Launching on the Wrong Monitor?
Before diving into solutions, it's helpful to understand why this might be happening. Several factors can contribute to this issue:
- Default Display Settings: Your operating system might be defaulting to a specific monitor for application launches, regardless of your preferences.
- Game-Specific Settings: Some games have their own display settings that override your system's preferences.
- Outdated Graphics Drivers: Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers can interfere with proper monitor detection and assignment.
- Conflicting Software: Other applications or software might be interfering with your display settings.
- Steam's Launch Options: Steam's launch options for individual games might be incorrectly configured.
How to Fix Steam Games Opening on the Wrong Monitor
Let's tackle the solutions, starting with the simplest and progressing to more advanced techniques.
1. Check Your Windows Display Settings
This is the first and often the most effective solution. Windows controls which monitor is considered your primary display. Ensure your primary display is the one you want your games to launch on:
- Right-click on your desktop and select "Display settings."
- Under "Multiple displays," choose the monitor you want as your primary display. You might need to rearrange the monitors to reflect their physical arrangement if they are not listed correctly.
- Click "Keep changes."
2. Adjust In-Game Display Settings
Many games have their own in-game settings that allow you to select the display monitor. Check your game's video or display settings for an option to choose your desired monitor. The wording may vary (e.g., "Display," "Monitor," "Output Device"). Experiment with different options if necessary.
3. Update Your Graphics Drivers
Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers are a common culprit. Updating them can resolve numerous display issues:
- Nvidia: Go to the Nvidia website, download the latest driver for your specific graphics card model, and install it.
- AMD: Visit the AMD website and follow a similar process as for Nvidia.
- Intel: Intel's integrated graphics drivers are usually updated through Windows Update. Check for updates there.
4. Check Steam Launch Options
Steam allows you to add launch options to individual games. Incorrect launch options might force the game to launch on a specific monitor.
- Right-click on the game in your Steam library.
- Select "Properties."
- Go to the "General" tab and look at the "Launch Options" field.
- If there are any launch options related to the display (e.g.,
-windowed,-width,-height), remove them and try launching the game.
5. Reinstall Your Graphics Drivers (Advanced)
If updating your drivers doesn't work, a complete reinstall might be necessary. Completely uninstall your current drivers before installing the new ones from the manufacturer's website. Use the manufacturer's provided uninstaller for a cleaner removal.
6. Run Steam as Administrator (Temporary Solution)
This is more of a workaround than a true solution, but running Steam as administrator might help in some cases. Right-click the Steam application, select "Properties," and then the "Compatibility" tab. Check the box that says "Run this program as an administrator."
7. Check for Conflicting Software (Advanced)
Some applications can interfere with display settings. If you recently installed new software, try temporarily uninstalling it to see if it resolves the issue.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I identify which monitor is which in Windows settings?
Windows usually assigns numbers or labels (e.g., "Display 1," "Display 2") to your monitors. You can physically identify them by their position relative to your computer. Experiment with the settings to see which one corresponds to your desired display.
Why does my game still launch on the wrong monitor even after changing my primary display?
Some games ignore the primary display setting and rely on their internal settings. Ensure you also check the game's in-game video or display options to select the correct monitor.
My game launches in windowed mode on the wrong monitor. How can I fix this?
First, try switching the primary display. Then, check the game's in-game video options. The "fullscreen" or "windowed mode" settings might be preventing it from launching on the desired display. Also, review the Steam launch options, as mentioned above.
By following these steps, you should be able to get your Steam games launching on the correct monitor and enjoy a smoother gaming experience. Remember to restart your computer after making significant changes to your system settings.
