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DirectPlay Windows 10 Issues: Fix Them With These 4 Methods
First install the DirectPlay feature
4 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
Let us consider DirectPlay in Windows 10.
But first, what is DirectPlay? DirectPlay is an antiquated API library component of earlierDirectX versions. However, Microsoft sidelined DirectPlay in favor ofGames for Windows Live. As DirectPlay is obsolete, it’s no longer required to update Windows games.
However, DirectPlay is still essential to rungames that predate 2008in Windows 10. Consequently, some older games don’t run without DirectPlay.
If a game or app needs DirectPlay, a window opens statingAn app on your PC needs the following Windows featureDirectPlay.
Are you getting that DirectPlay error in Windows 10? If so, this is how you can enable DirectPlay.
What causes DirectPlay issues?
Like many other computer-related issues, this problem may be caused by varying elements. At the top of this list, we have the following:
With these triggers in mind, we will introduce you to some good solutions.
How can I fix DirectPlay problems on Windows 10?
1. Installing DirectPlay
2. Adjust your antivirus software
Some users have stated that they get an error code 0x80073701 when attempting to install DirectPlay. Thus, they can’t install DirectPlay as outlined above.
If that’s the case, antivirus software might be blocking DirectPlay. First, try temporarily switching your antivirus software off, which you can usually do via antivirus utilities’ system tray icon context menus.
However, keep in mind that antivirus developers have strived to comply with the requirements of various activity modes users might need in the past years. Consequently, a lot of antivirus tools nowadays come with gaming compatibility modes.
So if you need to change your antivirus for more valuable gaming modes, we recommend the mosteffective antivirus for Windows 10now that will adjust your gameplay.
3. Run the game in Compatibility Mode
The Compatibility mode setting can come in handy for running older games in Windows. It will enable the game to utilize settings from a previous Windows OS.
4. Use the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter
So that’s how you can enable DirectPlay in Windows 10 and select the Compatibility mode setting to kick-start games that predate the more recent Windows platforms.
You might also need to enable DirectPlay for some retro game emulators.
If you have any more questions, feel free to leave them in the comments section below, and we’ll be sure to take a look.
More about the topics:DirectX,pc games,windows 10
Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
Matthew is a freelancer who has produced a variety of articles on various topics related to technology. His main focus is the Windows OS and all the things surrounding it.
He is passionate about the tech world, always staying up-to-date with the latest and greatest. With an analytical view, he likes problem-solving, focusing on errors and their causes.
In his free time, he likes to read and write about history and tries to always develop new skills.
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Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
He is passionate about everything surrounding Microsoft’s OS, focusing on troubleshooting guides & tips for everyday problems.
